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The songs on Street Gospels infuse reggae with enough indie pop character to allow each song to stand out from the others while staying true to their reggae base. Canada’s Bedouin Soundclash take what the English Beat started a few decades back and rejuvenate it with thoughtful pop hooks and distinctive vocals. Singer Jay Malinowski’s voice brings to mind that of Perry Farrell, but a little bit less range.

Tracks such as Gunships and Midnight Rocker can easily be mistaken for Sandinista-era Clash. The a capella harmonies on Hush make the track stand out among the rest of the album’s dance-inspiring songs. The second track, Walls Fall Down, also stands out for just the opposite reason. Its choruses include the best pop hooks of the album and quite possibly Street Gospels’ greatest accomplishment.

Bedouin Soundclash keeps their music interesting by injecting variety into their songs. Every song sounds different, but keeps the reggae feel that gives them their definitive sound. Not many bands since the English Beat or the Clash have succeeded in taking reggae onto a pop rock stage. Bedouin Soundclash do a fine job combining their diverse influences and pushing themselves to let their music evolve.