Christopher Grant (left) and Dahlia Henry of Tru Essence. - Contributed photos

Veteran British dancehall producers Leroy (Mafia) and David (Fluxy) Heywood have given the thumbs up to former Rising Star contestants Tru Essence as the singing duo goes in search of a successful recording career.

Tru Essence comprises Christopher Grant and Dahlia Henry, who were serious contenders in season five of the Digicel Rising Stars competition. During the contest, they gave a memorable performance of Are You Coming over Tonight but fell short of their ambitions of winning, even though they were described by observers as being talented and authentic.

The long-standing reggae producers agree.

Leroy and David have been coming to Jamaica for more than 20 years and have worked with some of Jamaica's best singers and entertainers including Beres Hammond, Luciano, Maxi Priest, Jimmy Riley, Everton Blender and George Nooks. They believe the up-and-coming Jamaican duo has what it takes to make a name for themselves, locally and internationally.

Real deal

During their most recent trip to the island, Leroy spoke about the work he and his brother did with Tru Essence on two songs at Tree Top Studio, and, based on the experience, they believe the duo is the real deal.

"They're very good," said Leroy. "They have good harmony, good melodies and good lyrics."

Leroy also spoke briefly about the fact that Tru Essence offers a different sound and feel from traditional local acts. Their music is more about love and harmony and does not descend into the darker side of the music that is violent and, in many instances, overly sexual. "There is always a place for good reggae music," he pointed out.

One of the songs that they worked on with Tru Essence, Leroy revealed, will soon be released, and he believes it will do well.

Tru Essence was among several upcoming acts the producers worked with on their recent trip. Others included Tia Marie and Lenya Wilks. But, they also worked with some veterans as well, including their long-time friend Hammond, Bobby Digital as well as several local studios, including Penthouse Records.

Economic crisis

They also found time to produce for American crooner, Jimmy Cozier, who has been dabbling with reggae sounds in recent times. "He came down to work on a couple of reggae songs," Leroy said of Cozier.

Despite the month-long work they put in locally, Leroy revealed that the economic crisis is taking a toll on the music industry. "Things are slow, man," he said, adding that whenever he and his brother return to Jamaica he hopes "things would have picked up significantly."

British producers David (left) and Leroy Heywood.