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Home , Alborosie, Alison Hinds, Al Campbell, Augustus Pablo, Benji Webbe, Big Youth

MAGAZINE #9 - June 2011

Sizzla INTERVIEW

Kemar Flava McGregor Beth Lesser Reality Chant Film Mo'Kalamity Festival 2011

Best of the Best - Miami Reggae Festival - Upper Park Reggae Festival Reggae 4 Japan - UCLA Reggae Festival - Portraits of Rural United Reggae Magazine #9 - June 2011 Want to read United Reggae as a paper magazine? Now you can... In addition to the latest United Reggae news, views and videos online each month you can now enjoy a free pdf version packed with most of United Reggae content from the last month. SUMMARY 1/ NEWS

2/ INTERVIEWS • Beth Lesser 20 • Gabriel Calcott from Reality Chant 22 • Gappy Ranks 26 • Mo’Kalamity 30 • 33 • Alborosie 38 • Kemar Flava McGregor 41 3/ REVIEWS • The Fittest by 46 • Thanks and Praise by Gappy Ranks 47 • Chino’s Debut 48 • ’s Most Wanted 49 • Luciano - Rub-A-Dub Market 50 • The Return of Scracth 51 • Sizzla - The Scriptures 52 • Presents Warn The Nation 54 • Ziggi Recado 55

4/ ARTICLES • , Tony Roots and Christine Miller in 56 • Best of the Best 2011 58 • Reggae 4 Japan 60 • UCLA Jazz Reggae Festival 2011 62 • Upper Park Reggae Festival 64 • Reggae Film Festival 66 5/ PHOTOS • Black Roots, Mason, Mo’Kalamity and Informative Historyman in Paris 71 • Miami Reggae Festival 2011 72 • Portraits of Rural Jamaica 74 • , and Rootz Underground Mash it up in Kingston 77

All the articles in this magazine were previously published online on http://unitedreggae.com. This magazine is free for download at http://unitedreggae.com/magazine/. Not for resale. United Reggae. All Rights Reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Dub Store Sound Dub Store Records: LP/CD503) efforts from the likes of Sizzla leases the quality and atten- Zojak Worldwide has deliv- but never made the final cut. Kalonji, Perfect or Dutch song- tion to detail is excellent and ered the sterling City Streetz Inc Release A stress, Mischu Laikah, will. these two releases just further from Dynasty Re- Selection Of The fourth single features un- enhance that reputation. cords and Twelve 9 Records Classic known vocal group Monarchs IrieVibrations’ Sweet Baby ------to digital outlets everywhere & Drumbago All Stars with All Riddim Selection is set to and it is currently available. ------Of Me on the A-side and Sneer hit digital stores around The City Streetz Dub Store Sound Inc, the of- Towners a previously the world on June 17th. Riddim ------ficial Studio One agency out unreleased version of You Say Sierra Nevada of Japan is releasing a selec------Me Say on the flip. Then last Following up on a very impres- tion of 7” vynil reissues on the but by no means least is the Federal Records’ Kentone label sive release of the Alive Rid- Festival 2011, final single featuring the clas- dim earlier in 2011, the flam- that was one of the greatest sic male/female duo Stranger Roots For The Ska production houses in the The based producer ing Dynasty Records quickly & Patsy with Word Is Wind works as the in-house engi- returns with an arguably just People mid 60’s. This material is taken backed by and a from Ska’s heyday and features neer at Rock A Shacka, plus as bright set, the City Streetz ------very smooth and soulful Dobby he is responsible for all of the Riddim. Despite its title, the rare and previously unreleased Dobson with Cry Another Cry. Two things you should know material. The first of these col- labels artwork, as well as edit- riddim, which was done in con- about Northern California’s lectable 7’s is the double A-sid------ing the weekly Pirate’s Choice junction with the very strong Sierra Nevada World Music ed single from The Sweet podcasts. Twelve 9 Records [Wire Waist, Festival: The three-day ticket & Selected Group titled Free Baby Riddim Flare, Spider Wed ] is a fantastic deal and unique Form and Skalvouvia. Both The second release is a lim- isn’t the rough and tough vibed acts make it worth attending songs are bright mid-tempo in------ited edition 7” vinyl that sees composition that you might all three days. Sierra Nevada strumental tracks with a jazzy Cool things are going on at the Rock A Shacka Norma Fraser’s ‘Every Body’ be expecting, instead, it is (or SNWMF as it’s commonly feel and very strong well reputed IrieVibrations Re- make an appearance on this one sweetly built piece which known) has evolved into one and alto saxophone solos over cords in 2011 and they’ve just Presents... format for the first time. Norma features a healthy mix of so- of California -- if not America’s Ernie’s industrious lead . gotten a bit sweeter. Besides ------first made a name for herself in cial commentaries, spirtiual – most unique and anticipat- a big forthcoming project from Japanese label Rock A Shacka 1961 when she duetted on the sets and even Lover’s Rock. ed reggae and international Next up are vocal group the Reggae legend, Luciano, in the have recently brought out two Jamaican chart topper ‘We’ll Be music showcases. The now Sharks (also spelled Sheiks) form of the ‘Rub A Dub Mar- new releases for your listening Lovers’ with Lord Creator. She Taking top honours on these 17-year old festival features with a previously unreleased ket’ album, as well as reported pleasure. First up is a 12” vi- later signed for streetz is definitely Sizzla camping accommodations early acoustic cut You Made Me pieces from both nyl featuring Carlton Manning, where she recorded a num- Kalonji with Nah Go Work in addition to two live music Warm on the A-side while the and Konshens, the Austrian probably best known as Carl- ber of singles through into the and also providing stellar stages and a sound system DJ B-side is occupied by the more based imprint is also pushing ton from Carlton & the Shoes, Rock Steady and Early Reggae tunes are the likes of Lutan area. Surrounded by the lush up-beat original cut. an album for their Sweet Baby but who was also the mentor of eras. Fyah, Sophia Squire, Delly green Mendocino foothills and Riddim. This laid back, pre- the popular vocal harmony trio Ranx, , Liquid close to a killer craft brew- Eric “Monty” Morris sings suf- dominately Roots set proves . The flip of this single is by one [big big tune] and others. ery, SNWMF combines local ferers’ protest song, Blackman to be quietly infectious and of Jamaica’s best known bands charm with exceptional music. Ska, which for the time was should find a very fine audi- Here he applies his sweet haunt- The Skatalites with ‘Freedom rather unusual in that it broke ence amongst Reggae fans, ing voice to the contemporary, Sound’ possibly one of the The organizers put a premium away from the usual songs both initiated and new alike. soulful, R&B tinged strongest ska instrumentals on appealing to a variety of about love, but he’s back in number ‘Crazy Moment’ on the ever despite it’s lack of trom- fans – from college kids to ded- that theme on the B-side for A Certainly tapping names such A-side, while dub Poet Patrick bone melody which suggests icated roots aficionados -- with Spot In My Heart For You. Both as the aforementioned Lu- Davis brings a deep spiritual- that this may have been record- acts this year like Rebelution, of these tracks have never been ciano, Anthony B and Konshens ity to the same riddim for the ed during one of Don Drum- I-Octane and Pablo Moses. Al- previously released and were [alongside Delus] to voice the Jah proclamation ‘Hail H.I.M’. mond’s stints at Bellevue men- though, not quite as old or well- reportedly recorded for the composition will only help mat- Rounding things off on the B- tal asylum. known as its Nor Cal contem- 1965 various artist album ‘Ja- ters and if that does quite get side is a dub from multifaceted porary , maican Skarama’ (reissued by your attention, then perhaps Ruv Bytes (Takuto Kuratani). As with all Rock A Shacka re- SNWMF has carved out it’s own the Anderson Valley Brewing Due for release on 16th of June, John Coltrane to Chernobyl and instrumentals – built on eight legacy with previous years’ ap- Company, one of America’s via Soul Jazz records, is a vari- tells the tale of what digital riddims from BDF (Basque Dub pearances by , Jah best microbrewers. Three-day ous 2CD / vinyl album compi- music will be in the future, fea- Foundation). Most riddims are Shaka, , Big , advance-purchase tickets are lation titled ‘Invasion Of The turing , Steely and relicks of classics such as Der- Misty In Roots, The Ethiopi- only $150 while single-day tick- Mysteron Killer Sounds’. The Clevie, Jammy, Jazzbo, along rick Harriott’s pulsating To- ans and other heavyweights. ets are between $60-70. Camp- album, though not entirely a with Alien Sound Lord Abduc- night, ’s haunting The 2011 line-up is equally as ing is only available to 3-day true reggae album it does fea- tors, Aural Freedom Fighters Slaving and Studio One’s Far appealing with , ticket holders for an additional ture music from some of the and Digi-Dub Voyagers. East or the rolling . Taj Weekes, on $60. Camping is recommended radical, pioneering, electronic, day one, , Romain in order to enjoy the late-night scientific, dub producers of The whole thing sounds very The compilation is a minor Virgo and legends sound system sessions, which the Jamaican digital interesting and exciting and I’m chord celebration in a founda- on the second day, often feature surprise artist revolution such as , sure ‘Invasion of the Killer Mys- tion style. This is roots music while day three features Antho- appearances. According to it’s Steely and Clevie, , teron Sounds’ will be a must for as it was meant to be. Just lis- ny B, and website, SNWMF’s mission is , King Tubby, any fan of Digital, Dancehall, Heartical Story ten to Lone Ranger in Original among many to “promote music with a mes- and Firehouse Crew and Dub, so if you’d like to pre------Style. It’s the chatting Ranger others. sage of peace, unity and broth- along with electronic and fu- order the album to be sure of Heartical is originally a French with his ribbiting and oinking erhood, which transcends the turist artists of today Harmon- getting all the goodies go here. sound that started in 1999, against the riddim led by an SNWMF solicits performer ide- divisions of race and culture.” ic 313, Diplo, Roots Manuva, ------and has since played all over apocalyptic organ. as via their active user “Pho- With values like these along South Rakkas Crew and The the globe. They have clashed rum” where a variety of reg- with active fan input it’s no Bug, who in collaboration with Wa Wood against, and juggled with, Now available as digital down- gae rumors, events, trends wonder that this festival gets Stuart Baker of Soul Jazz Re- by Keke I some of the biggest sounds load and on CD on June 6th. and tunes are also discussed better every year. cords has compiled this album. ------in Europe and Jamaica, includ- and debated. “We rely heav- The infectious and ing from Jamaica, ‘Heartical Story’ shows that ily on what our attendees have Sierra Nevada World Music These new digital producers bawdy lyrics of , the first Massive B from the U.S. and none of these foundational to say about our festival each Festival 2011, June 17th, 18th & have taken inspiration from Jamaican recorded music, have Supersonic from . artists have lost their flow. year in an effort to improve on 19th, 2011, Mendocino County these digital styles that ex- enjoyed a revival of late thanks They sound just as fresh in the our creation from the year be- Fairgrounds, Boonville, Califor- ploded out of Kingston in the to the likes of the Jolly Boys In 2001 the crew launched 2000’s as they did in the 70’s fore,” says festival promoter nia. http://www.snwmf.com. 1980s and blended them to and the Blue Light Mento band. their label aimed at releas- and 80’s. Warren Smith. “[We] take care------create work that is contem- ing old school roots music. To ------ful note as to who they want to porary, whether it is , Now has produced date over 50 titles have been Reggae Summer see grace our stage the next acid, hip-hop, electronic but a modern mento and calypso released on vinyl and digital year.” Smith notes that this can still be linked back to influenced track with former download. Fest 2011 year’s presentation is accented what at the time was consid- protégé Keke I for ------by music from across different ered to be the revolutionary Sugashak Records. As a ten year celebration The Summer Reggae Fest at decades and eras. “Between computer-based sounds that Heartical is now set to put out Fort St-Père in Brittany near St. The Cables and The Jolly Boys, were coming out of Jamaica. Titled Wa Wood it tells a simi- its first official compilation Malo, first took place and Horace Andy, larly ribald tale of female self- featuring an impressive line over one night in 2008 and has Rebelution and Collie Buddz, The 2CD initial release comes amusement to the 1970s mento of artists. Most of them reg- now grown, following the suc- the 18th annual Sierra Nevada in bespoke, limited edition, revivalist Stanley Beckford’s gae legends like Johnny Os- cess of last year, so that it is World Music Festival will fea- card box packaging while the Soldering. Modern beats meet bourne, and the late held over two days. ture three generations of the deluxe gatefold double album the traditional mento banjo Sugar Minott and Alton Ellis, best in reggae music,” said editions come on heavy weight and Fraser’s sax imitating a who sings Peaceful Valley over This year’s event will take place Smith. vinyl. Both editions also come clarinet. the Ministerio del Dub riddim, on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th Invasion Of with a specially commissioned which must have been one of July and offers a varied interna- SNWMF takes place at the Men- The Mysteron graphic science-fiction novel by Wa Wood is out now and an al- his last recordings. tional line up across two stag- docino County Fairgrounds, Killer Sounds the Italian comic book designer bum is rumoured to be in the es. The Friday night will feature two hours north of San Fran- Paolo Parisi, whose books have ‘Heartical Story’ compiles 20 main stage performances from cisco in Boonville, home to ------included diverse subjects from works. ------tunes – 17 vocals and three Jamaican stars Horace Andy and plus ------gae from the disbandment of headliner the Italian born Albo- vocalist ’s previ- rosie. The sound system stage Dour Festival ous band, has been is set to offer the UK’s Chan- 2011 going since 1999. nel One and Martin Campbell ------along with French systems OBF The Dour Festival held in Wal- Saturday sees veterans Johnny and Legal Shot and a special lonia, Belgium from the 14th to Clarke and Horace Andy joined appearance from Shinehead. 17th July 2011 is one Europe’s by recently reformed Coven- premier music festivals and try (UK), 2-Tone legends The Saturday sees , As- last year saw more than 125000 Selecter as well as the Bel- wad, Diana Rutherford and Da- people pass through its gates. gium artist Wahwahsda, who vid Rodigan taking to the main combines reggae with hip hop stage, accompanied by an im- Its all encompassing musical while applying freestyle lyr------pressive team of artists on the diversity, across seven stages ics of, consciousness with Bonafide sound sytem stage consisting is similar to that of the world comedy, plus Percubaba, from Riddim of Johnny Clarke, Al Campbell, famous in Rennes, France. Dancehall originators U-Brown England and in 2009 it received ------and Echo Minott plus the tal- the award for best European On Sunday it’s the turn of Tar- Late last year French label and ented Scottish female vocalist festival in the intermediate cat- rus Riley, Anthony B, Israel Vi- backing band Dub Akom put Soom T and more from Shine- egory where it was competing bration and plus out the powerful Weak by Kon- head. against the likes of Bilbao BBK French outfit O.B.F Dub Sound shens on the Bonafide riddim. Live (Espagne), Coke Live Mu- System, DJ Hugo Freegow from They must have got some great Tickets are priced at 26€ for the sic Festival (), Couleur Liège, Belgium and Kingston’s response, because now they Friday, 30€ for the Saturday or Café (Belgium), Melt! Festival Busy Signal & HI Voltage Band. have decided to release a Bon- 52€ for both. Included in this is popular tour stop from some The song will be available digi- (Germany), Paleo Festival Nyon Busy is one of a new breed of afide one riddim album with reserved camping for festival- of the music’s premier acts. tally soon and 100% of the pro- (), Pinkpop Classic dancehall artists and a mem- some major singers and sing- goers, with toilets and water Besides tunes from the likes ceeds will go to benefit those (), ber of The Alliance, founded jays from the Caribbean, points. There is also a Festival of Gappy Ranks, there’s also affected by the earthquake, via (Bulgariia), Taubertal-Festival by one of his heroes, Bounty and Europe. The album fea- Village with bar, Caribbean res- Killer. He also has 3 studio al- tures pounding cuts from usual been a very large concert and the Japanese Red Cross. (Germany) and TMobile INmu- taurant, vinyl and CD stands as other issues as well. Japanese sic Festival (Croatia). bums behind him since his ini- suspects such as , well as clothing. label, Diamond Edge Records ------tial success with ‘Step Out’ in , Pressure and Natty is also doing its best to bridge Reggaeville There is a strong reggae pres- 2005 as well as a whole host of King. But Dub Akom has also Site opens on Friday, 8th July at the gap as they’re now releas- presents ence this year with Friday night concerts, both in Jamaica and voiced some lesser known art- 12 am and closes Sunday, 10th ing a jam packed single featur- featuring performances from internationally. ists, and all of these nearly out- July at 12pm. ing some of the biggest names Festiville 2011 Dutch sound system Forward shine the wider known ones. ------in the genre. ------Fever with Leah Rosier along Dour has a large camping Bahamas-based singer Ricardo We Must Online magazine Reggaeville with UK sound systems King ground, available from the Clarke is in fine form with his We Must Rise Again features has launched Festiville 2011: Midas Sound, Blood Shanti & 13th July, with plenty of ameni- gospel-tinged singing style. Rise Again , Ghost, G-Whizz, Du- a digital magazine focusing on The Shanti Ites featuring Em- ties including WC, showers, South African Jahnett Tafari is ane Stephenson, , European summer festivals. manuel I Joseph and Conscious running water, cooking areas, equally impressive. The album ------sanitary areas plus a bakery, The Reggae community defi- , , As well as the lowdown on over Sounds with a collective of features 15 vocal outings and shops, bars and all other types nitely has been quick to aid and Junior X, Anthony Que, Ginjah, 70 different events it features Dougie Conscious aka Dougie one instrumental. All of these of vendors that can usually be observe the tragic earthquake Chevaughn and Bushman who interviews including Gentle- Wardrop, Sandeeno, Christine of the highest quality. found at these events. If you in Japan on March 1, which is came together to sing the Nor- man, Harrison Stafford and Miller, Wayne Mc Arthur & Af- have eclectic musical tastes or only fitting as the country has, ris Webb [of Third World] pro- Ziggy and Stephen Marley, as rikan Simba. There is also an The Bonafide one riddim album just fancy something different particularly as of late, become duced track for the people of well as 20 album reviews and appearance from Welsh “ hit the streets as digital down- then this could be the festival a hotbed of fans of the greatest Tohoku, Japan. photo spreads. metal” band , whose load on June 7th and as CD on music in the world and a very blend of metal, punk, and reg- for you. June 20th. Garance with the likes of Mafia & Fluxy, , new and old there is something for all and Festival 2011 , Michael Prophet, alike are sure to find something when you get 40 tracks for just , Earl 16 and Caple- to enjoy within. £4.99 are a great value way to Final Line Up ton. Here though he will be on ------supplement your collection or ------stage with Prince Livijah, who collect all these songs if you Along with the addition of The has worked with host of labels New Genre haven’t done so before. Abyssinians, , Tony and sound systems but is now Based ------Rebel plus & Sly & at Reality Shock, where he is 2CD Series From New Strange Robbie, announced soon after preparing an album. we originally brought you news ------Trojan Things of the Garance Reggae Festival The Jah Army ------from Irie Ites another host of new acts have Riddim A few years ago ------been confirmed to appear at brought out the box set series Veteran French label and pro- the French event which takes ------that collated many of their past duction crew Irie Ites has re- place from 27th till 30th July The latest release from Ghetto releases and grouped them cently put out four new cuts on 2011 in Bagnols-sur-Cèze. Youths International, the Jah into Ska, Rocksteady, Roots, their bouncy Strange Things Army Riddim, is not only likely Dub etc. well now they are do- Hip-Hop riddim. The original These additional acts are, on to be one of the bigger compo- ing it again with the launch of version was produced by Phil the Wednesday night in Dub sitions of 2011, but it’s easily a new genre-based 2CD series, Pratt and had John Holt on vo- Station Corner Swiss based one of the most interesting as though thankfully not pigeon cals. outfit Lion Youth who have well. Of course, being a bite holing some into , been influenced by the Chan- from the Marley clan, it’s going and even reg- Irie Ites first version was issued nel One Sound System, Jah to get a bit of an extra shine, gae sets, that will feature the in late 2009 and was soon fol- Shaka and Aba Shanti I plus but in this case, it doesn’t need very best in Jamaican sounds lowed by a hip-hop . Both French crew Steppin Forward the help at all. The composi- from the past half-century. versions were voiced by art- and fellow country man the DJ, tion is actually a reanimation ists such as , Pres- composer T.i.T. who is grow- of the classic General Peniten- Many of the songs drawn from sure and veteran deejay . ing something of reputation in tiary Riddim and it’s blessed both the Trojan and Island cat- Now Irie Ites has voiced Sizzla the dub community with his by a tune from the Marleys, alogues will have been avail- and French singjay Ilements on experimentation of mixing psy- Stephen & Damian who link up able on these past box sets or Strange Things Hip-Hop and chedelic and dub for the title track alongside the on other compilation releas- also remixed Lutan Fyah’s Work which has led to his work being infamous , which es, though Trojan do say that it Out and ’s wicked played by the likes of Iration also features prominently on some recordings are making ganja anthem Bun di Ganja. Steppas, Blackboard Jungle the former’s recent album, their CD debuts, but whatever and LFO. Thursday will see the ‘Revelation Pt. 1: The Root of your taste in Jamaican music The new cuts now are available arrival of on the Life’. whether it be Mento and R&B on vinyl and soon on digital Main Stage along with the UK pearance of “crossover” sen- is his cousin Protoje, who re- or Roots through to Ragga platforms. artist Natty who released the sation Gyptian. Also on the bill leased the much lauded album But that’s not all - That loaded EP ‘Things I’ve Done’ last year. that night and flying the flag ‘The Seven Year Itch’, last year. track is joined by efforts from for the Virgin Islands scene is the likes of Chris Ellis [son of Junior Kelly and the Senega- Pressure, who will hopefully be Completing the list of new Alton], , , lese performer Kayamanga, showcasing some of his new acts appearing at the festival Marley regular, , who communicates his vision material from his forthcoming is one of the most prolific en- even Pressure Busspipe and of Africa and its richness of album with producer Don Cor- gineers and producers out of others. culture and traditions through leon due out some time in the England Gussie P, who will be a gallery of poetic verse are autumn. Another artist appear- on at Dub Station Corner. His The Jah Army Riddim is up and added to the roster on Friday, ing on Saturday who has also career started in the early ‘80s available for your digital con- while Saturday sees the ap- tasted success with Corleon and in that time he has worked sumption right now. Fans of Listen is a soul-drenched one out of Guadeloupe, on previous Rebel. probably follow in the same reggae and when drop whereas Real Reggae Mu- hit single Pagan’s Eyes. Also, path. their ninth studio album, ‘Live sic is a pure summer banger the album features production SherKhan and Diana Ruther- as One’, received the hugely reminiscent of Reggae From the from the esteemed Uprising ford have been working to- The album contains five vocals coveted ‘Best Dub Album’ at Ghetto with its gospel chorus. Roots Band. gether for five years, and one followed by five dub versions. the Jamaican Reggae Gram- of the earliest titles was the The production is handled by mys. Brina recently opened for The Ras Zacharri’s new album, ‘New R&B-flavored duet with Erup, multi-faceted musician Tim and The Jolly Horizon’ is in stores, digital and You Mean the World to Me. Baumgarten. During the bands past twenty Boys on their UK tours. And her physical right now, courtesy of odd years they have toured upcoming debut album fea- Shem Ha Boreh Records. Since then she has voiced rid- The pair started working to- extensively taking them from tures a stellar line-up of musi- dims such as Box Guitar and gether in 2008 and the first the UK to the USA and across cians – Sly Dunbar, Toots Hib- Sufferah as well as a single releases were the wicked Sit n Asia, South America and back bert, Michael “Ibo” Cooper, with Sizzla titled A New Day. Wonda and Girl Don’t Trust the through Europe helping them Dean Fraser and Nambo Robin- These three, along with 13 World 7” singles. The former is to become one of the most son just to name a few. more, are available on ‘Ghetto also available on the ‘Love Jah popular live dub acts in the Princess’ that hit the streets in More’ showcase album. world today. Brina’s powerful voice and late June. style can be compared to the ------‘Firm in Jah’ will be available on If you want to catch the queen of reggae Marcia Grif- CD, vinyl and digital download Train live experience you can fiths, so be sure to out on July 1st. catch them at the following ------her single on a download plat------venues throughout the UK and Listen to Brina form near you. Zion Train between now and Octo------ber. ------Dub ------New Horizon Diana Revolutionaries by Ras Zacharri Rutherford J Boog EP is a Ghetto ------Set for release on the 16th of J Boog really made a name for Shem Ha Boreh Records deliv- Princess June is a 2CD “Best Of” col- himself with last year’s Let’s ers the latest and sophomore ------lection from one of the UK’s Do it Again on Don Corleon’s album from the very interest- Jamaican singer Diana Ruther- leading reggae influenced acts Major riddim. Since then he ing Ras Zacharri, ‘New Hori- ford has in the last years made Firm In Jah Zion Train. The album has been has voiced tunes for French zon’, who broke out in 2009 a name for herself with some by Slimmah compiled by lifelong Zion col- duo Bost & Bim among others. with the surprising hit album strong titles for French – nowa- Sound and leagues Maken of Warsaw and ‘Herbs Man’ which did more days resident in Jamaica – pro- Les Earthdoctor of Wales, with These two tunes along with than a little damage and now ducer SherKhan, the man be- Lyrical Benjie the bands full cooperation and six other are collected on the Brina is an upcoming female label and artist are trying to hind Perfect’s stunning album ------along with many of their hits brand new J Boog EP, titled EP, reggae singer from Jamaica, duplicate their initial successes ‘French Connection’. She has Roots Tribe Records has an- will include vinyl-only rarities available as digital download. who recently put out her debut and from the quality of the new also been produced by vet- nounced its 10th release. It’s a and a never before released ra- double A side single Listen/ album, their chances are quite eran Jamaican producer Philip showcase album where Slim- dio session for . J Boog’s raspy soulful voice Real Reggae Music. high. Zacharri was joined by “Fatis” Burrell. mah Sound teams up with suits several types of riddims, the likes of Natty King, Gregory Lyrical Benjie, resident singer Zion Train started out in the something the EP shows very These two tunes are real Isaacs and Luciano on ‘Herbs Now she is headed to drop for the acclaimed King Shiloh late 80s as a sound system fus- well. From the hip-hop inspired scorchers. Believe me. If you Man’ and this time around, her debut album ‘Ghetto Prin- sound system that hails from ing dub with minimal- & one drop Coldest Zone to the like early 70’s reggae Trojan or he’s also enlisted a formidable cess’, where all tunes have the Netherlands. global influences which helped mellow Waiting on the Rain, Pama style, then both tunes trio of guests - Veteran sing- been recorded together with to redefine in the with its infectious whistling. will surely appeal to you. ers Earl Sixteen and Mark Tenn SherKhan. The album has been Their previous collaborations 90s. In 2007 they received rec- join on separate tunes as does preceded by the acoustic tune have proven fruitful. And the ognition for all their hard work Included are also an interest- wicked chanter, Tiwony, from new album – ‘Firm in Jah’ – will in pushing the boundaries of ing take on ’s Lee Perry produced classic Police ------‘We Remember ’ ------of one full track from the al- Luciano and Lutan Fyah along- and Thieves. UK based studio and record la- is a two disc album released Don Corleon bum. Above you can listen to side another up and comer in bel Reality Shock have just re- by VP Records. The first disc Natural Black’s Far From Reality Jah Victory, who is very impres- This set makes it clear that J leased the ‘Free The World’ rid- presents 16 of legendary vo- Presents Dub on the Seasons riddim. sive. Boog should be awarded a full dim album which was recorded calist’s hits as well all lesser In HD album for himself. at the House Of Hits studio in know tunes. Featured artists ------This is a wonderful initiative The Template Riddim is avail- , Jamaica. are among others Tarrus Riley, from a young Jamaican pro- able digitally right now, cour- who sings Front Door, and Gyp- ducer, and I certainly hope that tesy of PBR Productions. The riddim itself is in an original tian, on a version of My Num- others will follow in his foot------roots/steppers style and fea- ber One. steps. Perfect Says tures drums by the legendary Leroy “Horsemouth” Wallace, The second disc contains in- ‘Dub in HD’ will be available for Hold On Buju star of the 1978 film “”. strumental versions performed digital download on June 21. ------There are 15 vocal cuts on the by Dean Fraser himself. ------Hold On Buju is the latest re- album from some of Jamaica’s lease from the eccentric and leading reggae artists, includ- This is the second tribute to The Template colourful chanter from out of ing Jah Mason, Junior Kelly, Lu- the . French produc- Riddim St. Ann, Jamaica, Perfect, who tan Fyah, Jah Mali, Tony Curtis ers Irie Ites did a relick of Soon ------is also gearing up for a full al- & many more. Forward voiced by The Tam- bum, on which the tune is fea------lins, Naggo Morris, Trinity and tured, later in 2011. The track already in December. It is not often these days that Reggae Sun Ska The album is available to down- you hear dub music produced comes from the venerable load now at itunes with select- and mixed in Jamaica. Last year Californian based imprint, Lus- Festival 2011 ed cuts due out on 12” later ‘We Remember Gregory Isaacs’ tre Kings Productions and is will reach the stores in August. Alborosie put out ‘Dub Clash’, ------this year. a limited edition project where (OBVIOUSLY) in tribute to the The 14th edition of Reggae ------he had dubbed some of his infamous Reggae legend Buju Sun Ska Festival takes place We Remember Free from own material, as well as other Banton, who is currently in- this year from Friday the 5th Chains well know reggae tunes, in a carcerated, awaiting sentenc- to Sunday the 7th of August in Gregory Isaacs vintage dub style. ing, on a significant drug con- the picturesque town of Pauil------by viction. Certainly this isn’t the lac close to the ocean, lakes Kabaka Now it is happily enough time first tune of its kind, but it just and vineyards, near Bordeaux Pyramid again for a Jamaican dub al- PBR Productions may not yet as certain to be one of the fin- in the South of France. bum. In February a Youtube be a household name in the est. ------clip of Jamaican producer Don Reggae music community, but Despite the Ska term in the Kingstonian singjay Kabaka Corleon dubbing in his studio with more and more output festivals name there is varied Pyramid has just released started circling around. Soon it such as what is to be found mix of reggae styles from en- the interesting single Free was made official that he was on their Template Riddim, that tertainers old and new such from Chains, available for free working on a dub album titled may prove to be only a tempo- as , Toots & the download over at Bandcamp. It ‘Dub in HD’. rary state for them. In just four Maytals, Luciano, Romain Vir- is a tasty mix of roots and early vocal tracks, this set manages go, the Marley brothers Ky-Ma- dancehall scented with some The album presents ten dub to make a mighty fine imprint ni and Stephen plus a splash hip-hop. The riddims is in the versions of riddims such as on the listener and one which Perfect’s forthcoming album, of Hip Hop on the Sunday night Veteran Jamaican saxophonist same vein as Stephen Marley’s Drop Leaf, Major and Seasons, likely ensures that they’ll be ‘Back For The First Time’ will with an appearance by Art Mel- and producer Dean Fraser has recent Jah Army riddim. but also individual tunes, like coming back for the label’s next be in stores soon, but fans can ody from Burkina Faso. assembled an all-star cast of Protoje’s Wrong Side of the release. Vibing this sweet com- currently grab up the album’s ------singers and musicians to pay The single is taken from the EP Law. position is the up and coming initial single, Hold On Buju, Reality Shock tribute the late and great Greg- ‘Rebel Music’, scheduled for Jay Stutta, Adena Myrie [Sister through etailers across the ory Isaacs, who passed away release in July. United Reggae now has the op- of infamous Reggae legend, globe, courtesy of Zojak World- Free The World last year. portunity to present a sample Buju Banton - née Mark Myrie], wide. ------How Me Sound’. The album, ------able on physical CD release Judge Moody announced the which is set to reach stores in on June 23rd by Fireball Re- sentence he just blew a New Releases August is produced by veteran cords (Suga Roy’s own label). and waved to his subdued sup- From Jahspora Colin “Bulby” York and is to ------porters, some of who were cry- Production be released by Tad’s Records, ing, as he was led away. which has a reputation for Buju Banton ------[generally] pushing high qual- Sentenced To He will serve his time at the Parisian label Jahspora Produc- ity and predominately Roots 10 Years FCI prison facility in Miami and tion who brought out some fine Reggae sets. with good behaviour could be releases by the likes of Takana ------out in 6 years. His attorney Da- Zion, Manu Baobab and Ras Reportedly ‘Tell Me How Me Today United States Judge Jim vid Oscar Markus says he plans Mykha last year are back with Sound’ will feature mainly new 2012’s 4 night festival is to be Moody in the Sam M Gibbons to appeal stressing, “This fight two new 7”vinyl 45s. tunes, with the only exception held across 3 venues The Brix- US Court in Tampa Florida sen- is not over, we will keep fight- being previous single - The ton Academy, The Sheperds tenced Buju Banton to 10 years ing for him. Mark Myrie (Buju’s New Jerusalem is by singjay art- very well received Melody. Bush Empire and The Islington for drug trafficking offences. real name) is my brother, and ist BraveHeart, with whom the Academy and promoter Sean Universal I’m going to keep fighting until label released the anti-Sarkozy The return of Warrior King, ‘Tell Flowerdew has just announced Tribute to A jury found him guilty in Feb- they tell me to stop.” government tune Paris is Burn- Me How Me Sound’ hits stores the first 2 bands that will be ruary of conspiracy to possess ------ing also last year. This time across the planet in August. appearing. Gregory Isaacs with the intent to distribute round the rhetoric is seeking by Suga Roy & cocaine, possession of a fire- Rototom guidance, protection and giv- First up is one of 2 Tone’s great- Conrad Crystal arm in furtherance of a drug Sunsplash ing praise to Jah with the flip a est musicians and writers Noel trafficking offence and using Festival 2011 throbbing dub by Step-Art. Davies of the ------a telephone to facilitate a drug who’ll be appearing with his On October 25, 2010 the Reg- trafficking offence. The judge ------Marina-P & Ganja Tree make new ten piece band to perform gae community lost one of its threw out the gun charge, ac- The main stage line-up reads up the second release with In some of The Selecter’s classic most legendary of voices when knowledging that Banton had like a who’s who of reggae, Your Eyes produced in conjunc- hits like 3 Minute Hero, Missing Gregory Anthony Isaacs died in no idea others involved in the past and present and with this tion with ADM. A bit of a step- Words and London after an extended bat- conspiracy were carrying guns, year being the 30th anniversa- per this with Marina supplying plus new material that is said tle with cancer. The reaction which was the basis for the ry since ’s passing a captivating sung chorus to will bring the 2 Tone style and was great across the world and charge and he was therefore will feature son Stephen Mar- Ganja Tree’s dancehall chat. passion into the 21st century. eight months later, wonder- not convicted of carrying a ley opening night of Thursday The flip again features a dub Also confirmed are another fully, it continues, as the vener- weapon himself. 18th with more of his offspring in a classic style that has been English band and one of the able duo, Suga Roy & Conrad appearing in the shape of Ky- mixed by Nico129 and arranged ------highlights of this year’s show, Crystal now release their latest The harsh sentence is in fact mani and along by B.Nice & Jahspora. London the Hotknives, who just missed project - ‘Universal Tribute to the lowest sentence legally al- with wife, and mother to both ------International out on the 2-Tone explosion Gregory Isaacs’. lowed for his role in a large co- Ziggy and Stephen Rita Marley when they formed in 1982 and The album features the pair caine trafficking deal that took on Tuesday 23rd. Tell Me How Ska Festival are renowned for their wry lyri- taking on 18 of Isaacs’ most place in 2009 and had he been Me Sound by 2012 cal accounts of everyday life. well known hits such as Ru- found guilty of the firearms There is also a Dub Station Warrior King ------mours, Universal, Tune In and, charge he could have expected that will feature the likes of Earlybird tickets are on sale of course, Night Nurse. Also, at least a further 5 years to his Bush Chemists, Adrian Sher------After the phenomenal success joining in on the album are sentence. wood, Jah Observer, Channel of London’s first International now from www.londoninter- The once very promising War- nationalskafestival.co.uk/tick- veterans and Lu- One, O.B.F., Aba Shanti, Iration rior King may not have been Ska Festival in over twenty ciano on separate tracks. Banton appeared at the sen- Steppas ft. Maki Banton & YT, years it has been announced ets/ with the first 100 x 4 day heard from in quite some time, tickets at a discounted price tence hearing, which lasted Stand High Patrol ft. Pupa Jim, but he’s soon headed back to that the event will take place ‘Universal Tribute to Grego- just over an hour, dressed in Blackboard Jungle, King Alpha, again next year over the week- of £99.99 plus no booking fee, change that and in a very big saving you a whopping £40. ry Isaacs’ can currently be grey jail scrubs and shackled and Dubkasm ft. Solo Banton, way - His brand new album end of 3rd -6th May. purchased through etailers at the ankles. He did not speak plus a Ska Club with DJ 1-TA [number four to date], ‘Tell Me worldwide and will be avail- in court and did not react when Raw & 3rd Ball. ------ing previously unreleased ma- Necessary Mayhem and most ------Philip ‘Fatis’ Burrell and now Black Judah’s terial from Sir of recently The Handcart Market, On Sunday July 31st the Am- the world gets a taste of exact- . Joggo finds himself back in the sterdam Reggae Festival will ly what they’ve been pushing California comfortable care of Dredda be holding its first outdoor edi- recently. The very notable label Green EP With the launch date not that Records for the album, which tion at the NDSM Werf in Am- is about to deliver a trio of ex- far away the label is at pre- is reportedly where he got his sterdam. cellent tunes which are set to ------sent still looking for new and start. soon be available around the Sugar Black and Dylan Judah, established acts to sign, so if This reggae festival has taken world. collectively known as Black you represent a band/solo art- As the album’s title would sug- Judah are set to release their place 4 times before at in- ist in the fields of ska, reggae, gest, this project features a door venues the Amsterdam The up and coming much anticipated and environ- rocksteady, dub or even soul more vintage vibes of Roots [who, reportedly, re-energized mentally conscious EP set, ‘Cal- Heineken Music Hall and the then send an email to sean@ Reggae which is where Joggo Rotterdam Ahoy and has fea- Burrell’s passion for mak- ifornia Green’ which features pamainternational.co.uk with a thrives on tunes such as re- ing music] offers up two very the well respected [and quite ning independents Cherry Red tured reggae artists like Mava- mp3 or weblink to your music. cent single Strong Like Lion do, Jah Cure, Mr Vegas, Richie strong tracks. The first, I Need popular] duo not only deliver- Records who were founded in [alongside & Jah You, is a duet with singer Kayla ing their typically impressive 1978. , and Also Due to Sean’s commit- Decko], the cool lover’s piece, I many more. and is done across a new Xter- blend of Roots Reggae and Hip- ments to this new label and his Am Blessed, DJ Play Me Some minator riddim, the big and Hop, but doing so while keep- This new subsidiary la- work with organising The Lon- Roots and other winners. beautiful Bridgetown. Royal ing some big company. In just bel named after one of the The main stage line up for the don International Ska Festival, event is: , Midnite, also returns with the syrupy seven tracks, the pair manages Skatalites biggest hits, Phoe- it does mean that the Rockers This album is very strong and sweet and classically vibed to link up with Jamaican Reg- nix City, is to be run by Sean Junior Kelly, The Skatalites, Revolt label which he started you can soon hear for yourself Ken Boothe, Romain Virgo, set, Butterflies, which is a big gae stars Anthony B and War- Flowerdew the keys man be- around three years ago and as ‘Modern Rockers Vol. 1’ by Lover’s Rock tune, not to be rior King and also legendarily hind bands Pama Internation- Third World, Lutan Fyah, Ziggi brought out some fine releases Joggo for Dredda Records is Recado missed. ‘green’ rapper, Snoop Dogg, on al, The Loafers and proprietor in its time from the likes of Ed set to reach stores across the the project’s title track. of the Rockers Revolt label. Rome, The Slackers and Mun- The aim of the label will be to world on June 27. This will be supported by a ”What’s wrong gos Hi Fi will be slowly wound Jamrock Area with the Jam- with the picture? Black Judah has amassed quite release the finest in ska, rock- up and as such they are hold------the large fan base and one steady and reggae from around rock Soundsystem and special They only paint it ing a closing down sale with guests as well as The Roots would imagine [correctly] that the world, from classic reis- prices starting from as little as to trick ya” while they continue to wait sues to the best new sounds Corner, that is said will fea- prices starting at £0.01p, so ture several top international for the full album, this release around. And what would a return of visit www.rockersrevolt.com/ DJ’S, though no information would find a very comfortable Xterminator be without the while stocks last. on exactly who is available at home on the players of both The label launches in August presence of their most well ------present. It all gets underway Reggae and Hip-Hop fans. We 2011 with a series of previous- known product, Sizzla Kalonji. at 13:00hrs and tickets are won’t have to wait too long to ly unreleased digital releases Joggo’s Modern Riding high of the enormity of priced at € 35 available online find out either as their new from The Caroloregians, the his recent release, ‘The Scrip- Rockers Vol. 1 at www.1stpriority.nl, www. EP, ‘California Green’ reaches original King Fatty featuring tures’, Sizzla returns for the la------seetickets.nl and all Free Re- digital stores on June 28, cour- members from Big Boss Man, bel with which he established tesy of Atomic Records & Zojak The Bongolian & The Loafers, Having spent the last few years cord shops in The Netherlands. making and securing his name his now legendary name for the Worldwide. Intensified, The Sidewalk Doc------latest of what has to be hun- tors, plus reissues from Pama on the Dutch and Surinam Reg------gae scenes, the very talented The Return of dreds of large tunes between International and Capone & artist and label, the stirring so- Phoenix City The Bullets. August will also Amsterdam born chanter now Xterminator turns his focus to the entire cial commentary What’s Wrong Records see the first of what will be a ------With the Picture. ------series of monthly samplers globe as he releases his debut One of the most influential and ‘Phoenix City Scorchers’ show- album, ‘Modern Rockers Vol. 1’. Amsterdam successful Reggae labels of all A new ska, rocksteady and reg- Having recorded for a variety of All three tunes from Xtermina- gae label is on its way from casing some of the hottest ska, Reggae Festival time, Xterminator Productions, tor Productions will be availa- rocksteady & reggae sounds of labels, such as Not Easy At All has been hard at work under one of the UK’s longest run- & JahSolidRock, Silly Walks, 2011 ble on etailers worldwide, very now, with Volume One includ- the guidance of the legendary soon. maica in search of Augustus was that the information and fer live drums, especially Santa Pablo. Our original idea was facts available on the Internet Davis. He would make any rid- to make a magazine about his provided a biased and unreal- dim magic just by improvising. BETH LESSER Rockers International opera- istic view of history. For exam- However, I am glad to finally tions.” ple, the artists with computer see so many talented women. “I saw reggae troverted,” says Beth Lesser. knowledge have had the op- I love Lady Saw and Queen Ifri- as vibrant and turned out to portunity to highlight their own ca,” she concludes. She began to seek out new mu- be a humble person and very role in the music, while others ------pure. There is sic, music that you could have willing to talk about his music have been forgotten,” she says probably no fun to. And that’s when reggae and activities. But he did not and continues: A few fast ones other genre that came into her life. think the pair would be con- to Beth Lesser fined writing only on Rockers “At the same time, such a great is so detailed, “It was through punk and the ------International. Instead, he invit- part of dancehall music was Favourite artist? open to new English two-tone scene that I ed them to dances and various created live rather than on disc. came in contact with reggae. I have many - influences and studios where they were given Many of the artists who were is one, Sugar Minott of course Also, I had anarchist friends unique opportunities to meet not recording have not been musical experi- who loved Bob Marley and and U Roy are some of my fa- many of Jamaica’s stars of the given any space at all in his- vorites. mentation” The Harder They Come sound- time. tory. For example, Brigi [Briga- track. I saw reggae as vibrant ------dier Jerry] and Charlie Chaplin Best reggae song? and pure. There is probably no “My best memory is when we An were influenced by Canada’s Beth Lesser other genre that is so detailed, Dance Pon The Corner by Jah went with Augustus Pablo to unbiased view Screecha Nice.” Thomas. provides open to new influences and King Tubby’s Studio. It was on ------musical experimentation,” she our first trip to Jamaica, and to ------reggae history In addition to Reggae Quarterly, Best reggae years? says. see King Tubby in work is all a Several she has published two books - 1980, or perhaps 1979 to 1981. ------reggae fan can dream of.” talented Across all industries and fields King Jammy’s and Dancehall: They knew how to use percus- there are people who work in Started Reggae The Story of Jamaican Dance- women sion. the background, but still play a Quarterly hall Culture. She has also just ------very important role. It can be a put a book on her longtime Beth Lesser says she is part of Best reggae producer? ------friend – the late and great Sug- Junjo and Jah Life - their early or functionaries at Through her anarchist friends the old reggae generation and ar Minott. The Legend of Sugar works. George Phang has also a marathon. People we are in she met Jamaican reggae mu- does not keep track of current Minott & Youth Promotion is a had some classics and Jammy great need of, but that are rare- sician Ernie Smith, a rendez- reggae artists. vivid portrait of this acclaimed has been successful ever since ly seen or get the appreciation vous that further increased her singer and has rendered great the 70’s. they deserve. interest in reggae. As a result, “I like parts of contemporary interest. reggae, but I prefer the dee- she and her husband David Interview by Erik Magni Reggae journalist and photog- Kingston took the initiative to jay style that rides the riddim, King Jammy’s is, as the title Photos by Beth Lesser rapher Beth Lesser is one such. start the cult magazine Reggae rather than forcing it. I also pre- indicates, a deep exploration She has been a vital part of Quarterly in 1981. the international reggae scene of one of Jamaica’s top pro- ducers. The Story of Jamaican since the late 70’s when she The magazine was and still Dancehall Culture is wider and became interested in Jamaican is - if you manage to get your describes reggae - especially music. hands of a copy - much appre- dancehall – in an easy and ciated, particularly because it free way. The book is spiced “I started listening to reggae included interviews and photo- with fantastic artwork and per- after punk had died in the late graphs of many legendary art- sonal experiences from 80’s 70’s. I liked the aggressiveness ists and musicians. in punk, its grassroots feel and Kingston. “What inspired me to write Dancehall: The Story spontaneity. But the music lost “My husband and I went to Ja- all that and went bitter and in- of Jamaican Dancehall Culture I can’t stand city life. I have to be semi out of Babylon to func- GABRIEL FROM tion. I look out of my window and see the hills and it’s impor- REALITY tant for my creative process to be in an irie space. I do music CALCOTT CHANT full time so every day I’m in the studio. Reality Chant is still me “When I start- Levi the Saxon mc) and a Maori and Confucius – between the chanter named LittleJah. Their two of us we can build a whole ed next long-player was 2003’s . I’m a drum- was just a part locally massive ‘Dubwise Re- mer so in all my rhythms you’ll of reggae. Now ality Chant’, which boasted in- hear the heartbeat. I’ll lay ternational voice talent in the down the drums then I’ll take it Rastafari is form of London-based Mont- to his studio round the corner first” serrat-born Raggadon and the where he’s got a wicked Midi ------Nigerian Iya Far’I – both of setup and we lay down , Gabriel Calcott is a producer whom encouraged Calcott in bass, keyboards. He plays me- from Christchurch, New Zea- his growing Rastafarian faith. lodica and flute and all types land, where he runs Real- Gabriel then started his Reality of things. Then I’ll take it back ity Chant productions, whose Chant label in 2007, which has to mine and do any overdubs, rhythms are fast making a issued an album by Papa Levi – bring in a trumpet player and name for themselves all around retitled Sniper Levi – as well as do the mixing and post produc- the world. Since the day he was big rhythms such as Country tion. We’ve got a really tight born he was to reggae Living, Nah Bow Down and Fire system and can put down a music from his parents’ record I Blaze (the latter two being rel- rhythm in about 3 hours. store, working there from age icks of old Dubwize backings) with it. Reggae for me is a vehi- generally in New Zealand and it A couple of months later Jah Ma- sixteen. Realizing the life of a ridden by Luciano, Natty King, How influenced is your music cle to work with conscious art- was time to start looking more son was touring with a guy from Hi Kee, Deadly Hunta and many ists who have a strong voice and globally. The first artist from ’s Firehouse sound record store worker involves by Rastafari? the daily pain of seeing choice more. Just as our interview be- something to say. Jamaica I voiced was Chrisinti system who I had brought over gan a minor tremor shook the whose album Comfort My Peo- to New Zealand for a show. platters pass into the hands of To me it’s all about Rastafari. studio, warning of the tragic How did you go from produc- ple I really loved. I messaged Jah Mason and his manager your customers, the young Ga- Getting into reggae music was briel shrewdly took advantage earthquake that would devas- ing local artists to interna- him through Myspace and sent wanted to record with some lo- tate Christchurch exactly one the foundation of Rastafari. But him the rhythm and within two cal producers from Australia of the lack of demand for rare as I’ve grown with reggae mu- tional superstars? vintage reggae in Christchurch month later. Fortunately, Ga- days he’d phoned back and left or New Zealand so Lucius from briel was out of the country at sic I’ve also grown in the faith a message saying he’d writ- Firehouse put me in touch with and much of the second-hand and livity. My last album Kings It started with the Country Liv- stock went straight in to his the time, but our thoughts are ten two songs, one of which them. I sent them the rhythm with all those who have suf- Highway was livicated to The ing rhythm. From about 2007 he sang down the phone! I was and the Chrisinti tune and they own crate! Around the same King and spreading the posi- it became my mission to push time he became a selector fered since then. new to the business then and were really interested so Jah tive message of Rastafari and reggae from New Zealand to didn’t know how to negotiate so Mason wrote the tune while he and, in 2000, started his own ------everything that comes with it. the rest of the world because Dubwize sound system and Your studio is outside of the I think he was pretty happy with was in Australia, flew over for Reggae for me is a vehicle to it’s such a limited market here. the deal! He recorded the tune a gig and met me at the studio production house with friend city of Christchurch, right work with conscious artists When we released our first two and musical collaborator Con- called So High which set the to voice Put Jah Above on Coun- near the beach. How does who have a strong voice and Dubwize in 2002-3 reg- foundation for the rhythm and try Living and a combination fucius. Their first album ‘Dub- something to say. My last al- gae was booming in NZ but by wize Meets Confucius At The your environment inform working with future artists. for Sniper Levi’s album. When bum Kings Highway was livicat- the time we put out Sniper Levi’s Jah Mason’s manager got back Control Tower’ was released in your music, and what is a ed to The King and spreading album reggae wasn’t so cool 2002 and featured vocals from typical day? So who was your next link? to Jamaica he emailed me links the positive message of Rasta- anymore with the youth. The with more artists and I voiced one Papa Levi (not Phillip Papa fari and everything that comes was suffering them together to do a song that them is called Judgement Fi Bab- environment is New Zealand Of Judah but they’re not Rastas worked – I hardly had to edit it ylon on the Fire I Blaze rhythm. for Rastafari? so it causes confusion for peo- at all. I told the rest of the art- I reckon it’s one of the biggest ple here. Reggae bands just use Rasta imagery as a fashion to ists I didn’t want or tunes both me and Louie Cul- Brother Nandor’s been working sell albums which really vexes even lovers tunes – just pure ture have ever recorded. We’ve to establish a United Rastafari me. There’s an international heartical Rasta business. talked about artists from New Aotearoa National Council. I perception that everyone in New Zealand, Jamaica and continen- was up in the North Island with Zealand loves reggae. But for me You’ve also been doing some tal Europe. How did you link him at a gathering the weekend a lot of New Zealand reggae is work with Germany’s House with Deadly Hunta from the UK before last with a big group of very watered down lightweight for your huge tune Give Thanks Rastas. The brother Nandor is a Of Riddim. business. They don’t really cov- on the Fire I Blaze rhythm – and really serious brethren and per- How did that happen? er militant topics, they’re say- when is the album coming out? sonally I probably wouldn’t have ing nothing – just words in the One of Hunta’s main produc- been as willing to be involved if That was through Lenny Roots, wind. It’s something I’ve always ers DJ Skitz has been coming it weren’t for his work in parlia- Jah Mason’s now ex-manager. struggled with – the lack of the out to New Zealand for the last ment. He’s such a hardwork- When I voiced the first tune with foundation, the lack of Nyabing- Ginjah who I was really feeling get the vinyl pressed and dis- ten years. I helped co-promote ing, trustworthy, organized and Natty King on Kings Highway, hi, the lack of the heartbeat. It’s at the time from his song Uni- tributed and the rhythm was his gig with Rodney P in about honest bro so when it comes to Fyah Bed, Lenny and House all a bit loose too. Every “chank” fication with the German crew also released online via Sound- 2008 with Nice Up crew from organizing a united voice for all Of Riddim were co-producing you have to put love into it. You Scrucialists. He voiced a nice quake in Germany in 2008. Wellington. I played Skitz the Rastas in NZ he was the ideal Natty King’s album [Born To Be have to spank that guitar and Ki- lovers tune called Happy Years. Country Living rhythm in the car person. In New Zealand Rasta- Free] and he said they’d really and he said he had a brethren wis just haven’t quite got it. How did you come up with like to use the song for the al- fari is majorly misrepresented, How did you link with in London – one of the wicked- your Kings Highway album bum. They wanted to slightly especially in the media. They est vocalists I was ever going think Rastas are just pot smok- Surely commercialization of Luciano? released in 2010? re-record some of my rhythm – to hear! – who he had to link ing hippies. There’s a 12 Tribes Rasta ideas is something that keep it the same but use some me with. He introduced us via Just after the Ginjah tune Lu- in Auckland but they’ve had is- of their live band – so I sent email and Hunta voiced the Fire happens the world over? ciano and Mikey General came Well the Country Living was re- sues in the organization which ally more aimed at a dj market him all the files and he record- I Blaze rhythm in early 2009 – out to New Zealand to do some don’t put Rastas in the best It’s particularly bad here. with the 45s and it wasn’t so ed live drums, bass and keys so it was a little while later that shows and Dubwise were the light. There’s a lack of spokes- There’s a lack of West Indian much for home listening so I and mixed it in. I actually released it! Initially we support act. I picked them up people for Rastas in New Zea- community here. Apart from my- thought I needed to put those were going to do an EP but rea- and gave my bro who was driv- land which is why we’re estab- self there’s been maybe three or tracks on an album. I didn’t That album is popular in the soning with him last year we de- ing the Country Living cd for lishing the council for I and I four Rasta reggae groups over want to do a one rhythm album cided to put our tunes together the stereo. As we pulled up to Caribbean so even in a slight- people as a movement so we’re the last 20 years. That has been because that concept wouldn’t with others he’s done in the UK the lights I could see Luciano ly different form that must not misrepresented. part of mine, Dubwize and Re- really work here in New Zea- and Europe for Damalistik Roots and Mikey bopping to the mu- have been great. ality Chant’s mission to create land so I decided to work on Survival and Reality Shock and sic and looking at me with this And how does New Zealand a bit more awareness within a multi-rhythm album. I linked do an album between Reality puzzled look! That night they Yeah it was. Especially reading the music of Rastafari culture with some more artists like Lu- Chant and Hunta’s own Much tend to view reggae? Certain wrote a song for the rhythm reviews that said Fyah Bed was and where reggae music came tan Fyah, Natty King and Hi Kee Love label. But he’s still working bands have crossed over in- and before the show the next the highlight tune! I’ve also re- from. Going back to what I said and told them beforehand the on getting his album out with day we went to the studio and mixed one of their Natty King ternationally but they’re more earlier, Brother Nandor starting concept of the album was The Catch 22 which he’s been push- voiced the tunes. By luck my tunes with Louie Culture which fusion based. the council has been a bit step Kings Highway. Natty King and ing in all his live shows so that Dubwise backing vocalists had is coming out on his new album. because it’s nothing to do with Sniper Levi – who had by this has to come out first. just flown into Christchurch Since Ganga Lee I’ve always In New Zealand reggae music is reggae. For me when I started time changed his name again that day so Luciano was able had a huge amount of respect partially responsible for the mis- Rastafari was just a part of reg- to David Levi which is how he to direct the backing vocals for for Louie Culture. Since Lenny New Zealand used to have a representation. There’s a lack of gae. Now Rastafari is first. started – did a combination for his own song. After that I had stopped working with Jah Ma- Rastafarian MP in Nandor Tanc- Rasta livity within New Zealand the title track. They wrote their enough tunes to put out the son he’s been producing Louie zos which hit the international reggae. A lot of bands here are Interview by Angus taylor parts separately but somehow rhythm so I contacted One Love and I’ve produced about five quite happy to flash the red, as Rastamen the spirit brought headlines. How supportive an in Jamaica and negotiated to tunes for the album – one of gold and green flag and the Lion “The real talent and the real -ferent parts of the world and ing who I was. I went away for hard after your one hit tune you understand myself and know a whole year back to Dominica paid so much to promote. But stories will always overpower myself. So therefore my music so that was finding myself. All I don’t hate you for it because GAPPY the fake ones” becomes international because these things made who Gappy this is music and everyone’s en- Put The Stereo On was a Studio tant stuff to buy in the world you stop speaking about local Ranks is today and made me a titled to do what they want. But 1 album talking about my child- – they need their toothpaste, and start speaking to the world. stronger person. I’m still learn- the real talent and the real sto- hood and the present day. The toilet paper, got to pay rent, all As you grow so does your mu- ing, still maturing and still ries will always overpower the RANKS new album is exactly what it these things - but if they have sic. searching. When I look back on fake ones. my history I was a bad student. Since our last interview with says, giving Thanks and Praise. a little left over in these times I don’t believe an album should of recession, buy the Gappy Did you enjoy music at school? A bad child if you like. Growing You were on the BBC on Jools Gappy Ranks he has continued up as an only son I found my- on the path that took him out be songs just thrown onto a cd Ranks album because it’s a Holland. Did you watch Reggae and compiled. It’s like cheat- good buy and a good listen. Music was hard for me in self on the streets from a very of poverty and homelessness young age. I wouldn’t like to say Britannia? What did you think? to being the UK’s number one ing the listener. So my album school. In the UK curriculum and my songs tell a story and when you learn music you learn “mixing with the wrong crowd” young reggae star. He’s re- You’ve got quite an inter- because it was falling into the Honestly? leased second album ‘Thanks they’re all laid in a certain way classical music. Maybe I could and pattern. You’ll find Thanks national cast of elements have used that today but I was wrong problems. Problems at & Praise’ - exploring the more on the album – Russian and home. These things happen. Yeah honestly. modern dancehall and one- & Praise produced by Jazzwad, afraid to learn these things. I One Day At A Time, dealing with But everything’s OK today. drop side to his repertoire. Delly from Jamaica, Macro didn’t understand them from It was a great show, great per- my own personal relationships He’s played in Sheffield with Marco from , Special De- the culture I was coming from. formance, great artists, but in a way everyone can relate Right now there’s a lot of dis- , toured Japan livery from France… You have to remember this is that’s not where reggae mu- to, songs like Tun Up featuring during the earthquake (which a youth coming from a Harles- cussion in the UK press about sic ends. And for somebody Russian, it’s new, it’s modern. den, Jamaican background and he documented in song with Definitely because over the people getting into the music watching and listening to reg- You’ll also find Better Must you’ve got as teacher teaching I Was There), and performed last two years Gappy Ranks business through very privi- gae music for the very first time Come which, if you’re in your you classical music. I didn’t care bittersweet ballad Longtime has become international and switching on BBC, they’d think down or worst times, it can about Mozart and - what’s his leged backgrounds via stage (about the life he left behind) my name is known internation- that’s where all reggae music only get better when it’s at its name? - Beethoven! I couldn’t school and so on. on the BBC’s flagship music ally. Give Thanks for a great has started and stopped. They programme Later With Jools worst. Also Could A Run Away understand their music. But the management team, Special I’m not fussy because this is a never dealt with the present and Holland. But Gappy still lives in featuring Delly Ranx which is teacher understood who I was Delivery, my own label Hot Cof- crowded world and every day future of reggae music which is his local area and strongly be- about how many times I’ve had and I have to big up Mr Gilman. fee Music, labels like VP and the population is rising so you’ll Gappy Ranks and many other lieves that others can achieve to stand up and face the facts Also, IT - I hated going on the Greensleeves, and friends and find in every different business artists. I’ve done so much for what he did if they are prepared and what life threw at me. The PCs with the black screen and family. I have got to tour dif- and industry populations will the UK that I should have been to follow their dreams. Angus people have a lot more impor- the green writing. In my school rise. What I do know is music on that stage show. I felt it but I Taylor spoke with the man and we had ten Apple Macs and I re- is something you cannot learn still watched and am giving joy his manager Pierre Bost at Gap- fused to do the lesson unless I in a college or school. It’s with- so big up and all py’s North West London studio could use the Apple Mac. Up to in you. It’s a part of you. And the rest who took part. where he was voicing a Happy this day I’m fond of Apple Mac what makes it part of you is the Birthday tune as catchy as the so big up Mr O’Brien for keeping things you go through. A lot of How did it feel to play with one sung around the world… me on them! music is emotional and heartfelt David Rodigan in Sheffield in After you left school you went – the best musics are heartfelt April? You’ve given the people and emotional. You find a lot through some bad times. vintage rhythms with the of these songs are love songs I remember listening to Rodigan Peckings album. Now you’ve What happened? or about hard life and so on. If on Kiss Fm from when I was a released your first one drop you are in the music business youngun. He was the first per- I was going through unforseeken and you’ve never lifted a finger and dancehall album Thanks son I heard play Louie Culture things like I had nowhere to live in your life and you don’t know Gangalee and ’s When and & Praise. so I was all around the place what it’s like in the real outside Tiger even bigs him up in the but at the same time I was find- world, you’re going to find it song. Just the other day Vybz -ing it more - it’s about the really late. So you had these tour) economy. And as I said before, sites coming and controlling it if you have enough money to before the record companies. How many are released a buy my album buy my album. It’s their fault that we’re feeling year? But people have got to wonder the pain of the lack of policing about how to put food on the and sales. But as I table in places like Jamaica and said it’s also beneficial, you About 60. things like that so big up every have to see the positive out of artist who’s working hard and everything, and things like this What advice do you have for doing their thing for reggae are helping my music be heard young people who want to music – that’s all I can say. and played around the world. make it in music? We have to live with it. Sorry. Do you think filesharing is as Don’t be like me. Be like your- much of a problem as people How many rhythms would self. You are your best friend say? you say you voice in a year? and your worst enemy. Re- spect yourself and others will Definitely and a lot of the blame (laughter from others) About respect you. See your dream is with the record companies. 1,500. (Pierre: Nah, about and others will see it. Believe Those were the ones who were 3-400) No way! Last year I did in yourself and others will be- supposed to be protecting the about 700 (Pierre: No, 400 lieve. And for the young ones, artists in the past, present and because when we’re on tour brush your teeth in the morn- future time. They never locked we don’t record). Alright 500! ing. (Pierre: And the evening!) onto the internet and the whole (Pierre: When you’re at home And in the evening. mp3 downloading – they were you record two a day but not on Kartel bigged up David Rodi- so much passion for it that eve- People also say reggae is do- Interview by Angus taylor gan, he’s a very important rybody feels hurt at how the ing much better outside JA person in the reggae busi- industry be working. I myself than inside. ness. Reggae music is some- think social networking has thing where when you love it come in and declined artists you love it with a passion and from selling as much as they Well, what you have to remem- he definitely has that passion used to but it has also brought ber is you are talking about a just because of his knowledge, the world together and made very poor country and has a lot love and understanding of the it a lot easier for other artists of problems which the world music. It takes a lot of passion – like I was – to be heard. Just needs to pay more attention to. and love to do that. Rodigan is like in everything you have And you have to remember reg- a very inspirational person. problems and I’m sure as the gae music is born from Jamai- industry comes together and ca. That’s where it comes from. gets its glory it will only get So all royalties are supposed to People are always saying reg- go to Jamaica anyway. So yes, gae is dying. Rodigan said last better. Big up people like Buju Banton (we all know the Buju I do think Jamaica is missing year that he wasn’t happy Banton story and what Buju’s out on a lot of the highlights with what comes out of Ja- going through right now) but they’re supposed to get but Ja- maica, although he’s more look at that – out of the worst maican people are everywhere and where they are so does impressed this year. times he’s going through right now he won a Grammy. In eve- their culture spread so that’s why there’s reggae music eve- All respect to David Rodigan rything you have bad and good rywhere. It’s not about who’s but what you have to remember and you just have to take them embracing it more or who’s lov- is as music goes on you have as it goes. MO’KALAMITY Tell us more about the im- I used to listen to a lot of An- minent re-release of your glophone music and this lan- second album ‘Deeper Revo- guage seems to me as more smooth whereas French sound lution’… seems to me more hard, less easy to swing… But when I It first came out in 2010 but it write, it has to be natural. I was quite a low-key release, no don’t limit myself. The choice announcement or big distribu- of language comes naturally. tion. The album was only avail- able in some shops in France and at the end of our concerts. You played twice in Cape But we had positive feedback. Verde in 2010. How was it? It’s still a good surprise to see people from France to Canada I thought I would introduce or Cape Verde know our music my band there but the people “The real whereas even in France, there were perfectly aware of my talent and the wasn’t really any media plan history. Our first album ‘War- real stories to launch the release. Musi- riors of Light’ (2009 - L’assos’ cast is reissuing the album, so piquante) had travelled by will always it will be available everywhere word of mouth. They were overpower the in France and also via Internet. waiting for us. All the concerts fake ones” were sold out. It was more How did the story begin with than what we expected! It was All that is available, right now, various vinyl records along- In my first album, I said “mu- a great experience. The reg- it’s dangerous for me. It’s just side French dub producers : sic eases the soul”. I’m sure Mo’kalamity is a rising fe- your band The Wizards? gae scene is setting up there quick consumption, it’s not Junior Cony, Barbes D, Digital of that. Music gives hope and male singer based in Paris, of but the local musical scene is good. I hope people who like Rockers, Blackboard Jungle or strength to each and every- Cape Verdian origin. She has I started as a rich with many genres and full our music will make the effort Nyah Skanky. one. already released 2 albums in some French groups before of talented musicians. to buy our album. I realized that I wanted to build : ‘Warriors of Light’ in 2009 In your songs, you often talk and ‘Deeper Revolution’ in my own project. I started to How does the worldwide compose my own songs and What are your views on reg- It’s rare to see you on riddim about selfishness, the hard- late 2010 (that has just been news inspire you in these with time I refined my artistic gae in 2011? series or as a featuring… ness of the world we’re liv- re-released). Her feel? Strictly times? conscious lyrics over a fresh vision. I formed a band with ing in. Do you believe there I still buy albums because I’m rootsy reggae played by her musicians I already worked For various reasons. For me not familiar with this new vir- is hope? The awakening is on its way. band, the Wizards. As an inde- with and The Wizards were music is firstly sharing. To tual culture. I like getting a cd Just look what happened re- pendent artist, she has toured born! The line up changed, I make a collaboration, we need in my hands when I want to lis- Of course. I don’t believe in cently in Maghreb. It gives extensively on the local Paris- met Johnson, on keyboards a sharing, good vibration with ten to it and not getting a usb fate. The current worldwide hope in Unity and our ability ian stage, in Cape Verde and who also was my manager for the artist or the producer… key with compressed mp3’s. situation is really hard but it to gather….But, who pulls the in Europe, to spread her good a long time. I’m not looking after featur- Nowadays, we can consume seems we’re coming to the strings ? People are hungry, vibrations asking us to awake ings or series just for a good all and anything without im- end of something. It’s time to they want freedom and jus- our consciences. Interview. You mostly write in English. reputation. I need a sharing, mersing yourself. a musical meeting. I released act. It’s in little actions that tice. The Occident and their al------Why? we can improve our societies. lies can’t ignore much longer that people need to get a new ing to the dancehall, the club can listen to some tracks and worldwide balance. and to stage shows. Listen- be inspired I hope. Because ing to the radio, to sound sys- the Most High inspired us to What does reggae lacking to SIZZLA tem, listening to people to see make it without colour, class, what’s happening with new race or creed. We as Rastaman help it go forward? Prime Ministers and politics have to make sure the hungry “Africa is my and change. So due to the fact be fed the sick nourished the In France, a lack of serious or- reservoir of that the people are familiar aged protected and the infants ganisation. But, most of all, it with old school reggae, if we cared for. Music has done a lot seems that this music is not knowledge of could take it back to the peo- for me. Not just to make me taken seriously by the me- everything” ple with a beautiful message it popular but to help me to feed dia and music industries. We would be great. So this album the people in the ghetto, to need to gather to make reg- is really an ancient album with help my neighbour, send them gae movement progress. Since Sizzla dropped 2010’s Homer Harris compilation ‘Cru- a present day meditation. to school, send their kids and my kids to school. So I created As we can see in your first cial Times’ he has attracted media scrutiny for spending 6 There are some old rhythms this album and put a little more video Autour de Toi, you give months in Africa - including a on the album. As well as Zion spice in it! So it can make some good money so it never stops equal importance to the aes- visit to Robert Mugabe’s Zim- Gate there’s Jah Fire Will Be thetic, the arrangement, im- babwe. Now back in Judgement selling so that when anyone Burning from John John’s fa- calls on me I can sing that al- ages, artworks … Yard, he has finally released his followup, ‘The Scriptures’ - ther. Why was the time right bum and help them out. It’s important for the global this time without Greensleeves to pay tribute to veteran mu- sense of my project, from the - for King Jammy’s son John sicians with these tracks? There’s a lot of singing on this sound and the lyrics to the John. The result is an even more album and there are some cover of the album and the roots reggae oriented record That is why we called it The very nice female backing vo- video, that it be coherent. And than ‘Crucial Times’ or its pre- Scriptures because it’s new but cals on the album. Was it in decessor ‘Ghetto Youthology’ the thoughts are old. It’s not it’s also due to lucky meet- your mind to make a singing ings like with Pietro Di Zanno - using some vintage rhythms just the thoughts of Sizzla but (director of Autour de Toi who from John John’s father. Sizzla of people before us. The world album? also directed Ayo’s videos) spoke to Angus Taylor at John loves one drop and Jammys and also my graphic designer, John’s studio in Jamaica about has some beautiful rhythms so Yes sir, because reggae music Seb Thiroux. the album, his travels and his we asked Father Jammys if we goes well with singing. Some- own place in today’s reggae could use them and said “Let’s times we like to spice it up with a little more deejay thing What are your influences ? scene... go!”. The people want new ------songs and when I see Bob Mar- and rough it up but let’s sing ley make great songs and peo- the notes you can hear so the A lot of roots music. I always You have a new album out ple like make world can sing along and let quote Bob, , The with John John. You’ve me know you know music. So Gladiators, … All new songs I think “You’ve got worked with him before on I decided to put a lot of singing the vocal trios from the 70’s. I to be in this league Sizzla” so some tunes but whose idea John John and me we sat and on this. Singing and deejaying also like a lot. is really different. Deejaying is On the actual scene, I like Tar- was it to do a full album to- meditated on all these things and even mediate on people more harsh and more explicit rus Riley. I saw him on stage gether? and more to the point where- and it works well. I like how like you yourself. So we just try our best to make it nice and as singing is more subtle and his last album is produced. I would say the Most High. We make the world nice with beau- smooth and reaches the mind. don’t just get up and make the tiful music naturally and lead So I personally use both arts Text and photos by album based on our lifestyles. them on a path where they within the vocal with singing Franck Blanquin We’ve studied the music by go- to soothe the mind and free I see who I am in America. So I as a Jamaican should be Garvey did send me fi yard!” the minds of the people. To get When I go to Africa I see my looking to Africa to my ances- Emmanuel I and Selassie did the cheerfulness out of them. roots and my culture. I see my tors my people for more spir- call me and said “You go to Sometimes when I listen to a pride and my shame and all ituality, more knowledge, more the world of people in Paris, rhythm I try to get the cheerful- the things that keep me down. education of who I am really. France, Europe and sing about ness by deejaying or a little rap I see myself free. I see myself Not just as an artist singer, Africa” so how can I go to the or something and sometimes I as a true leader. I learn a whole but through biology, geogra- and not sing to get cheerfulness out of lot of stuff. I see who human phy, through maths, physics, go to Africa? I sing to the peo- people. That’s really the prin- beings are really. Who they chemistry. Through just about ple of the world saying “Africa ciple and the law of music - to are on the earth. They are spe- everything concerning knowl- beautiful”. How can I say it is create joy, happiness and help cially created on this planet to edge and inspiration. So Africa beautiful when the world looks people enter more of a spiritual live in love and help each oth- keeps me more as who I am as at me and says “Have you been realm. er. When you reach that realm a Jamaican and I know more of to Africa?” I want to say “Yes! you’ll see other realms but how to speak to the people in I must come the next time I You also go even further back you can’t seen them until you the world and of who they are. am going!” And it gives them to the foundation with Happy reach that realm. Africa is my Africa is my reservoir of knowl- strength, conviction to the home. I see where I’m from. I edge of everything. words. Because people would Birthday in ska style. Were see where all my ancestors are say “Sizzla comes and teaches you wishing anyone specific a from. I see where all the knowl- How did the people you are and speaks on certain matters happy birthday or just every- Happy Birthday song then eve- make a whole heap of people edge is from. Where civiliza- close to in Jamaica cope with and we have been following tion is from. So I think every- Sizzla singing about Africa and one? ry day people would sing more want that song because I need you being away? Sizzla and I would get more money and you must not steal. one should visit Africa and see we know everything is from Af- what has happened to Africa rica. Yet Sizzla doesn’t come to Yes sir. Because when I look popularity! (laughs) I planned So you work and get your stuff The people in Jamaica said around I kept a lot of back to for this album! Father Jammys honestly. I want to make songs and create an Africa in a sense Africa to mark their books? How that can lead the world. Same “Sizzla? What you doing comes you are coming teaching school parties for the kids in said “Sizzla, where did you not just for the message but around here? I thought you Judgement Yard and I kept a lot and John John get that album, smartly. Also to keep yourself as how people look to Jamaica us about Africa and Rasta and for spirituality in the music, were in Africa. You should be black people and you haven’t of birthdays for my sons and it bad!” so I said “You know in the spotlight and on the ra- in Africa. We heard you live in daughter and a lot of kids who what Jammys I got to promote dio and in the cameras - not for when I go to Africa I say “Oh been here to learn more from gosh. This where we’re from”. Africa. What you doing around your other families?” So yes, I visited. I noticed that the mu- the Scriptures properly!” Do hype or for boastfulness but here?” And I said “Yes! Marcus sic helps the people to rise up you know why else it is called for the cause of the people and must leave my Africa and come above certain ill feelings and the Scriptures? the nations. back to the West to everybody they need the music. We don’t and come round. But Africa just use music for the mes- Why? What have your six months in calls everyone on the island to come around and build and sage. We use music for adver- Africa last year given you? tisements and for promotion. Because I wanted to get the create Africa and live in love That is why you will get a dif- Christians and all people that and obey the commandments. It’s given me everything I’ve Nothing else. ferent song at different times read the bible also. To look and lost. That I didn’t really remem- from Sizzla. We use music for see how people are suffering ber I’d got. It’s given me back just about everything. Even in the ghetto every day. They love, life, strength, knowledge, Today in the Gleaner there the politicians use music to are doing their application wisdom and understanding. is an article about dancehall promote to get votes. There is and their degrees and this and It’s given me blessings. It’s music making people de- everything in the music. So I that and still they aren’t get- given me respect. It’s given me pressed. Did you read it? looked around and thought the ting their jobs. So when I call it smartness to know that all the art of the music is to be smart the Scriptures and make songs people in the world should visit and always be above and be on No, I didn’t see it. But mu- like Happy Birthday I want to Africa and see themselves. Be- sic doesn’t make anyone de- the tongue of the people in the reach out to more people. So I cause when I go to America I right way. So if I could make a pressed. Why should it? Music try to sing a birthday song and see the American side of me. I is being created to raise the spiritual realms of the people. vulnerable to the storm. Bob to you and the people. I consid- But I would say that they might Marley was a great teacher. His er myself a messenger, a hum- craft that knowledge based on daddy was white, his mummy ble servant, a father, as a role lyrics. If you’ve got an office is black and we love him so model. People are looking unto you’re not going to degrade the we don’t care. We are going to me. But to give myself titles office because the individual in keep celebrating the king just saying I am a veteran I think is the office is not working up to as we celebrate His Imperial really presumptuous. I leave standard. Remove the individ- Majesty Emperor Haile Selas- that to the people and just ual and add someone who is sie I. Because the minute you keep doing my work. I didn’t capable and knows the criteria disrespect the work of your come to claim titles. I came to and beauty and love of the of- elders you are disrespecting see the sheep to spread mes- fice. So I respect their opinion the nation. Bob Marley has in- sages! (laughs) I would say I’m because that’s made me want spired us and taught us very a shepherd. I would say I’m a to go and make a dancehall al- well and the reason being is priest. I would say I’m a king. bum now knowing that person that he teaches and embraces I would say I’m a humble serv- made that criticism. I’m going the name of His Imperial Maj- ant. I would very much say I’m to make a dancehall album and esty Emperor I a prophet. I’m a teacher. But WHIP WHAP WHAP! All over the Jah Rastafari. Once you show a veteran? I don’t think that’s place! I’ve just made a one drop the nation The King they are go- for me to claim. Leave some- album but now that person in ing to get out of their punkness thing for the people to decide! the Gleaner gives me my duty and their drunkenness and get (laughs) now to go and make a dance- out of their kinkiness and say hall album to make that person “Oh! I’m a king! Bob speaks of Interview by Angus Taylor say “I like that! That is what The King. I’m not going to go in dancehall is”. We are working front of The King looking like a for the people so if the people punk. You gotta look straight want to cuss and say “Sizzla and upright.” When Bob says did this wrong” speak and let Selassie I he is teaching me me hear. to break free from all physical spiritual and mental slavery. It’s been 30 years since the I have been to and passing of Bob Marley. As have kept the 30th anniver- sary of Zimbabwe independ- someone who has been com- ence because the people said pared to him in terms of your “It’s been 30 years now since impact on the music what are Bob came here and celebrated your thoughts on this occa- the independence and we have sion? been looking for you for about 10 years”. So I respect that and Great thoughts. It is honoura- support it. ble and I send my condolences. And in keeping up this respect You have made over 40 al- for the honourable Robert Nes- bums and now there is a new ta Marley I appreciate him very generation of artists. Do you well and I support because a consider yourself a veteran? tree without a roots is noth- ing. A ship without a rudder is I wouldn’t say that. I leave that that he originates from Italy. It is obvious that Alborosie has In the press release of the new Now that the album is out he given this a lot of thought, and album, Alborosie says that he is preparing for the usual Euro- he wants to see a change in is not thinking about himself pean tour, as he puts it. the direction of reggae music. as doing reggae anymore – he ------is doing Jahspel. “There is the new Jamaican New influences music that the young people “Christians do gospel. I’m a ------want. But it is not the only revolutionary Christian so I do He says that ‘2 Times Revolu- way. I guarantee that on Sun- Jahspel,” he explains like it is tion’ describes his reggae jour- day, they will play old school the most obvious thing in the ney so far. roots and culture here.” world.

“It has some latin and hip-hop He sometimes gives the im- Alborosie is a multi-faceted ingredients. Not very different pression that he is preaching musician. He is usually credit- from my other albums,” he ex- when we speak. He has his ed for production, engineering, plains, and continues: arguments and the goal is set composing and arranging as – reggae needs its roots. well as for playing a number of “I have always been influenced instruments. He has also built by latin music. This is just my “I am on a mission. It is me. I his own guitar, shown on the first tribute. I was like, let’s do am a vintage guy. I am an old album cover. it this time. I have wanted to do man in a young man’s body,” it for a long time. Latin is mag- he chuckles, and adds: “I am going to build a keyboard ic. Latin music is great, and I and drums next,” he chuckles. have it in me.” “The Hennessy hype is not for cause I was sick of Italy. I did ------me. I am not saying that peo- He also has his own studio. He not come here to be an artist. ple should not enjoy the hype, is like the essence of the DIY- I could have been a fisherman, Need a change but let’s not lose the founda- movement. It just happened that I started ------tion.” ALBOROSIE Alborosie is a rebel, and does “I have always done everything lution’ (released on June 20 in at Geejam,” says Alborosie on ------Europe and June 21 in the U.S), the phone from Kingston, and things his own way and in his Does it by by myself. I am in the studio for “I am on a the follow-up to his acclaimed continues: own style. The title of the new six to seven months, so Spe- mission. It is ‘Escape From Babylon’ set album gives a rather straight- Myself cialist comes to the studio and me. I am a vin- released in 2009. This Italian- “Jamaica is the place to be, forward message. ------checks the production. born Jamaican resident uses and I have lived here for eleven tage guy. I am his music to start not one, but years now. First time I visited “We need a revolution,” he an old man in two, revolutions. To United was in 94’. From then on I went says, and explains: a young man’s Reggae he reveals why, and three times a year. Jamaica is also makes a public announce- my home. You will never bring “We need a spiritual revolu- body” ment. me back to Europe. This is me tion and a musical revolution. ------right now. I have a house, a We need to fight back. People Alborosie Alberto D’ Ascola was born in studio. This is where I belong, are not happy. Revolution is Messina on the Italian island even though I have strong - evolution. The music is suffer- craves of Sicily 33 years ago. In the ian roots.” ing, especially reggae. Now revolution year 2000 he decided to take it is hype music, music that ------the next step in life and move Alborosie is relaxed, laughs a is not long lasting. We need to Jamaica. “I needed some- lot and speaks excellent pat- to bring back the sound from Alborosie is back with his up- ois. It is actually hard to hear whence it came.” coming album ‘2 Times Revo- thing different. I came here be- Cool & Deadly rhythm, embrac- ing international artists with a focus on UK lovers rock. Angus KEMAR Taylor spoke with Flava about his new project, what he sees as a crisis in Jamaican music and how illegal downloading “FLAVA” actually helps sales... ------McGREGOR You’re releasing your Cool & Deadly rhythm at the end of the month - tell me about that.

The Cool & Deadly rhythm is something I’ve been working on for over a year now. Like most of my releases it took me quite some time to put togeth- er. This is a totally different re- lease from all Flava McGregor I lose perception, and it is dif- Alborosie has in his career put with Bob Marley. Let me do releases. It doesn’t just fea- ficult. That is why I have a split out loads of duets with both fa- one song with him, please. ture artists from outside of personality – Alberto D’Ascola, miliar artists as well as lesser Give me one a capella. I want Kingston, Jamaica - it features the producer, and Alborosie, known ones. Last year he even to do a form of remix. One day, artists from the UK, Germany, the artist,” he laughs. put out the two disc duet com- one day,” he dreams. Canada and the US. So it’s pilation ‘Alborosie, Specialist something different, interest------ing and more of a lovers rock & Friends’. Interview by Erik Magni No ------tian, and Ginjah. Early in vibe because as you can see expectations his career it was assumed he there’s not much lovers rock Public “We need to was one of Freddie McGregor’s out there right now and lovers ------rock has contributed to reg- Even though Alborosie’s last announcement start making sons yet he has carved his own gae a lot. So I have really taken album was a success and his niche specializing in sweet ------records and time out to work on an inter- concerts are well attended, he On the new album he teams sounding slick roots reggae. making songs national project that can bring explains that he does not have up with Junior Reid and Etana, And unlike most Jamaican pro- that taste because the reggae any expectations on ‘2 Times both artists with whom he has again” ducers he favours one drop industry is kind of down right Revolution’. worked with previously. When over dancehall, only relicking 3 now. Nothing interesting has I ask what artist he would old rhythms - all from his idol Kemar “Flava” McGregor was really come out lately and with “If I like the music, I am good like to get the opportunity to Coxsone Dodd. In the last year, born in Montego Bay and went what has come out I haven’t with it. It is success for me. It work with he is silent for a few however, he has undergone an to school in Germany where really seen a buzz or anything is a celebration for reggae. I do seconds, and then fires off in a acrimonious split from VP re- he studied sound engineer- exciting about it - for reasons I not care for money, f*** mon- serious tone. cords over publishing issues ing. In the last decade he has don’t know. That’s why I’ve tak- ey. I work with the Most High. I using his Twitter and his blog to risen to become one of the big- en time out to work on this pro- never have any expectations in “I am going to make a public make a series of statements on gest producers coming out of ject so it can bring some spice life. Time will tell.” announcement. I want to work the subject. Now he is taking the island, playing a vital part into reggae. in the rise of artists like Gyp- a different direction with his Why did you decide to work no sense. For me, Angus, if it producers more control? ear for music so becoming an with some of the UK’s lovers wasn’t for my talent, I don’t engineer was pretty easy for rock giants like , think I’d even be doing this in- No because I think there are me. I think I was actually born terview. So I really have to pro- still at least 90% of Jamaican to do music and if you are put Janet Kay, Carol Thomp- duce and create original stuff reggae producers who are still on this earth for a mission I son, Peter Hunnigale, Lloyd so the world can see Flava not familiar with these tech- guess it’s going to be easy. So Brown... McGregor’s talent. To go into nologies and still sit down in a it wasn’t too complicated for the studio and relick Sir Cox- chair and let the engineer pro- me because I had the ears and As you know Angus, most of sone’s rhythms is not my thing. duce the record for them. You understood the whole techni- what’s coming out of Jamaica I respect Coxsone and all these can hear it and when you listen cal thing about it. I really have is not interesting. Most of it is producers and I will create a to a Flava McGregor or a few to give it up for German reg- violent. Even the lyrics of most beat that has a vintage sound other producers productions gae. I don’t want to offend any- roots artists isn’t exciting. So I or Studio 1 vibe. If you listen to you can hear that we definitely one but in the last few years I think it it’s time for some lov- a lot of my stuff you will see a get involved. Like when I put think the best reggae produc- ers rock. As you know my name lot of Sir Coxsone’s influence. I out a like the ers produce out of Germany. I got out there through some of really am a fan. I did do some Rub-A-Dub you can hear “Ru- think the producers there have the young artists I developed stuff and I accidentally stum- reach out to a Peter Hunnigale because if you’re a fan eventu- badub, rubadub” so here is a the real authentic vibe that we like Gyptian. Everything that bled upon her record, preview or a Janet Kay, Peter Spence ally you’re going to do some- producer that is into his thing. I the producers in Jamaica have comes out of Jamaica, you can listened and said, “Wow! This or a Roger Robin they’re going thing that they did but I’ve just contribute to a lot of my songs lost. That’s why when you look predict the artists that are go- artist sound real good”. So I to say “Wow - what has Flava covered three Studio 1 tracks. 100% - even down to writing at these big reggae festivals ing to be on the project. It’s the did some research and reached come up with?” because I real- But because Coxsone is some- the lyrics. like Summerjam you find there same thing we do. So this time out to her. It was the same thing ly think these artists are under- one I look up to I don’t do it to aren’t so many artists from Ja- I wanted to reach out to some with Lady Lex. Flava McGregor rated and really talented. You make money from it - I do it to Tell me about your experi- maica. They go in the studio, talented artists and some vet- actually reaches out to these know how the reggae thing in honour him because I really ences as a student in Germa- they develop new talent and erans that 90% of people in artists. That’s what makes a Jamaica operates - a lot of pro- love and respect his work. it’s working for them. Reggae the reggae industry in Jamaica good producer - reaching out to ducers won’t record an artist ny studying engineering and right now is in Europe. It’s go- and the US have never heard of people who have talent. That unless he has a buzz but as I There has been some debate how that helped your career? ing backwards for us because that are huge and very popular. is something I say as a young said, I’m not that kind of pro- about the degree to which What do you think of German we are the ones that are trying So I made some contacts and producer who has made a lot ducer. So the spotlight is going to do reggae now. We’re doing Coxsone was involved in the reggae right now? reached to Janet Kay and Car- of impact on this industry. It’s to be on the UK artists because a lot of R&B and calling it one- ol Thompson’s manager and very important to go out there they’re talented - and I hope I day to day production of the I was a radio DJ and used to drop, and we’re doing a lot of said, “Hey, I’d like to work on a and find people with talent - don’t offend anyone by this but music. Today being a producer do a lot of and had an hip-hop and calling it dance- project with these artists” and not wait for them to come to - they’re easier to market and is more hands on. What is a hall. that’s where it started. I sent me. co-operate and I like that. typical day for you? them some stuff and they liked it so now we’re developing a A lot of UK artists don’t even You’ve cited Coxsone Dodd as To some degree I think you’re working relationship - because like to be referred to as UK an influence whose rhythms right about that. Producers this is not going to be the only now I think are more involved. thing they’re going to be on. artists as they see it as sec- get relicked time and again ondary. Do you think this yet you’ve only done it once Me, I’m involved in my produc- tion 100%. All my beats, ideas, You’ve also linked up with project can help change that? or twice. artists and lyrics - the way a some rising artists like Peter bass or a drum should play - It’s definitely going to change I understand the business and it’s all my ideas. I’m an engi- Spence, Adele Harley and Lady that because Flava McGregor I know how it goes. I went to Lex... neer/producer/writer/arranger is a leader and not a follower school for this. So why would - I’m everything. in the industry. And for oth- I get up every day and lick a Adele, I was actually going er producers in Jamaica and whole rhythm that another Is it technology that has given through iTunes looking for the US to see Flava McGregor producer has created? It makes focus on producing music and taking care of my intellectual property. But apart from that everything is good. I have to focus on producing new artists that have talent, who love this and want to take it to another level. Not an artist where you put the time and then tomor- row they’re going to sign with another company or disre- spect you. Most of the artists What’s the solution? It’s not an education issue ley and the ones that are con- now. I think I’m going to be the time out, look back and see we work with have a history of because I know a lot of these only producer who is ever go- what other producers are do- doing that us as producers. So trolled by major companies. I’m reaching out to new people We need more producers be- guys and they’re from an up- ing to stand up and fight for my ing and what artists are doing town background and went to rights. I’m not going to wait un- wrong so that when you come now. Not Jamaican artists any- cause a lot of guys out there Is this to do with illegal more. I’m going to take it global. aren’t producers. They have school. It’s just a hype. As you til I pass away and my kids have back you really know what to a little laptop and have a pro- know a lot of stuff that happens downloading? to take this up and battle with do. So it’s not doing that, all After the Cool & Deadly what gram, they play a beat and say in the reggae scene in Jamaica these people and lose. While I’m doing is making sure I se- they’re a producer. And a lot of is hype. I don’t know how to Illegal downloading actually I’m here with life I’m going to cure my rights. In terms of fo- have you got in the pipeline? artists have to live up to their explain it but they really need helps but record companies defend and go for what’s mine. cussing on my music I’m on own standards and realize to find themselves I think. The use it as an excuse not to pay it. I just took a break and I’m I’m working on a lot of stuff. A that by going around record- producers who can do the job artists. If an artist like Beres You talked about the need to sure even you Angus have to new rhythm called the 80s Rock ing for these so-called produc- and the artists that have disap- gets 10 million downloads make records. Is there a dan- take a break! (laughs) But this which is going to be the next big pointed their fans rights now is where I have a problem. For release. When I talk about the ers - I’m not saying it’s going that equals 5 million sales. ger that these types of dis- to damage their career - it’s need to look into themselves the last 13-14 years now I’ve 80s Rock you know what I’m and go back in the studio. We putes can cut into time spent been in the studios producing, talking about - it will be an 80s already damaged their career. Speaking of record companies It’s damaged at least 90% of need to start making records making music? producing, producing and not sound but more modern be- their careers - these beats they now. The hype is not working. you have spoken on your blog taking enough time. But at the cause I think we need that. We put out. It’s not been properly Reggae out of Jamaica is not about VP Records a lot this Kemar “Flava” McGregor is mu- same time every time I go in need to bring back that authen- produced and it’s not reggae. doing well at all. When I look at year. Have you resolved your sic so I don’t really think it will the studio and make a record tic vibe that people go to buy. the charts - not the local chart issues with VP? take away much of my time. it’s like I’m adding more prob- We need to start making re- but the international sales But sometimes I really do need lems to it because the ones cords and making songs again. Have you tried to educate and chart - there is hardly anybody breaks because I can’t get up before I didn’t solve them. guide other producers? No and that is something that from Jamaica there. The ones every day and do it. Some- So it’s just issue, issue, issue Interview by Angus Taylor are still there are Bob Mar- is not going to be resolved for times you really have to take coming up. So I think I have to The Fittest Thanks strumentation. It contains 10 Earl Sixteen tunes, each followed by its dub version, or, as in one case, & Praise by its U Roy deejay cut. Hard- core followers of JahSolidRock and Not Easy At All will notice some familiar riddims. Chang- Gappy Ranks ing Times utilizes the backing from Chezidek’s Live and Learn A more person- cent reggae harder to swallow. into the cheekily boastful una- and Rise Up is based on Gifted But accept them for what they shamedly commercial world of Ones by Apple Gabriel. A bunch al, equally im- are, and this is a more person- dancehall. There’s ridiculously of the riddims are new, and I lit- pressive second al, equally impressive piece of catchy single with Russian Tun erally get the chills each time I work. work. Up whose thumping beats and hear Modern Slavery. Clavinet, lyrics celebrate the excess of saxophone and a pulsating rid- As with Stereo there is familiar being on top. More of a test for dim similar to early 80’s Sly & and new material. This time, the purists will be Animal Sons Robbie. Earl Sixteen’s pleading however, we hear a variety of production The Road which voice and the moaning saxo- producers instead of just two. sounds like a flashback to 90s phones are intertwined in a Five of the tracks have already Ibiza. But as a proud member perfect combination. An excel- been released as singles (two of the internet generation, lent mix of hopelessness and – the Macro Marco production Gappy sees Jamaican music joy. Modern Slavery is also a Stinkin Rich and Special Deliv- as compatible with anything, good example of Earl Sixteen’s ery ballad Long Time appear- while the accompanying words conscious lyrics that concerns ing on ‘Rising Out Of The Ghet- are worthy reality fare. Finally, issues such as the situation to’) while a further 9 are fresh. there’s a return to the one-drop in Africa, slackness, child la- There are the three acts to the for deejay duet Could A Run bor and trafficking. He sings album. An opening one drop Away with Delly Ranx, dealing A perfect fit for the full length set from Apple “there are more slaves today, Gappy Ranks’ first album ‘Put segment includes the title track with past hardships overcome. Gabriel. Both praised by crit- than there were four centuries The Stereo On’ was a real (produced by the UK’s Jazzwad) Closing acoustic guitar driv- Earl Sixteen. ics. Now these Dutch fellows away…trafficking drugs just to crowd pleaser, combining vin- and Special Delivery’s One Day en lullaby Better Must Come drop another scorcher – ‘The survive” and calls repeatedly tage Studio 1, Treasure Isle and At A Time (on the Wailers’ Small backs off from the heavily elec- You can’t go wrong with a Fittest’ from foundation artist for a solution. rhythms from Peck- Axe rhythm, a nod to Stereo’s tronic arrangements, telling showcase album. And cer- Earl Sixteen, responsible for ings and Stringray with his smash hit on Soul Rebel, Heav- ghetto people to follow their tainly not if the production is the wicked, and recently re- This is the third stunning al- contemporary lyrical themes. en In Her Eyes). On the former, dreams. If you like modern reg- handled by Not Easy At All and issued, album ‘Reggae Sound’ bum released by JahSolidRock For his second effort, how- Gappy shows his gratitude for gae you’ll love this record. And Earl Sixteen is responsible for and several timeless tunes. and Not Easy At All. I have a ever, Gappy clearly hankered the way he has turned himself if you don’t, remember this is the vocal duties. The collabora- ‘The Fittest’ does not resemble feeling there is more to come, to revisit the current one-drop around from troubled youth the same Gappy who gave you tion between the JahSolidRock the hardcore riddims and pro- even though it will be a tough and dancehall sounds of his EP to music star. For the latter he Stereo and give it a chance. label and production crew Not duction style courtesy of the task to outshine any of these ‘Rising Out Of The Ghetto’. Yes, looks back on his life as a work You may thank him one day. Easy At All has certainly born late . The sound three releases. some will find the treated vo- in progress, asking for for- cals, slick digital backings and some sweet tasting fruit. First on ‘The Fittest’ is airy, relaxed giveness for the mistakes he’s Review by Angus Taylor the Chezidek album and then and smooth with great live in- Review by Erik Magni big pop radio choruses of re- made. The second act takes us Chino Debut album Frankie Paul A mixed bag from Chino. Most Wanted Most dancehall is released as singles or on one riddim com- Some timeless pilations, and it’s been a while Album after album and hit after Frankie Paul ‘Most Wanted’ since I heard a full length al- classics and a hit followed. Among them the contains some timeless clas- bum from a dancehall artist. good introduc- energetic Tidal Wave for George sics and is a good introduction I believe that Busy Signal’s tion to this Phang, the relick to this great singer. ‘D.O.B’ was my latest dancehall Cassandra for Steely & Clevie acquaintance as a full length great singer. and the radio friendly Sara for Review by Erik Magni album. King Jammy. Frankie Paul made his record And now it’s time for anoth- debut only in his teens. He er one, since Daniel “Chino” was influenced by singers such McGregor’s self titled debut al- as Dennis Brown and Stevie bum has hit the streets. Wonder, but soon developed his own charismatic and more The Busy Signal set and Chi- dancehall oriented style. no’s new album have one thing in common – both albums wan- In the mid 80’s he scored some der in several different direc- huge hit songs for producer tions, which is good, and bad. Henry “Junjo” Lawes, including Jump No Fence and the ganja On Chino, dancehall and one ing Me Insane featuring sweet This is a diverse set that offers anthem Pass the Tu Sheng drop is the foundation. But Chi- voiced Denyque for one. It is something for everyone, and I Peng. Both are included on no and his producing brother heavily and heavenly inspired would have been real pleased Greensleeves’ recent Frankie Stephen “” McGregor by the & Ch- if those rock guitars would Paul ‘Most Wanted’ set. have added R&B, hip-hop beats evelle Franklyn crossover hit have been left out. and some hip-hop rhyming. Mr. Loverman released in the After working with dancehall They also show an unhealthy early 90’s. Review by Erik Magni don Lawes he moved on and interest in rock guitars, as in started working for a major- My Soul, Badness and the pre- Other highlights include club ity of Jamaica’s top producers, viously released Never Change banger I Am with its French- and he was extremely produc- (From Mawning). tinged guitar and accordion, tive during these years. the R&B smooth Mus Come Chino consists of 15 tunes and Back and the upbeat one drop contains some real gems. The Leaving ( the Link). 90’s dancehall tribute Driv- Luciano The Return of Rub-A-Dub Market Sound System Luciano’s most Vienna. And at times the anti- slackness lyrics to opener Rub- European out- A-Dub Market could be aimed ing yet is an- at the exalted status of cul- Scratch other success. tural reggae beyond the island We’re not tem Scratch’. Sound quality is sterling roots number that is when Luci sings “Carry me mu- better throughout (although reminiscent of Leo’s sic over Rub A Dub market and scraping the audiophiles always seem to single Perilous Time. The mel- the music sell off”. bottom of the find something to moan about ancholy Darkness In The City barrel when it when it comes to reggae) and by has always The more critical stance on re- the choice of material – almost been one of my favourite early ligious behaviour exhibited on comes to Lee everything is previously unre- Black Ark tracks. It’s a harrow- ‘United States Of Africa’s King Perry releases, leased – is excellent. Although ing tune that paints a vivid pic- Of Kings continues with Praise all of the tracks are great, a few ture of urban violence on top of Jah Any Time (“Don’t wait for Luciano interludes; Feeling because Scratch For Love rides the modern ska deserve special mention. The a bouncy, minimalist keyboard devil slide tackle before you go had a very first revelation is the previously . Mistakenly credited to running to the Father for a mira- shuffle of IrieVibrations Work Off rhythm, used on the deep barrel. unreleased Righteous Land by Judge Winchester on the 1974 cle”). Meanwhile the more per- Aleas Jube; while Jube’s vocals Black Art single, it’s nice to sonal side of faith, reflected in Perfect set; whereas Love Me Or Leave Me and Love Paradise upsets with are nothing special, the jaunty see this haunting roots track 2008’s Dean Fraser production rhythm track is a delight, es- see the light of day again. And ‘Jah is My Navigator’, makes an are both minor key romantic the amazing sequel to ‘Sound efforts in fine style. 2011 is the pecially when stripped down of course there are the dub Luciano received great acclaim appearance with Hard Road, System Scratch, Return Of year when the Jamaican media on its dub version, Righteous plates and alternate mixes of for 2010’s two albums: ‘United on the Jungle Skunk rhythm - Sound System Scratch’. This woke up to the existence of for- Rocking. Junior Murvin’s terrif- well known tunes such as I’ve States Of Africa’ (produced by which is very close to Ernest incredible collection of Black eign countries’ longstanding ic version of ’ Got The Groove by George Paris-born Frenchie) and ‘Write Wilson’s I Know Myself. And as Ark dub plates and heavy roots and successful reggae indus- sublime People Get Ready is Faith, ’ Enter The My Name’ (for Georgia-based with ‘Write My Name’, there are music is now available on CD, tries, and some listeners will here as Get Ready in a seldom- Dragon and Scratch’s powerful Rawle Collins). Now he has songs that hint at frustration MP3 and double LP; serious hope that Luci takes his new- heard alternate mix. Another Jah Jah Ah Natty Dread, here in taken his penchant for working that the righteous message collectors will want to check for found vigour back to Jamaica revelation comes from Full Ex- previously unheard, extra Up- outside Jamaica even further, isn’t getting through. For Voice the limited edition double LP. for his next work. But in the perience vocalist Candy Mac- setting, outer space style. In a teaming up with Austria’s IrieV- Of A Trumpet Luci compares As if all of this wasn’t enough, meantime this is another good kenzie, who performs a gritty word, outstanding. ‘Return Of ibrations (who were behind himself to Moses, trying to lead Pressure Sounds have also outing from Jah Messenger, cover of Jeff Barry’s Walkin’ In Sound System Scratch’ proves Perfect’s ‘Born Dead With Life’ the people to better things… come up with a cool 7” single perhaps not as “revelationary” The Sun, retitled Long Enough. that we’re not scraping the bot- in 2008 – one of the best long- of Strong Drink, a melodica cut as ‘United States Of Africa’ nor Mackenzie’s brassy vocals give tom of the barrel when it comes players of that year). Where But unlike ‘United States Of of Junior Murvin’s False Teach- as consistent as Perfect’s ‘Born the song an authenticity that to Lee Perry releases, because the previous two records used Africa’, which had only one er featuring a mind-bending Dead With Life’, yet still nice to is lacking on the original tune; Scratch had a very deep barrel. Jamaican musicians like Style love song, there are plenty of dub plate version on the B- your ear. perhaps Scratch was inspired Scott and Sly & Robbie, these mellower offerings here. Truly side. ‘Return Of Sound System by the later B.B. King version. Review by Mick Sleeper backing tracks were built by Love Someone showcases one Scratch’ is arguably a stronger collection than ‘Sound Sys- Leo Graham fans will be hap- IrieVibrations at their studio in of several gruff spoken-word Review by Angus Taylor py to hear Revelation Time, a Sizzla The Scriptures Sizzla Kalonji of a comeback in recent times a predominately laid back style having managed to register and that, when linked to these forges typical several significant singles and kind of big sounding and some- brilliance. - All the while remaining very what old school compositions active in recording and tour- provided by John John is just Fans of the once over-active ge- ing as well. With that, it would very attractive musical crafts- nius that is Sizzla Kalonji have figure that an album would manship which is sure to thrill perhaps taken both he and his be a perfect way to even fur- older fans of the artist, and per- immense talents for granted as ther reignite passions across haps newer ones as well. You’ll once upon a time in the not too the world for this undeniable go quite deep into this one distant past he was counted force in Reggae music and to before you reach a tune which upon for three or four generally do that, Sizzla has returned isn’t to a high standard and very good releases in any giv- to a very familiar source, al- several highlights are along en year and, looking back, lis- though one who makes his the way. One of the very first is teners rarely went more than a debut producing an album for the sublime In Jamaica, which four or five month period with- him. Lloyd ‘John John’ James finds Sizzla giving praise to life out a new album. Times have Jr. is well known as being the in the sweetest place on earth most certainly changed these son of, arguably, the greatest via a version of the venerable days as, shockingly, the last producer the genre has ever Father Jungle Rock Riddim. legitimate release from August known, King Jammy, but he’s Town’s most famous resident also a very strong maestro in “Things run different in came nearly seventeen months his own right. Having previous- Jamaica Black people live ly worked with Kalonji on an ago in the form of the decent decent in Jamaica Ah beer impressive string of singles of does add to the song as well. would rank exceedingly well vaguely ironic lyric, “Jah bear old school set, ‘Crucial Times’, superstar come from Jamai- in January 2010. Seventeen various styles [several of which The classically ‘rinsed’ Cleanse in comparison to anything Siz- my witness. Most High cleanse months, just four years ago or would appear on ‘Waterhouse ca Badmind people stand far My Soul is another fine tune zla has done over the course of all sickness. Go and read your so, would have been enough Redemption’, the 2006 King from Jamaica” and one which may not [but it the past decade. And they both scriptures - Go and read your for him to reel off six or seven Jammy helmed set], John John may be] be quite vintage ma- are, in their own respective scriptures”. Its irony exists albums, including one poten- now acts as the primary ‘care- Just before that is the album’s terial, is extremely close and, ways, exemplary of most of the that his music, as a whole, has tial all-time classic. However, taker’ of an entire album and sole official combination, the much like the vast majority of tunes on the album - They’re been a musical scripture for with that being said, the time given the obviously high level very heavy The World is Watch- the album on which it appears, very well done and exist some- millions of people around the has definitely added to antici- of musical chemistry between ing which features Canadian is ultimately pointed in the where in a healthy and vast world for years and after listen- pation for the next album from the two, the results should Hip-Hopper, Peter Jackson, right direction in terms of its spiritual context. Other high- ing to ‘The Scriptures’, the re- Sizzla, whatever it may be, and come to the surprise of no one. and is this very large piece quality. lights include the gorgeous Jah sponse to his urging may pre- now that wait is over. on which Kalonji reminds all The album pinnacles between Is My Shield, the strange love vailingly be amongst his fans: ‘The Scriptures’ is a very very that, no matter who you may two extremely impressive song, Let It Be and Bless ‘We just did’. Well done. ‘The Scriptures’ is the brand good album. be, someone has their eyes on songs What A Whoa and the You Mama. new superbly titled set from your actions, so make sure your previous hit single, Music In Review by Ras Achis the legendary fiery chanter Throughout the thirteen tracks actions come from a righteous My Soul from the Zion Gate Rid- There’s also the title track who has been enjoying a bit on this album, Sizzla maintains place. For his part, Jackson dim. Both of these selections on which Kalonji utters the Mista Savona Presents Ziggi Recado Fascinating al- bum from Ziggi Warn The Nation Recado. Heavyweight sounds from There’s a new Ziggi in town. His last name is Recado and Down Under. he has got a brand new rein- vented sound on his third al- Australian and Melbourne- bum. It’s an adventurous blend resident Mista Savona rose to of reggae, soul, hip-hop, funk worldwide prominence with and rock. One thing that has the Fire Dragon riddim, an in- remained from his previous al- spired and clever relick of the bums is his vocal style. It’s re- Drum Song riddim, originally bellious, cool and edgy. recorded at Studio One. This percussion driven Middle East- Most of the production is han- ern flavored masterpiece was dled by Ziggi Recado himself in 2009 voiced by huge artists and the majority of the tracks such as Sizzla and Burro Ban- are recorded together with ton. his live band The Renaissance Band. And the live feeling is Their cuts are, along with 14 present through most of the al- others, represented on the bum. Ziggi Recado celebrates in its instrumentation. Mista Savona produced compi- a blessing to hear Sizzla when one drop Chant Rasta Sound, musicianship and careful pro- Whether or not you like the lation titled ‘Warn the Nation’, he’s on top of . one of the last cuts from the duction. There are pleasant Real Talk showcases his vocal genre mixing of distorted released last year in Australia, late Alton Ellis. surprises on almost every sin- capabilities, when he sings funk rock, psychedelic Prince- and now in Europe and the U.S. ‘Warn the Nation’ is a con- gle track. both in a high Prince style and styled soul and reggae riddims scious, raw and dense reggae Mista Savona has managed to then switches to his usual sing- you have to be fascinated by This is a multi-riddim album, album that deals with environ- produce a compilation that is Just listen to the beautiful and jay approach. this bold, remarkable and un- and the only riddim that is rep- mental issues, injustice and in- both uniform and diverse. It is organic Can’t Stop Me Now expected set of songs. resented with more than two equality. remarkable that this gem has built around a laid back rock Reggae purists also get their cuts is Fire Dragon. Apart from been hidden Down Under for guitar. It starts with guitar, share too. The heartfelt single Ziggi Recado has been avail- the aforementioned versions, It is heavily influenced by hip- so long. moaning saxophone and funky Mary produced by Special De- able in the Netherlands since there is an semi-instrumental hop, dancehall and dubstep as drums. Then it’s just Ziggi livery, the Omar Perry/Tippa April and was released interna- lead cut and well as Indian and Middle East- ‘Warn the Nation’ was released Recado and the guitar. Along Irie duet Jah Alone on Curtis tionally on June 6th. Sizzla also does it acoustic ern music. Just listen to the on June 10 by Soulbeats Re- the way it adds organ, percus- Lynch’s Gorilla riddim and the style, on a lick where he is in pounding Stumble & Fall (En- cords. sion, drums, bass and strings. pumping Maikal X duet This Review by Erik Magni fine form, jumping from total emies Scatter Mix) featuring You’ve to wait over three min- Year are contemporary one despair to joyfulness. It’s such Junie Platinum or the straight Review by Erik Magni utes until the song is complete drops in fine style. Al Campbell, Tony Roots and formed from the 3 of the venue’s regular ensembles, dubbed The Christine Miller in London Artist Band. In January Al Camp- bell appeared in Shoreditch’s Al Campbell is rarely men- Assisted by the legendary Humanity. And while he is a East Village singing brilliantly tioned by the casual follower Ruff Cutt band he crooned master singer Mr Campbell over Peckings rhythm tracks. of reggae singers. But if you his way through smashes put his pipes to other uses. With some of the country’s most add up the sheer number of like Gee Baby and Late Night He imitated the sounds of a respected live musicians a whole killer tunes he has recorded , along with heavy- effect and a bass guitar new level was reached. he belongs in the pantheon weight collectors’ pieces such during Ruff Cutt’s many ex- for sure. The smooth-voiced as Jammin’ and You’re Mine, pertly rendered dub versions By Angus Taylor maestro performed for nearly as well as new material from - especially the iconic storm- Photos by Adelina Royal 2 hours on Bank Holiday Sun- his forthcoming Peckings al- lashed Crucial Bunny Version & Véronique Skelsey day at the Hootananny, giving bum ‘Man From Studio 1’. to You’re Mine. a 5 song encore yet leaving his fans shouting for more “Me born in music” said Al - Promoter Cecil Reuben ar- hits. the son of a gospel preacher ranged a particularly strong - reminding the people of his support act for the evening Strolling on stage in an oat- multiple lovers rock number too. The UK’s Christine Miller meal suit and straw hat, Mr ones in the UK. A further hint and Tony Roots (with Sister Campbell soon broke a sweat at his past came with a quick Naffi-I) played their bottom- doling out classics in lovers, a capella of his old band- heavy culture music backed roots and rub-a-dub style. mate the late Prince Lincoln’s by a special supergroup Best of the Best 2011 The 5th anniversary of the Best of the Best Weekend kicked off Thursday night, May 26 on South Beach with a myriad of events happen- ing at local clubs. The “Big Show” 2011 featured two blockbuster concerts on the weekend at Bicentennial Park in downtown Miami, with hip hop and rap ruling on Satur- day while island vibes flowed on Sunday. Visitors to Miami Beach enjoyed an eclectic mix of street cafes and restaurant and an array nightlife choices, with official Best of the Best Weekend 2011 events at Cam- eo and Mansion nightclubs on South Beach and Opium, nestled in the Seminole Hard Rock complex on 441 in Davie. As any back-yard playa who’s ever organized a bad-ass par- ty will tell you, you can’t have a really great holiday blowout without a crowd that’s ready to party; food with soul, Ja- maican style, which means jerked just about anything, fried fish, corn on the cob, sugar cane and fresh coconut Reggae but Alison Hinds, the unmistakable brand of lov- water, and the entertainment undisputed queen of Soca. ers’ rock, the Marley broth- must include a touch of rap, a Now we’re all lucky enough ers presented modern urban few dancehall DJs, some of the here in South Florida to have reggae sounds and finally the biggest names in reggae and the Marley family as locals elder statesman of the dance- hopefully, beautiful weather. but any time any of them per- hall, Shabba Ranks, closed form, the crowd comes out the show with his distinctive Needless to say, the Best of to welcome them. The Carib- gravel-toned vocals. I did the Best fest had it all. This bean took over downtown Mi- wonder why every other word annual Memorial Day bash at ami with a serious dancehall he sang was “Shabba” but Bicentennial Park delivered bashment party that brought I guess that’s just his thing. not only Damian and Stephen in fans from all over. The ladies Marley, reigning kings of choice, Sanchez, provided his Text by Susan De Leon Photos by Gail Zuker Reggae 4 Japan Shema singing backup vocals. Ruff Kut Band who backed the Freddie’s children are really whole show with stamina and making a name for themselves vigor! in the industry! Finally, ’s energy Japanese dancehall group Fire- ignited the auditorium! Then, ball captured the stage in ¾ looking dapper in a white blazer length cut off pants and sneek- and white hat, NAS joined Dami- ers. The crowd responded to an onstage and the crowd went them and sang along to Jimmy wild when they started singing Cliff’s tune You Can Get It If You Promised Land. Really Want. Chin of the team Irish & Chin Duane Stephenson did a cool came onstage at the end of the set featuring Dean Fraser on show giving thanx to all who Sax. Tanya Stephens crooned made this show possible. Once out her hits. Gramps and Peetah again, history in the making for Morgan did some wicked har- Reggae music! monizing. Mr Vegas entered the stage trashed and ready, com- Text and photos by Gail Zuker York College Auditorium in plete with suit, dress shirt, tie, Queens New York was overflow- and sunglasses. ing its capacity of 1300 Sunday Maxi Priest did his thing, joined evening, June 5, 2011. onstage by Red Fox and then The event to aid Japan’s Earth- Beniton the Menace joined him quake victims was a huge suc- onstage to sing Shabba’s part in cess in terms of aid to Japan and Housecall. entertainment to all who attend- Freddie McGregor decked out ed. Each artist that performed in red did a great set and the mentioned a few words about audience joined in singing his how huge Reggae was in Japan many hits. Tarrus Riley was well and how the Japanese people received and Dean Fraser ap- embraced Reggae music. They peared to be enjoying himself said that Japan has done so and having a wonderful evening. much for reggae! Mighty Crown, top Japanese dancehall sound took the stage dressed system co-organized the event in red from head to toe. He along with Irish & Chin & VP Re- was doing his set when an an- cords. Alaine & Dutch reggae nouncement was made that singer Ziggi Ricado both gave Shabba Ranks was in the house. excellent performances. New Shabba took the stage with Ca- Kingston started the show and pleton was still there. They backed Ziggi with positive ener- shook hands and Shabba did gy. Chino & Stephen McGregor quite a set, both artists blazing excited the audience with sister the stage lyrically. Nuff props to UCLA Jazz Reggae Festival

This year’s festival marked the 25th year that the UCLA stu- dent body volunteers produced this fabulous day of fun in the sun. There were lots of ven- dors, art projects and of course the much anticipated perfor- mances of some of reggae mu- sic’s finest entertainers. I arrived early and had lots of walking to do to get my press credentials and VIP armband. We photographers were cor- ralled to the side of the stage and were ushered into the pho- to pit for the first three songs of each artist. The VIP lounge was quite a walk from the press area so I used some of the time during the opening artists to get some nourishment and rest songs performed were: “These singer and main creative force before the main artists were to Streets” and “It’s A Pity”. within the band, David Hinds, perform. flashed his hip-length locks Now it was time for all the girls’ and belted out the lyrics to his First up on my agenda was The favorite boyfriend, Gyptian! many hit songs, including… Wailings Souls, a veteran reg- And all the girls did scream as “Chant A Psalm”, “Blues Dance gae band that has had multiple the very popular Gyptian took Raid” and “Stepping Out”. I reggae Grammy nominations. to the stage. He opened his was able to get backstage at The opened with their rock- show with “Nah Let Go” and the end of the day to chat with ing reggae hit “She Pleases all the girls, especially, sang some of the members of Steel Me”. They performed such along to every word of his song. Pulse and give out some pho- classics as “Old Broom” and Some of the other mega hits tos. BIG UP Steel Pulse, you “Picky Picky Head”. They had he performed were “Hold You” have been close to my heart the massive sold out crowd on and “Beautiful Lady”. The girls for many years. Thanks for the their feet dancing right from swooned as he pranced across inspiration. the start. the stage, sometimes flashing his locks. He gave an outstand- I drove home listening to ‘True Next, the very sultry and sexy, ing performance! Democracy’ to keep the vibe Tanya Stephens, had the going! crowd winding to her charm- Finally, headliner and Grammy ing dancehall style. She loves winner, Steel Pulse took to the to talk to the audience, espe- stage opening with “Find It… cially addressing the males in Quick”. The UK’s finest reg- Text and photos the audience, telling them how gae artists performed flaw- by Jan Salzman much women appreciate them. lessly and always have fan- Some of her most popular tastic stage presence. Lead Upper Park Reggae Festival

Since when the most important promise of the Italian reggae CLIFF! The whole audience sang Italian reggae festival, the Ro- scene that performed on the along with his idol, some of the totom Sunsplash has moved to stage of Upper Park was An- most beautiful successes like Spain in 2010, Italy didn’t give ansi, a young boy that partici- The Harder They Come, I Can up to the good vibrations of pated to the last edition of the See Clearly Now, Many Rivers reggae music. That’s why new Sanremo, the world famous To Cross, with an exciting per- festivals are taking place all festival of the Italian song, formance of the Nyabinghi an- over the country. bringing there reggae music them Rivers Of Babylon and the with his tune Il Sole Dentro, an world famous Reggae Night. The Upper Park, a brand new unusual genre for this kind of festival at his first edition, took festival. Time is going fast and it’s time place on June 18th. It was de- for the last performance of this signed and realized by a group Then Boom Boom Vibration -an wonderful reggae marathon…. of young lovers of reggae mu- Italian reggae band that recent- And the better way to end this sic, with the intention to pro- ly collaborated and recorded day is calling on state the art- mote the various styles and their new album ‘Vibra Unica’ ist that the whole reggae world many facets of this music, to with the Italian/international envy to Italy: his name is… help it to grow and diversify reggae star Alborosie- went on ALBOROSIE! Acclaimed and over the time. Aimed to vet- stage. Despite to the swelter- celebrated by the crowd, and erans of the genre, but also ing heat and the scorching sun, happy to come back to Italy to newer listener of this mu- the Italian reggae massive was and Bologna, Alborosie per- sic, this event was a big reg- large, dancing and breathing formed some tracks of his just gae party, an open space day, the good vibes. released new album ‘2 Times with a rich line-up of national Revolution’, but also some of and international artists, a 12 They prepared in a masterly his greatest hits and among hours of live in a single day, in way the massive to the first them, the inevitable Kingston the beautiful and historic lo- awaited headliner, the king of Town. cation of Arena Parco Nord in ska ! A very Bologna. charismatic man, with a great It’s midnight and this day is vitality, performing some of almost over… it’s time to turn In this beautiful hot and sunny his historical hits, dancing and off the music and turn off the Saturday of June, several thou- feeling the great vibes together lights... but nobody and noth- sands of young and old people with the massive. ing could ever turn off the great came to attend to the reggae- vibes and the feelings that we marathon! The Live session Another Italian artist, loved lived in Bologna today! And we was opened by a young Italian and appreciated by the youths, are already looking forward the reggae band, The Kingstoned, took the stage: Brusco and the second edition of Upper Park followed by the veteran of the Roots in the Sky preparing the reggae festival that will surely Italian reggae, the SUD SOUND massive for the next perfor- take place in the next year! See SYSTEM from Salento (the Ja- mance: the second headliner you there…! maica of Italy). Then it was the and most awaited artist was time for other new artists of the ready to take the stage: I’m Text and photos by Nadia Italian reggae scene such as talking about a legend of the Bestjamaica Gamba The Lenk, Nico Royale, reggae music, coming back to Lion D and Miss Linda. Another Italy after several years: JIMMY Reggae Film Festival selves a holiday at Couples Ho- dorsement, while Rastafarian US feature film ROCKSTEADY tels. The Audience Popularity Elder, Bro. Sam Clayton of the – THE MOVIE starred Cedric vote went overwhelmingly to Mystic Revelation of Rasta- Sanders (THE SOCIAL NET- The 4th Jamaica REGGAE FILM Make A Film In 24 Hours com- the entry STAY FIRM by Craig fari who was featured in one WORK) as a Jamaican-fathered FESTIVAL was held May 23-28 petition and its sponsorship by ‘Amaziyah The Great’ Kirkland, of the night’s documentaries, young man who tries to be- at Studio 38, New Kingston. RBTT/RBC Bank; winner of last year’s compe- brought Ethiopian blessings. come a stock car racer to pay The venue was a tree-covered * The large number of entries tition. He received a DIGICEL his mother’s mortgage. This open courtyard in the PULSE film found favour with the modelling agency complex, from European countries in- Blackberry Bold as his prize. cluding Britain, Spain, Poland, audience, thanks to Sanders decorated by Props & More screen presence, as well as with a film theme including a Slovenia, and the surprising ------entry from Tehran, Iran; the rocking reggae soundtrack massive reel of film and small- Opening Night by Steel Pulse — whose lead er reels hung around the open * The ‘discovery’ of new Jamai------singer David Hinds has a sup- courtyard. The stage was di- can director Vanessa Phillips, The Opening Night ceremony porting role in them which won vided into performance and winning both the RBTT/RBC 24 was hosted by Jamaica Film the SUGASHAK Award for Best screening halves, with films Hours Film competition and the Academy Chairman, celebrat- Soundtrack. Both Sanders and shown on a screen designed Best Short Feature awards; time. This year’s ‘element’ was: ed actor Carl Bradshaw who the film’s director Mustapha like a clapper board, while ban- SOMETHING MUSICAL and with starred in the historic Jamaican Khan attended the Festival, * The presence of film makers ners promoting the event’s this in mind, teams set off. They film THE HARDER THEY COME. bringing some Hollywood from the USA, UK, Canada, An- sponsors provided a backdrop were certainly inspired by the He spoke of the link between stardust to the event. The tigua, Spain including Holly- for photographs of the many prize of JA$50,000 offered to music and film, saying “Film short feature DINNER by Anti- wood actor Cedric Sanders; celebrities and VIPs attending. the winner by the Bank as part is a composition of sight and guan director Tameka Jarvis- A bar offering a wide variety * The sponsorship support of its on-going support of the sound. We Jamaicans have George was shown next. This Film screenings began with the of drinks, and a spacious yard by the Jamaica National Com- creative arts and especially of conquered the world with our video-poem about a woman’s animated film BAD INFLUENCE that encouraged socializing, mission for UNESCO, DIGICEL, emerging young talent. The fol- sounds, now it is time to do anticipation of her husband’s by self-taught Jamaican anima- made the venue was a perfect SUGASHAK RECORDS, IRIE-FM lowing morning 12 of the origi- it with sight.” Guest speaker homecoming and dinner prep- tor Reinardo Chung. This short home for the week-long event. and international companies nal 15 returned with completed Spanish Ambassador H.E. Cel- aration, raised some eyebrows films, which were then sent to tale of a would-be gunman is Declared a success by the Ja- REGGAE FILMS UK, H&H Pic- sa Nuno Garcia, reminded of due to a small moment of im- a judging panel composed of told with 3-dimensional, all-ac- maica Film Academy organiz- tures In Motion and Tait Com- the historic links between Ja- plied sexual intimacy, but this the festival’s international film tion movement, a rich dialogue ers, the Festival accomplished puter Services maica and Spain, pointing out in no way affected the positive guests, Cordel Green, head of and a stunning conclusion to several of the JFA’s goals for that her country now hosts Ro- reception given the director of Jamaica’s Broadcasting Com- the story, and received loud increasing and improving the ------totom — the her film. mission, and Festival Director applause that showed why it Jamaican film industry, and world’s largest reggae festival. Make a film Barbara Blake Hannah. The en- won the DIGICEL Best Anima------included important cinematic “The potential of Jamaican cul- in 24 hours tries were screened each night tion award. This was followed Festival moments. These included: ture has not been economised ------of the Festival and as it was too and exploited fully yet, and by HOLDING ON TO JAH, the Night 2 * The entry of 11 Jamaican films, The festival opened on Jamai- difficult to select only five fi- the combination of the film in- one-hour documentary by US nalists, six were chosen for the director Roger Hall that uses ------an increase from 2 in inaugural ca’s Labour Day, May 23 with dustry and reggae holds an To the great regret of the Fes- final cut. interviews, music and historic year 2008; the start of the RBTT/RBC Make endless array of possibilities.” tival organizers, Antiguan film a Film In 24 Hours competition. RBTT/RBC Senior Vice Presi- footage to tell the story of the * The emergence of a strong The outstanding winner was makers Mitzie and Howard Al- Fifteen teams of young film dent Roxanne Lindsay spoke of birth and growth of reggae body of Jamaican anima- the film WHAT IF? by director len were unable to attend and makers, some experienced, the Bank’s support of film fes- from the people and beliefs of tors creating work that is Vanessa Phlllips and Daniel screen their new feature THE others first-timers signed in tivals in Trinidad and , Rastafari religion. Several Ras- both amusing, as well as Singer, with THE SPIRIT OF LIFE and their earlier film THE and waited to learn the ‘ele- Canada, saying how pleased tafari in the audience included thought-provoking; IS IN THE MUSIC by film nov- SWEETEST MANGO. The clay- she was to add Jamaica to this dub poet and El- ment’ that had to be included ices Denise Gladishaw and Re- mation animated film TRIBUTE list. DIGICEL’s Sandra Legis- der Empress Sister Mitzie. * The high quality and in- in each film to ensure no one gina Beavers, winning for them TO by UK director creased participation in the had started their film before ter added her company’s en- Scally Ranks was shown. This ------ited festival budget that did story of an HIV-infected upper- animated film in the2010 festi- at the Cannes Film Festival tak- unique stop-motion technique not enable press advertising. class Black stockbroker con- val, was a proud ‘godmother’ ing place that same week, and using clay figures of the artist Festival the event was not attended by tained a shocking scene that of this year entrants. the director specially honoured brought a humourous, yet seri- Night 3 many persons to view the film merited its midnight screen- the Reggae Film Festival and ous side to the reggae hero’s ------MADE IN – a ing. Though not strictly a ‘reg- New record company Sug- her home country by showing words about Emperor Haile Se- documentary by Dutch film so- gae film’, the film’s entry was ashak Records of Mango Val- her film at the same time as its lassie, and was punctuated by After the 24 Hours Film en- cial worker Esther Magdenberg accepted by the JFA because of ley, St. Mary, presented a live gala Cannes screening. snippets of Tosh’s songs. This tries were shown, the even- about her work setting up a li- its excellent production values, showcase of their artist KeKe-I, was followed by Jamaican di- ing screened HEAVEN & brary in Trench Town. The film unusual script, good direction who gave a well-received per- The next documentary, FIRE IN rector Wayne Benjamin’s short HELLSHIRE, a short picture-po- KIDS PARADISE – THE GREAT and also a stunning perfor- formance backed bya live band BABYLON, was in the news that film THE CROFT – the first epi- em about the popular Kingston LOST TREASURE HUNT – a chil- mance by the lead actor that of reggae professionals. Sug- week for holding the top sales sode of what he described as a beach by US director Sugar dren’s TV drama by Festival Di- won him Honourable Mention ashak handed out rustic bags position for sports documenta- horror TV series. A film script- Cane, who also attended and rector Barbara Blake Hannah, on Awards night. filled with CDs, press releases ries on Amazon.com. Directed writer drives to the mountains entered the 2010 Festival. This was also shown. and organic soaps made in by Stevan Riley (THE LAST KING to restore his writer’s block, was followed by the BBC docu------their Mango Valley country vil- OF SCOTLAND), the film re- and finds a mysterious appa- mentary REGGAE BRITTANIA, The evening’s films began with lage. counts the exploits of the win- a live performance by reggae Festival ning West Indies cricket team of rition is following him. Span- directed by Jeremy Marre, a his- BOB MARLEY: THE MAKING ish director Jep Jorba, who at- tory of the influence of reggae artist Marcus I, who was later Night 5 the 1970s that was faced with featured in the Brazilian docu- OF A LEGEND by Jamaican ac- a barrage of racism, but used tended the first Reggae Film in Britain and how the music ------tress/director Esther Anderson Spanish director Jep Jorba, who has impacted on race relations mentary VIAJAH. The animated its bowling fire-power, batting CABBIE CHRONICLES by Alison The full house attendance on shows footage she shot when expertise and racial confidence attended the first Reggae Film and social interaction. The film she met Marley in the year Festival in 2008 with his film shared the UNESCO Honour and Tabois Latchman, which Friday, May 27th showed that to overcome the English and is a running feature on Jamai- despite the lack of press ad- while he recorded the ‘Catch A Australian cricketers and make RICO RODRIQUES – THE LEGA- Award for Best Documentary Fire’ album. Though his locks CY, returned this year thanks with Friday night’s cricket doc- can cable TV, roused roars of vertising, the word-of-mouth themselves everlasting Carib- laughter with its simple 2-D im- promotion of the festival, plus have only just started grow- bean heroes. Laced with refer- to sponsorship by the Spanish umentary FIRE IN BABYLON. ing, his comments show that Ministry of Culture, with his Technical problems cut short ages and wickedly funny script. its continuous reporting in the ences to Rastafari, Black Power Playwright Ginger Knight’s social media Facebook and his Rastafari philosophy was and the politics of the 70s, the documentary INTENSIFIED – the night’s film screenings, already firm. Surrounded by a COME FORWARD, narrating the which were to have included play-to-movie ROOM FOR RENT, Twitter, had brought out film film is a conscious tribute to with rib-tickling performances lovers to see three of the most young Peter Tosh and Bunny a great moment in Black Car- history of the British band that BEYOND BABYLON by Polish di- Wailer, the young group yet un- revived interest in Ska in the rector Michael Szydlowski, SU- by Volier Johnson and Deon Sil- talked-about films of the fes- ibbean history that deserves vera, was appreciated by all, tival. This was the night when aware of the fame and money its Honour Award as the Out- 1980s and inspired the birth of PERSTONIC SOUND: THE REBEL to come, relax and speak their scores of European ska bands. DREAD by UK director Raphael including veteran Jamaican ac- the six 24 Hours film finalists standing Film of the Reggae tor Munair Zacca, who attend- were screened to the audience world views, giving an early Film Festival. This was followed by VISION Erichsen, and THE CASE OF glimpse of Marley that with the OF PARADISE, an introduction THUGGY THUGGY RUFUS, a US ed all the festival screenings. and a popular choice selected. The films were followed by an- hindsight of 50 years, is amaz- The midnight movie was BUB- to a film on Lee Scratch Perry. feature directed by Stephanie Hawaii-based US director Joe other of Jamaica’s new anima- ing to see for the first time. Es- BLIN’, directed by US-based Then came the film INVITATION Slade. (All films had previously Trivigno, whose 11 MILES TO tion cartoons, JERK CHICKEN ther supports the footage with Denise Campbell. A story of a from Iran, which follows a fam- been screened for the judges.) PARADISE was screened at the by director Samuel Stewart, in background narrative of Rasta- single-mother country girl who ily emigrating reluctantly from 2010 Festival, returned with which the chickens fight back fari history, as well as her own turns to ‘bubblin’ (dirty danc- Tehran to Baghdad, Iraq. Nar------FROM KINGSTON TO CALI, a and which received a standing memories of the time spent ing to lewd dancehall music) rated by the young woman who concert documentary featuring Festival ovation from a laughing-out- with him and with the growing in seedy nightclubs to sup- filmed it using a cameraphone, reggae icon Jr. Reid perform- Night 4 loud audience. This year’s Reg- Rastafari movement. Return- port her fatherless daughter, the film gives a revealing ing to a full house in San Fran- gae Film Festival has shown ing to the people and places of the film nevertheless captures look into the family’s journey ------cisco on a tour of California. that there is Jamaican poten- that history, she reflects with accurately what life is like for through war-torn territory that This was followed by one of the The Children’s Programme tial for a Disney or Pixar-type them on the Marley they knew, women like the film’s lead char- is more graphic and emotion- Festival’s controversial entries, was held at 2 p.m. this year feature film. Coretta Singer, and the legend he has become. acter. Controversial because al than any CNN or AlJazeera DAVID IS DYING by UK director rather than last year’s 10 a.m. whose breakthrough, award- The film’s presence in Jamaica of its subject matter, visual news story. Stephen Lloyd Jackson. This slot. Due to the extremely lim- winning KINA SKY was the only co-incided with its screening content and use of unlicensed music, the film nevertheless See you in 2012!!! Nominees: showed that Campbell is a ca- Black Roots, Jah Mason, Mo’Kalamity pable director. ------Tameka Jarvis-George: ‘DIN- Award NER’ – JFA HONOUR AWARD and Informative Historyman in Paris ------Night Wayne Benjamin: ‘THE CROFT’ Award Jovel Johnson: ‘RECKONING’ The 14th edition of Zicalizes festival took place near Paris, France from 11th to 21st. ------Check this photos from the last evening with Informative Historyman, Mo’Kalamity and Night SUGASHAK AWARD – SOUND- RBTT/RBC AWARD The Wizards, Jah Mason (backed by Dub Akom) and Black Roots on stage. ------TRACK: Photos by Jennyfer Papin MAKE A FILM IN 24 HOURS: Steel Pulse – ‘ROCKSTEADY’ L&SHarmony, daughters of ‘WHAT IF…” Vanessa Phillips reggae superstar I-JahMan Nominees: ‘HOLDING ON TO Levi, performed life to open UNESCO AWARD FEATURE JAH the Awards Presentation. The DOCUMENTARY: ‘FIRE IN BABY- DIGICEL AWARD – ANIMATION: full list of Awards is attached LON’ (Dir: Stevan Riley) ‘BAD INFLUENCE’ Reinardo below. Then long awaited an- ‘REGGAE BRITANNIA’ (Dir: Jer- ‘Mental’ Chung nouncement of the winner of emy Marre) the RBTT/RBC 24 Hours compe- JERK CHICKEN – Sam Stewart tition was no surprise, as those JFA HONOUR Awards: ‘BOB – JFA HONOUR AWARD who had seen it were unani- MARLEY: MAKING OF A LEG- mous that WHAT IF? by Va- END’ (Dir: Esther Anderson/ CABBIE CHRONICLES – Ali- nessa Phllips was the winning Gian Goody) son Latchman – JFA HONOUR film. The young film maker, AWARD HOLDING ON TO JAH (Dir: previously unknown, showed COUPLES AWARD – SCREEN- Roger Hall) that she is a major film talent PLAY – Ginger Knight – ‘ROOM capable of writing, directing, FOR RENT’ producing and acting in well- DIRECTOR – FEATURE FILM made productions. She was – Mustapha Khan - ”ROCK- JAMAICA FILM ACADEMY – definitely the talk of the Festi- STEADY’ SPECIAL AWARDS val, receiving several offers of Nominees: Stephen Lloyd Jack- REGGAE CONCERT: ‘FROM interest in whatever produc- son – DAVID IS DYING KINGSTON TO CALI’ Dir: Joe tions she undertakes next. The Trivigno winning film was shown, then KNUTSFORD COURT HOTEL given a choice of winning films, AWARD – ACTOR – CEDRIC OUTSTANDING FILM OF THE the audience unanimously SANDERS – “ROCKSTEADY” FESTIVAL: ‘Fire in Babylon’ Dir: called for the cricket docu- Stevan Riley mentary FIRE IN BABYLON. The Nominees: Volier Johnson – night and the Reggae Film Fes- ‘ROOM FOR RENT’ CINE JAMAICA HONOUR AWARDS : tival 2011 ended on a high and TAIT COMPUTER SERVICES positive note. Plans are now AWARD – ACTRESS: Danielle Craig Kirkland (Amaziyah The underway to present THE BEST Clarke ‘BUBBLIN’ Great), Carl Davis, Volier John- OF THE REGGAE FILM FESTIVAL son, Ginger Knight, Carol Reid, Nominee: Vanessa Phillips – at venues in Jamaica, Canada, Sam Stewart, Jovel Johnson, ‘MISINJUSTICE’ the USA and England and to Wayne Benjamin,Reinardo make the 5th Festival in 2012 DIRECTOR – SHORT FEATURE: Chung, Alison Latchman, Va- be a worthy celebration of Ja- Vanessa Phillips – ‘MISINJUS- nessa Phillips. maica’s 50th anniversary of In- TICE’ dependence. By Barbara Blake Hannah Miami Reggae Festival 2011

Peacock Park in Coconut Grove came alive for this free festival to “Feed the Hungry”, a campaign to benefit Curley’s House, a non-profit project to feed the needy. Performers included Jafe, Ephniko, The Spam Allstars, Soulflower Amn, Cultura Profetica, and others. All nationalities came together through the universal language of Reggae Music. Photos by Gail Zucker Portraits of Rural Jamaica

My first trip to Jamaica was in 1979 to do a black and white documentary on the Rastafar- ians as a final project for a University degree in Visual Anthropology. I was in awe from my first moments off the plane. The air was so moist and hot, the land bursting with a thousand shades of green, punctuated by flame red flowers. Reggae blared out from cars swooshing by, the scent of ganja lingering behind. In the countryside I found warmth and spirituality from a people who had little material wealth.

I have been to Jamaica countless times since then, have photographed reggae artists exten- sively, published scores of photos in magazines, album covers, calendars, and on multiple websites, but my favorite images, the ones that whisper sweetly to my soul, are my Portraits of Rural Jamaica. The bulk of this series was shot all across the country between 1979 and 1988, but I continue to add to it with every island visit. I would encourage all of you that go to Jamaica to get beyond both the tourist resorts, which will isolate you, and the crowded city streets, which will exhaust you, and journey into the countryside, which will surely captivate you with its lush beauty and magical charm.

Photos by Lee Abel Protoje, Raging Fyah and Rootz Underground Mash it up in Kingston Dubtonic Kru, Di Kru Productions & Steppin Razor have been putting on some wicked shows on Fridays for their Plug N’ Play Productions at the Jonkanoo Lounge at the New Kingston Ho- tel in Kingston, Jamaica. I was fortunate to catch Protoje, Raging Fyah & Rootz Underground on May 13, 2011. A band called Blu Grass also performed. Protoje entertained the audience... They loved him! He is so into his music, at some point, it almost looks like he is in a trance. It’s no wonder he and Ky-Mani Marley have their hit tune Rasta Love. Raging Fyah are five tal- ented musicians that have joined together for a fresh unique sound. Rootz Underground gave a great performance, even though the stage was too small for Stephen Newland to perform his famous jumps... The audience enjoyed his guitar playing!

Photos by Gail Zucker MAGAZINE

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