With diverse arrangements, sparse structures, and soulful Bristol moods, Life Is ... combines Smith & Mighty perennial reggae-rich style with a new emphasis on songs and substance. Decidedly mellow, the record's best tracks, like the dubbed-out "Life Has a Way" and "Live and Learn," or the interstellar space jazz of "Flash of Joy," succeed as pure songs, like early Massive Attack with a d'n'b beat. "I Saw You" hints at darkstep, while S&M adopt a Missy Elliot freak beat feel on "Maybe It's Me" and perform a luminous Kraftwerk imitation with "Sea." Expansive, atmospheric, and cocksurely aloof, these seminal old-schoolers rely on experience to make the music move on Life Is ... while exploring a new approach that's not your father's Smith & Mighty. --Ken Micallef