Both commercially and creatively,
Hot Shot was a tough act to follow. That 2000 release boasted some of
Shaggy's best work (including the naughty smash "It Wasn't Me"), and it sold an impressive ten million units internationally. So when the time came to record a follow-up,
Shaggy no doubt felt the sort of pressure that
Janet Jackson felt when she recorded a follow-up to
Control. This October 2002 release is
Shaggy's first album of new material since
Hot Shot, although MCA did release an album of
Shaggy remixes in early 2002. And even though
Lucky Day isn't quite in a class with
Hot Shot, it is still an enjoyable follow-up. The album is full of the type of congenial, good-natured crossover dancehall that
Shaggy is best known for; those who don't mind the fact that
Shaggy is very much a crossover artist won't be disappointed to learn that infectious ditties like "Get My Party On" (which boasts a cameo by guest
Chaka Khan) and "Shake Shake Shake" have a lot of pop and urban contemporary appeal. But
Lucky Day doesn't come across as formulaic, and
Shaggy -- for all his commercial moves -- isn't afraid to offer some surprises. "Hey Sexy Lady" successfully fuses dancehall and funk with Spanish flamenco; it's an unlikely combination, but one that works. And
Shaggy, who specializes in lighthearted fun, brings a surprisingly serious tone to "Lost" (a warning against the dangers of crime and street life) and "Walking in My Shoes" (which is about persevering despite challenges and adversity). Although not
Shaggy's most essential album,
Lucky Day is a rewarding effort that takes its share of chances -- both musically and lyrically. ~ Alex Henderson