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Home , Basque Dub Foundation, Big Youth, Black Uhuru, Bongo Herman, Bunny Lee, Burro Banton

MAGAZINE #12 - October 2011

Queen Ifrica INTERVIEW

FRANZ JOB SOLO BANTON DAWEH CONGO DON CORLEON, PRESSURE AND

Sugar Minott - - - J-Boog - Ce’Cile - Ruff Scott - I-Wayne - Yabass - Raging Fyah and The Agrovators - - United Magazine #12 - October 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 SUMMARY free pdf version packed with most of United Reggae content from the last month.

1/ NEWS EDITORIAL by Erik Magni 2/ INTERVIEWS

• Don Corleon, Pressure and Protoje 16 • Solo Banton 18 • Johnny Clarke 23 • Daweh Congo 25 • 29 • Franz Job 32 • Junior Murvin 35 3/ REVIEWS

• The Upsessions - Below The Belt 41 • J-Boog - Backyard Boogie 42 • CeCile - Jamaicanization 44 Discover new music • Ruff Scott - Roots And Culture 45 • I-Wayne - Life Teachings 46 In the heydays of music magazines in the 90’s and early 2000’s getting a complimentary • Yabass - Back A Yard Dub 47 music CD was a regular pleasure. I for one found several new artists and groups due to • Bunny Lee and The Agrovators - Dub Will Change Your Mind 48 this promotional tool. Since then the music and publishing businesses have radically • Raging Fyah - Judgement Day 49 changed. Consumers have taken their reading and listening habits online and this has • The Bristol Reggae Explosion 2: The 1980s 50 lead to a dramatic decrease in sold physical units. Several labels and media houses are • Denja - Vampire Slayer 51 struggling to stay alive. • - Hard Time Pressure 52

The main ingredient in the new business models and strategies is going digital – offering 4/ REPORTS your music or articles on a number of platforms as well as meeting consumers on Face- book, Twitter, Youtube and other popular places. And this shift in strategy has paid off • Peter Tosh Lights Up The Reggae University 53 for the labels. According to IFPI (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) • Celebration Held for Dennis Brown National Heroes Award 55 digital revenues was last year up six per cent to US$4.6 billion accounting for 29 per cent • Zion Train in Dublin 56 of record companies’ trade revenues in 2010. Services such as Spotify, Deezer and iTunes are helping the shift from physical to digital. United Reggae now follows in the same 5/ PHOTOS footsteps and we are proud to offer a digital music sampler together with this issue. The sampler contains songs from several of the artists that are covered in this twelfth issue • Natty King and Ras Zacharri in Paris 58 and you can choose to stream or download it. • Queen Ifrica, Tony Rebel, Sly and Robbie and Junior Reid in Paris 60

I hope that you can – just like I did in the 90’s – discover new music from new artists.

Enjoy!

All the articles in this magazine were previously published online on http://unitedreggae.com. Cover photo by Christian BORDEY 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. ------and in digital stores right now drops on October 4th as digital ------‘: an Unauthorised Leonard Dillon took a break Ras Kwasi Pre- through Basis Interactive Inc. download. Jimmy Cliff: an Biography’ is set to be released from the music business for ------on 30th November 2011 two years. In 1977 he was back sents Bun Bab- Rebel Lover Unauthorised and put out the excellent roots ylon Oppression Ariwa Sounds Biography album ‘Slave Call’ together Boy by Franz Back to Africa with Winston “Niney” Holness. ------Job ------Heavy Reggae heads should Music Festival Jimmy Cliff is a recent inductee Since then Leonard Dillon be well pleased when they get ------into the Rock and Roll Hall of has toured on and off and a glance at the roster of artists From humble beginnings in the Fame and one of ’s most recorded sporadically both to be found on ‘Bun Babylon front room of 19 Bruce Road successful musicians with sev- solo and in a new version Oppression’, the latest project in the south suburb of eral hit songs on his list of mer- of with fe- from esteemed producer ‘Da Thornton Heath, Neil Fraser, its. Many people recognize him male backing vocalists Jen- Gold Moor’, Ras Kwasi. This or the as he is for Wonderful World, Beautiful nifer Lara and Merlyn Webber. wicked compilation features better known, has built Ariwa People, ------large efforts from some of the Sounds into one of reggaes and , most skillful lights currently most successful and influential the lead-motive to the mo- What’s Going on the scene, all labels of recent times. tion picture of the same name, On by Freddie singing songs aimed at chant- a picture where Jimmy Cliff McGregor and ing down corruption and uplift- The label is now reaching its also played the leading role. ing the oppressed populations 30th anniversary and to cele- Soul 4 Soul of the world. Trinibagoan singer and London- brate this event will be holding Jimmy Cliff has – just as ------resident Franz Job has teamed the Back to Africa Music Festi- , Desmond Dek- Leonard Dillon Reggae veteran Freddie Like who? , Natural up with Necessary Mayhem- val in The Gambia from Friday ker and – McGregor teams up with soul- Black, the oft-overlooked, but producer Curtis Lynch for his January 20th to Wednesday been hailed as an early su- of The Ethiopi- ful reggae and gospel quar- extremely talented Determine, new five track EP titled ‘Rebel January 25th next year at the perstar of Jamaican music. ans Has Died tet Soul 4 Soul on a cover of Selah I and even veteran Utan Lover Boy’. sea side resort of Batukunku in Marvin Gaye’s classic What’s Green all impress on Bun Baby- His story will now be told in ------the south of the country. Leonard Dillon founded, to- Going On for VP Records’ ‘Reg- lon Oppression with excellent Franz Job is no rookie in the ‘Jimmy Cliff: an Unauthorised gae for Lovers’ compilation. tunes (especially check Deter- music business and has also Biography’ written by mu- gether with Aston Morris and The Mad Professor has worked the late Stephen Taylor, the mine’s sizable opener, Unite recorded for Curtis Lynch previ- on many types of Reggae gen- sic journalist and author Da- Freddie McGregor is head of the Africa). But really taking over ously. vid Katz, previously respon- , and reggae res during this time so expect vocal group The Ethiopians McGregor musical family that on the album is the incompara- to hear Dub, Dubstep, Lovers sible for ‘People Funny Boy: also comprises well-known ble whose two origi- In 2009 Franz Job dropped his The Genius of Lee “Scratch” in the mid 60’s. Aston Mor- Rock, and Roots ris soon left, and The Ethio- producer and singer Stephen nal selections Blood Diamonds very worthwhile debut album & Culture by a variety of art- Perry’ and ‘Solid Foundation: “” McGregor and and Bloody Coltan are amongst ‘Babylon is Dead’, a set that in- an Oral History of Reggae’. pians first hit song Train to ists like Turbulence, , Skaville was recorded as a duo. his singjaying brother Chino. the finest sets to be found on cluded dub mixes courtesy of Tippa Irie, Earl 16, Aisha, Levi the entire album. Also, be sure Dougie Conscious. ‘Jimmy Cliff: an Unauthorised Roots, The Robotiks, Brinsley Other smash singles for a Soul 4 Soul has won Ja- to check that the album reach- Ford, the Mad Professor him- Biography’ tells the tale of maica’s National Gospel es its end with dubbed out ver- Earlier this year Franz Job how Jimmy Cliff battled pov- number of acclaimed produc- self plus many more including ers soon followed. Engine Festival Competition sev- sions of several of the tracks voiced two produced a selection of local artists. On erty, controversy and preju- eral years in a row and has which, again, are sure to grab by Curtis Lynch. The Mr. Wil- dice to become a world-class 54, The Whip and Everything top of this the festival will also Crash only to name a few. also been featured on Barry the attention of well estab- liamz duet Viva Marijuana on offer workshops, seminars and musician credited with making O’Hare’s Masterpiece . lished fans. the Gorilla riddim and Special an exciting Miss Natural Beau- reggae popular with a global Lover on a relick of the Pass the audience. It is based on exten- In September 1975 a tragic ac- ty contest. cident occurred. Stephen Tay- What’s Going On is avail- Surely you’re interested by Kutchie/Full Up riddim. sive interviews with the artist able on October 5th both now, so don’t hesitate. ‘Ras and his peers as well as press lor was working at a gas sta- For more information visit tion when he was killed by a a single and on the ‘Reg- Kwasi Presents: Bun Babylon Special Lover is also included www.backtoafricafestival.com. archives and other sources. gae for Lovers’ compilation. Oppression’ is available on CD on ‘Rebel Lover Boy’, a set that van while crossing the street. ------sion for arts and cultural me- rently available on Youtube bunch and now this album that who recorded his first song for As usual both tracks come dia, ROCKAZ MVMT and its and the album hits the streets incorporates styles including Sugar Minott. with the obligatory Roots Hitek Bayside Rocks president and CEO Alfonso on October 21st through French Dubstep, Jungle, Roots and Fu- dubs versions Apedmak Vibra- 2011 D’niscio Brooks are striving to label X-Ray Production. ture Dub is available for you to This three disc set includes tion and House Of Dub. ------change the workd for the better ------download free via Soundcloud. two CD’s with 36 tracks and ------Bayside Rocks scheduled for by empowering people to make Brand New Free ------a DVD with live video footage City Of Vibes by November 19, 2011 will be both a difference. of Sugar Minott performing at environmentally and family ------To Download Hard Time JapanSplash concert in 1986. Brother Culture friendly. The Festival will utilize Release From Pressure by ‘Hard Time Pressure’ hits the ------PPM by Noble streets on October 18th. green vendors and merchants Society Renegade Me- Sugar Minott British MC Brother Culture has committed to being socially dia ------once again collaborated with conscious. It will be a day of ------Roots Hitek Swiss music production team peace, love & unity. ------Kinyama Sounds for the seven ‘Echoes - The Vol 1’ is Music Present track EP ‘City of Vibes’, sched- The concert will be a tribute to a collection of 12 of the best re- Their Latest Vi- uled for release on digital plat- music icon Bob Marley and will mixes submitted for a contest nyl Release forms on October 24th. include 50 years of Wailers mu- run earlier this year by Dub- sic to be highlighted through- matix’s for his Renegade Re------Brother Culture and Kinyama out the day. Headliners include cordings label. The object of the Roots Hitek who delighted us Sounds met for the first time in , Luciano, Warrior contest was simply for aspiring earlier this year with their ‘Riv- 2009 and worked on two tracks King, Wailing Souls, Pato Ban- producers to choose one of er Niger Riddim’, a mighty slice put on the compilation ‘Reggae ton, The Original Wailers, Ta- four tracks from any of the art- of modern roots reggae on 10” Dishes’, an album that also fea- bou Combo, Cultura Profetica, ists on label roster which were, vinyl, are now about to do it tured artists such as Chezidek Gondwana, Connis Vanterpool, Early Worm Crawling From The again with another 10” release. and Prince Alla. as well as up and coming tal- The versatile singer and deejay Roots, Nate Wize Blues Blood, The late singer and producer, ------ent. Jahdan Blakkamoore dropped Rolling Lion Studio Rightful as well as label and sound This time it will feature the vo- his sophomore solo album Ruler and Dubmatix’s very own system-owner, Sugar Minott cals of UK roots veteran Tena Free Download This years festival will also in- ‘Babylon Nightmare’ in Decem- Inna Eden and create their own passed away last summer, Stelin, whose first release was from Patrice’s clude a farmer’s market, yoga ber last year to wide critical ac- highly interesting and original and VP Records’ subsidiary 17 the acclaimed ‘Wicked Inven- Upcoming Al- demonstrations, bike valet, claim. take on the song as they could. North Parade now drops the tion’ way back in 1989 and who skateboard and BMX exhibi- three disc anthology ‘Hard more recently came out with bum tions, ecology & social con- But Jahdan Blakkamoore is Time Pressure’ with some of Spiritual Kinsmen and Cosmic ------sciousness workshops and also part of Noble Society, a his best work. Session also with Roots Hitek German singer/songwriter and more. hip-hop/reggae group based with both these and other guitarist Patrice has started in . Their diverse ‘Hard Time Pressure’ high- tunes to feature on a future al- working on his follow-up to Concert proceeds will include a debut album ‘Take Charge’ lights his long recording career bum collaboration. ‘Free-Patri-Ation’, released in food drive benefiting Curley’s was put out in 2008, and three that bridged three major eras 2008. House, an organization dedi- years later they are all set to in reggae – from Studio One to Flip it over and you will find the cated to improving the qual- drop the follow-up. to the digital dance- Reality Souljahs from out of When Everything has Changed ity of life for low-to-moderate hall era, where he earned the east London with Come Along. is a demo song from the up- income individuals, families, ‘PPM’ (Powerful, Painful, Mu- title the Godfather of Dance- This duo released the album coming album due for release the elderly, youth-at-risk, the sic) is produced by Ovaground hall. ‘Everyday Reality’ in 2008 and in 2012, and should be regard- abused, and HIV/AIDS infected Productions and engineered by Remixs by: G31, Edumarron, Se- since then have been making ed as a sneak peak of a work individuals by providing the Tony Dawsey, who also worked lec, Dub Terminator, Dubtrak, During his career he managed a name for themselves across still in progress. nutrition they need. on Jay Z’ eleventh studio album The Originator, Commie Dread, to record over 60 albums and Europe and in the roots world ‘The Blue Print III’. SUBSET, ultrabase, Dubstruc- was also responsible for find- in general with further releases “I feel like the verses and the Through the universal lan- tor, and PhOniAndFlOrE were ing new talents such as Junior such as last years ‘Jah Pon Mi chorus isn’t as one, but I’m still guage of music, as well as vi- The first single For Life is cur- chosen as the best of the Reid, Yami Bolo and the late Mind’ for Reality experimenting you know. and , . Everything I do, I like it to be collection of ’ complete, but it’s nice to share hits, plus a special bonus DVD a demo so that you can see the featuring the reggae veteran progress and somehow be part singing on stage at The Brixton of this,” writes Patrice on his Academy in 1984. The set also website, and asks: features detailed liner notes and rare photographs of Greg- “So what do you think? What ory Isaacs during his prime. do you like or not like?” This set chronicles some of You can download When Every- Gregory Isaacs’ most cru- thing has Changed for free by cial hits from 1972 to 1990 signing up to Patrice’s mailing for a variety of producers, list. including tunes such as My ------Number One, Let off the Get Up and Go- Sup’m and Soon Forward. ing by Sebas- tian Sturm ------German singer Sebastian Sturm made his album debut in 2006 with the roots reggae and lovers rock effort ‘This Change Records is back on track with The CD and the 2xLP both have is Nice’. ‘One Moment in Peace’ by Ken Khouri with the label gotten and hard to find gems reissuing Studio One material. all tracks. followed in 2008, and on Oc- taking its name from Winston available again and included tober 14th Sebastian Sturm is ------Blake’s sound system. Al- in the roster are songs like I’m In September United Reggae back with his third album ‘Get though not as well known as Coming Home by Eddie Perkins reported about the upcoming The Ruler by Up & Going’, a set recorded to- the likes of Studio 1 or Treasure who worked with as book on the cover art of Studio gether with his new band Ex- Gregory Isaacs ------Isle it was the largest record the duo Alton and Eddy. Then One, published by Soul Jazz ile Airline and producer Philip ------Merritone Reis- company of that time in Jamai- there is ’s remake Books in November. Breidenbach. – one It has been almost a year since sues From Dub ca. Many songs were recorded of the Batman movie theme, of Sebastian Sturm’s personal reggae crooner Gregory Isaacs with , and fellow Henry Buckley sings Beware Of To accompany that set is a 70’s heroes – makes a guest died at the age of 59, and about Store Records guitarist Lynn Taitt among its All Those Rude Boys and show- brand new 18 track compilation appearance on the album, an a month ago VP Records re------biggest stars. However many of cases his conscious style with featuring both well-known Stu- album that is said to “remain leased the Gregory Isaacs trib- Earlier this year Dub Store Re- theses songs only appeared on If I Am Right plus there is early dio One cuts as well as lesser faithful to the Sturm sound ute album ‘We Remember Greg- cords reissued a selection of vinyl records in limited quan- Prince Lincoln work with Real known ones. It features The while incorporating new influ- ory Isaacs’, where a number Ska rarities on 7” vinyl on the tities in Jamaica with a small Gone Sweet and It’s Not Right Skatalites, Lone Ranger and ences and musical elements.” of contemporary singers put Federal Records’ Kentone la- bunch of titles making it to the that he performed as a mem- among others. their mark on the . bel, all beautifully presented UK were they were released ber of The Tartans along with ------with authentic labels and card on the Island label. Due to this , , The Legendary ‘The Legendary Studio One Re- But VP didn’t stop there. On covers. Now they have shifted many recordings on the label and Berg Lewis. Studio One Re- cords’ comes in a jewel case October 24th the label’s sub- their attention to the rock- are hardly known and are now with slipcase style CD, limited sidiary 17 North Parade com- steady era with no less than 40 considered being ultra rare col- If this short list of some of the cords edition gatefold heavyweight memorates the life and music songs across 20 singles pre- lector’s items. songs on offer doesn’t whet ------double vinyl and exclusive digi- of Gregory Isaacs with ‘Reg- sented on the Merritone label. your appetite for more then It has been three long years, tal download. gae Anthology: The Ruler 1972- Dub Store are now making check out ReggaeRecord.com. but now it seems that Soul Jazz 1990’, an extensive 40-track Merritone was founded in 1966 some of these unreleased, for------dim and Walk Of Life have dub sound. Featured artists in- already available on the recent from leading contemporaries promised from the likes of Lin- been very well received on clude – apart from those men- compilation ‘Heartical Story’. and as val Thompson & Kenny Knots Paul Fox meets Sound System circuit espe- tioned above – Kenny Knotts, well as veterans , Reggae Roast Records is cer- Fullness cially by Channel One sound. Horace Martin and the late The Know Myself riddim hits and Admiral tainly a label that seems to ------Sugar Minott. the streets as digital download Bailey. have a hot future. This release is limited to just on October 14th and as five 7” ------500 copies and is available to Look out for ‘Rub a Dub Show- singles on October 30th. ‘Greensleeves Dubstep: Chap- order from [email protected] case Part II’ on November 1st. ter 1’ hits the streets on Octo- Alborosie wins or for more details visit www. ------ber 24th. MOBO Award fullness.co.uk.. Know Myself ------and tours Eu------Riddim Smokers De- rope Ambassah ------light From Reg------Presents Rub a French label Heartical has yet gae Roast Italian-born Jamaican-resi- Dub Showcase another relick of a classic reg- dent Alborosie won the MOBO ------Award – a European awards Part II gae riddim set for release. Reggae Roast Records who This time it’s the Know Myself show to celebrate urban music ------have delivered us some essen- – for Best Reggae Act on the First Light b/w No More Fire riddim, originally recorded as tial cuts over the past 12 - 18 is the new EP from Paul Fox Spanish producer Ambassah an instrumental by Conscious event that took place on Octo- has alongside fellow Spaniard months have announced they ber 5th in Glasgow, Scotland. meets Fullness, released last Minds titled ‘Something New’ ------are about to release their latest month on KarnaTone records. Roberto Sánchez put together and put out in 1974. The most Last year the prize was award- the compilation ‘Rub a Dub Greensleeves offering ‘Sensi Skank’ on 21st ed to Gyptian. well-known version is Ernest November. Paul Fox has been actively in- Showcase Part II’ for the label Wilson’s ‘Know Myself’ that Dubstep: Chap- volved on the UK’s Sound Sys- Pirate’s Choice Recordings. dropped a few years later. Among Alborosie’s contestants ter 1 Available as a 5 track vinyl EP were Khago, Mavado and Da- tem scene since the late 1980s the primary cut is a very UK but it wasn’t until a meeting The new version is laid by ------mian Marley & Nas. Last year Greensleeves Re- digital roots reggae affair with was also nominated, but was with Nick Manasseh in 1992 Heartical’s long-time collabo- production by veteran sound that he got to record his first rators cords announced that their disqualified due to his previ- back catalogue was to get the system aficionado Murray Man ous conviction of rape, gun release Writing on the Wall along with legendary drummer and mixed by one of the most b/w African Mask. Since then , who also played on dubstep treatment by a num- possession and robbery. ber of acclaimed producers respected DJ / producers in he has gone on to work with the original Know Myself. British reggae Manasseh. the likes of Michael Rose, from this bass heavy genre. Among the other winners was Robert Tribulation, from the The thirteen cuts are voiced The first release was a Adele for Best UK R&B/Soul Act of Yellowman’s classic ‘Zung- Vocals are supplied by Ruben and Rihanna for Best Interna- Great Tribulation Sound Sys- by both legends and fresh tal- Da Silva, who is quickly becom- tem of the 1970’s plus roots ents. You might recognize Mi- guzugguguzungguzeng’ by tional Act. Horsepower Productions fol- ing a major force in the British dub duo Alpha and Omega. chael Rose, and roots scene after his recent Ernest Wilson himself, who lowed by remixes of Busy Sig- Following the release of Albo- This 17 track album collects all nal, Mavado and Ding Dong. dance-floor smasher Bless A rosie’s third album ‘2 Times Fullness is multi instrumental- is represented on two cuts. Sound plus rising young UK ist and producer Gavin Sant who of all of the Pirates Choice 10” Lesser known artists include Revolution’ – released in June releases as well as no less than Now it’s time for the next step rapper Skinnyman, who has 2011 – he heads out for his sec- created the KarnaTone studio the Spanish brother and sister been a long time and outspo- and to produce and eight previously unreleased duo Rootsmala, Tiwony from – ‘Greensleeves Dubstep: ond European tour this year. tracks, where of one from Al- Chapter 1’. This 14 track album ken advocator of the legalisa- release his heavyweight roots the French West Indies and tion of cannabis. For those of and dub reggae recordings. pheus and one from Linval Original Uman out of Belgium. contains remixes from produc- The 14 date tour kicks off in Hé- Thompson. ers such as The Bug, Coki and you that like a bit more bounce rouville Saint Clair in France on Included are also a dub version with your ounce there is a hard The music mixes digital and and a melodica cut. Mala of Digital Mystikz, Goth- November 15th and finishes on The tracks were recorded be- Trad and Terror Danjah. hitting Drum n Bass remix from November 30th in Portugal’s live techniques and his re- Undiluted Records artist Placid. cent works such as the Dub- tween 2005 and 2011 and carry Heartical followers might no- capital Lisbon. heart Solid Foundation Rid- some heavy early 80´s rub a tice that some of these cuts are They mix up some of dance- hall’s most popular anthems With more exciting releases ------a new various album from Yard Dub’ on Phoenix City Re- but who have shown they many of today’s budding un- cords and brings his analogue can match their better known Fight It by derground artists. The album recording techniques, featur- peers when it comes to mak- Tony Curtis titled ‘Riddim Full A Culture’ is ing live drums, for a mid sev- ing quality reggae and as one ------touted as being by the Com- enties Tubby inspired sound. ‘wise old’ underground artist Jamaican singer Tony Curtis munity Allstars but this is not There are rootsy flavours from has been saying for a while has collaborated with Green- a single band rather a band of The Manor with a sound that now; it’s “Real People Music”. yard Records – led by Zigo from many, who through there love pays homage to early Wailers ------French group Dub Inc – on his of reggae, have been brought and Perry ark style, while Wil- Express Your- new EP titled ‘Fight It’. together on various commu- lie Steen broods on a deep di- nity websites and have given gi-roots-dub. Finally wrapping self Riddim This is Greenyard’s first single a track each for the album. up the UK contingent is David ------artist release. Previous sets in- Powell an artist of ‘Multi Gen- On Kris Kemist new riddim Ex- clude one riddim albums such res’ who here gives an up-tem- press Yourself it’s strictly UK as My Son, Jah Light and De- po almost feeling num- artists – YT, Dixie Peach, Solo sign. The latter included the ber with some vocal snippets Banton, Deadly Hunta and Val- wicked Part of My Life by Sara from 80s Toaster Horseman. orous along with a dub mix by Lugo which was featured on Disciples Russ D. her debut album. From German there is roots and culture in the form of Idi- This smooth, yet bass intense, ‘Fight It’ contains six tracks, tafari Family who are in fact a riddim is currently available of which two are combinations real family and are well known on iTunes and will soon hit the with two veteran hardcore dee- across these community sites shelves on 12”. jays – Burro Banton and Cutty for their love of true roots and conscious lyrics. Another Ger------Ranks. It blends modern roots the most anticipated second have been imagined from lis- The artists of this collective man group are the Droegen with the energy of dancehall. album from wicked Gwada/ tening to Cali P’s Pow Pow pro- Dial M for come from Europe and the US Bwoys, a 7 piece outfit that fea- Swiss chanter, Cali P. The al- duced debut album. Impres- Murder in Dub with the UK giving us the most tures underground foundation Look out for Tony Curtis’ ‘Fight bum follows ‘Lyrical Faya’, the sive here is just how skiled he with artists Digikal Roots a vocalist and DeeJay ‘I Rebel’. Style It’ on CD and digital download artist’s well regarded debut proves to be on teh new style musician and producer who re- on October 25th. set from 2008 and it features a and despite it’s very ‘immedi------leased the album ‘Let There Be From the US comes multi in- Acclaimed reissue label Pres- very very interesting twist. That ate’ sound, by its end ‘Unstop- Version’ in 2010 and has since strumentalist Steve Steppa sure Sounds will reissue the first album showed Cali P to be pable’ proves to be a very com- followed that with a dub EP and who has released 5 albums produced album ‘Dial an outstanding Roots Reggae plex and mature project. another album entitled ‘Dread covering a multitude of reg- M for Murder in Dub Style’, chanter much in the same style Force Dub’. Gadman Dubs one gae & dub styles as well as initially released in 1980 and as several of his more popular Hemp Higher Productions along of the foundation profilers at collaborating with dozens of recorded at Channel One with peers such as Kalonji, with Inspired Music presents these community sites and a artists and riddim produc- . This is the and the likes. Here, Cali P’s ‘Unstoppable’ which is digi dub disciple. There is also ers; primarily Flow Production third Phil Pratt album reissued however, Cali P has turned, al- currently available on CD, Digi- El Bib who recently released and El Bib. It’s back in to dub by the label. most exclusively, into this very tal and Deluxe Digital release.. ‘Revolutionary Dub Vibrations’ territory again for Albusark fascinating Dancehall DJ, while ------an album series that currently Studios and David Pablo then The vinyl release contains the retaining his most positive and stands at 3 volumes plus anoth- travelling just up the road to same tracks as the original uplifting message. Riddim Full A er dub activist Dub Alchemist Canada we find Denja with one album, while the CD includes ------Culture by The who has some heavy duty UK of his surreal dublike workouts. five bonus tunes. It is expected The album features a variety Community dub fashions. King Dauda adds to hit the streets in early No- Cali P Is Un- of hardcore Dancehall and Hip- some thematic dub to proceed- ‘Riddim Full A Culture’ is an vember through the Pressure stoppable Hop tracks courtesy of Riga, of Allstars ings while veteran multi instru- album that highlights just Sounds website. It’ll be avail- Hemp Higher Productions and ------mentalist and dub producer some of artists out there that able through other retailers on sounds nothing like what may Springline Records present In stores now is ‘Unstoppable’ Yabass recently released ‘Back are going unnoticed by many November 28th. ------alternate takes and previously Both of these discs are to be re- The album, as you’d probably unissued gems from the gold- leased on October 31st but are already guessed, takes tracks KA Records en ages of Rock Steady and available to pre order from the from last years ‘System Shake- New Single Boss Reggae. Trojan shop now. down’ and puts them into the ------hands of an amazing cast of re- mixers/producers from around French label KA Records – spe- Constellation the world including Zion Train, cialized in 70’s roots reggae – G.Corp, Marcus Visionary, Li- is set to release their new 7”. by marie-claire ondub, Vibronics, Victor Rice, As previous releases they use and Dubvisionist, Mungo’s Hi-Fi, live instrumentation, live re------Aldubb, Nate Wize, TVS, Sub- cording and local artists. It has been 20 years since vet- atomic Soundsystem, and eran singer and songwriter Bob Webcam Hi-Fi, with the digital The A-side has vocal duo the Andy penned a song for anoth- release also including bonus Maât Disciples in fine form and er artist. Now it’s time again, tracks from DJ Shine, Eccodek the B-side sees witty named and the artist is Dominican op- and DJ Brace. The remixes that deejay Woody Allan going era singer marie-claire. this large contingent have pro- on his anti-digital tune duced are very diverse and Natty Don’t Want No Digital. The Ethiopians release will be in the form of their classic 1968 Constellation is the title of this take in traditional rootsy dub, smooth reggae tune. It’s part dubstep, , jungle, future This fine 7” hits the streets on album ‘Engine 54’. of marie-claire’s five song EP dub and what I’d describe as October 21st. ‘The Dreamland Project’, a gen- almost a minimalist funk in one ------re busting set that blends reg- case. You can hear snippets of international hit Night Nurse. Land, the first school Gregory Two New Re- gae, opera and hip-hop. the tracks and order the digital “Gregory Isaacs is one of reg- attended,” says June Isaacs in leases From copy from junodownload.com gae’s greatest artists. In 2008, a press release. June Isaacs will Apart from Bob Andy, artists while the CD and vinyl formats Tad’s partnered with African also utilize the tribute album such as Earl “Chinna” Smith, are available for pre order from Museum for Gregory Isaacs to launch a drug awareness ------Stephen Marley, Drezion and Amazon. - African Museum & Tad’s Col- campaign in memory of her Its been a bit quite at Trojan Re- dancehall deejay Spragga Benz ------lection Vol. I. Now that Gregory husband, who battled drug ad- cords since the release of their have been involved. The latter has joined the ancestors, we diction throughout his 42-year 5 CD box set back in the sum- contributes on a version of Bob Gregory Isaacs will see to it that his music lives career. His cocaine addiction mer, but now as autumn pre- Marley’s Rastaman Chant. - African Mu- on with Vol. II,” says Tad Dawk- caused irreparable damage to vails they have announced the ------seum and Tads ins, CEO and owner of Tad’s his voice and led to several ar- release of two CD’s that will It is now 42 years after its origi- Dubmatix Pre- Record in a press release and rests for drugs and drug-relat- feature first one of Jamaica’s nal release and this seminal al- Collection Vol- adds: “Gregory and I have a ed crimes. “November is Drug greatest vocalists Desmond bum is finally being released sents Clash ume 2 long musical history together, Awareness Month in Jamaica, Dekker and secondly one of its on CD as part of Trojan’s highly of the Titans and I’m glad to honor him and I am working on editing some ------celebrate his legacy.” audio statements from Gregory best loved bands The Ethiopi- acclaimed Originals series. As Once again Tad’s Records - The System about his own drug abuse to ans. with other titles in the range, teams up with the late Gregory Shakedown Re- Part of the proceeds from the use as a message to stay off the original artwork has been Isaacs’ own label African Mu- sales of the album will benefit drugs,” states Ms. Isaacs fur- The release faithfully reproduced, with the mix seum for a compilation. ‘’ is a the Gregory Isaacs Foundation, ther in the press release. is a 2 CD ‘Best Of’ and will fea- original Jamaican analogue two disc collector’s item featur------established in July this year ture all of his biggest hits from tapes from 1968 used for its ing more than 40 singles from On November 7th Dubmatix is by Gregory Isaacs’ wife June ‘Gregory Isaacs - The African the ‘60s and ‘70s, including the mastering and thus making Isaacs’ illustrious catalogue in- to release ‘Clash of the Titans’ Isaacs. Museum & Tad’s Collection Vol. UK chart hits, 007, Israelites, It it something of a fitting if un- cluding My Number One, Front the System Shakedown Remix- II’ will be available in stores Mek, Pickney Gal, You Can Get intentional tribute to Leonard Door, Tune In and Slavemaster. es, on, CD, digital plus a very “The foundation will be offer- and on digital outlets on Octo- It If You Really Want and Sing Dillon who sadly passed away The compilation also includes limited (500, hand numbered) ing assistance to the St. Barna- ber 25th. A Little Song plus an array of recently. an extended version of his 1982 double 12” vinyl formats. bas Basic School in Fletcher’s “It’s one of my favorite groups,” in a chair with his sunglasses explains Don Corleon, and con- hiding his eyes. tinues: Don Corleon, I ask Pressure about the reggae “I have this one on dubplate.” scene on the Virgin Islands (VI), ------a scene that has been boom- ing in the last couple of years, Pressure and Pressure has the whole largely thanks to Midnite, but package also artists such as NiyoRah, ------Dezarie and Batch. It turns out Protoje Don Corleon explains that he that Pressure has relocated. was introduced to Pressure “I live in Florida now. There are “We’re all Afri- of tunes from his debut album Scheme and Broken Hearts. more musical opportunities ‘7 Year Itch’, released earlier when he met producer Dean can people and Pond – responsible for Pres- there, and a wider audience this year. But he also performed The dub album was some- than in the VI. VI is calypso “Dub just bit me. sure’s debut album ‘The Pres- have an Afri- a tune that did not make it thing of a surprise to many. dominated, and only 30 to 40 bit me,” explains Protoje and sure is On’ – in a guitar store can culture. We onto the album due to some The release was preceded percent of the music played is legal issues with a sample. by video clips of Don Cor- mentions ’s Guess in Miami. are all Caribbe- leon dub mixing in his stu- Who’s Coming to Dinner as a an people” Our Time Come, as the en- dio, and got instant attention. big inspiration. “He told me about Pressure ------ergetic tune is called, also and gave me the album,” says has the Don singing the “I videotaped the whole re- Protoje seems shy and speaks Don Corleon. A midnite meeting with hook. But even though it cording procedure. It will be re- in a low voice. Or maybe he’s Don Corleon, Pressure didn’t make it to the album, leased as a DVD soon,” reveals just cold sitting outside in the The rest is, as you say, history. Swedish chilly summer night. and Protoje. it might still be up for grabs. Don Corleon, and continues: He explains that he is currently The Don was hugely impressed ------“Somehow it’s now avail- “I pushed my engineering skills working on his second album, by St. Thomas native Pressure, Don Corleon is one of Jamaica’s able on the Internet. I don’t when I did it. I did it in . a set probably due next year. and together they recorded slickest and most success- know who leaked it,” says I wanted to do something new.” Pressure’s second album ‘Love ful contemporary producers Don Corleon and smiles. “The music is already recorded and Affection’, a set that in- with a variety of booming rid- In front of him sits Protoje and When learning the neces- and we’ll finish the album and cluded the title track, that be- dims behind him. In his sta- beside him is Pressure. It’s ob- sary skills for mixing dub then decide when to release came a smash hit. ble of artists is Pressure as vious that Don Corleon is the Don Corleon spent hours it,” says Protoje, and continues well as his cousin Protoje. describing how it sounds: “It will never die. It will be a front man and leader of this watching producers such as reggae.” This trio was on a European outfit. He is well-spoken, polite Mad Professor on Youtube. classic. It’s wicked from start tour, and United Reggae got a “It’s a new style. More roots to finish,” believes Don Cor- and gives thorough answers. Don Corleon fills in: chat after their performance “Mad Professor is my favorite and more steppers. It has an leon, and continues to explain at Uppsala Reggae Festival. ------international sound, it’s exper- what makes Pressure a great dub producer. He has a crisp “I didn’t know about the VI reg- Busy year imental and I wanted to explore artist: and clean sound. I really rate gae scene until I heard Pres- The evening has turned to for Don Corleon him,” explains Don Corleon. different styles.” night when I meet Pres- “He has this great vocal ability. sure. And I said ‘yo, him bad’. He got so much talent,” and sure, Protoje and his cous------While I sit and talk to Protoje I And it’s the first thing I’m look- It’s been a busy year for Don continues: in Don Corleon backstage. Protoje’s new album hear playing on ing for. He also has the whole Corleon. An album from Proto- the main stage. During their package. He can write his own je, a European tour in February ------“But we’re all African people This trio was touring Europe classic Party Time I notice that songs and sing.” and the album ‘Dub in HD’. On Don Corleon got interested in and have an African culture. and stopped by and Don Corleon leans over to Pres- top of that another European dub through Protoje, and one We are all Caribbean people.” the Uppsala Reggae Festival. sure while playing the bass line Pressure almost came straight tour and several new riddims, of his first dub recordings can be heard on Wrong Side of the in the air. from the stage to the interview, On stage, Protoje did a number such as The Message, Summer and he seems to be tired sitting Interview by Erik Magni Law, included on ‘7 Year Itch’. Photos by Bartek Muracki a new EP out - Music Addict - and he gave me a list of a few words, poetry and stuff. My with another longtime collabo- books to read. sister bought an LP and it just rator German “laptop reggae” mesmerised me, just the fact label Jahtari. Angus Taylor met What did your parents think to hear the spoken word, to Solo in Reading to discuss his about this? hear the poetry over this reg- Solo Banton music and fill in some of the gae music. He’d have a slight gaps. Hahahaha! My dad always said melody in what he was say- “There are no to me from a very young age ing as well, so he did have a artists in the In your song Stronger you talk “If I ever see you with them rhythm to what he was say- dreadlocks on your head, I ing, it wasn’t just straight spo- world that are about being influenced by a ken word like somebody like particular Rastaman. Tell me a will cut them off!” He wouldn’t as versatile as even allow my hair to get plait. Pam Ayres. It just really, really UK reggae art- bit about that. I remember one time my sister captured me from a very, very plaited my hair, my hair was young age. I was in primary ists” We all went to church rigor- long in an afro sort of thing and school. I remember we had a ously every Sunday. It always my sister said “Let me see if I school party where we were The man they call Solo Banton seemed to me to be a half can plait it”. My dad came in all allowed to bring in some re- was born and raised in West truth. It made a lot of sense and she’d only done one side cords and I brought in Linton London and attended Christo- to me and I believed in it but and he flipped! I got lash, she Kwesi Johnson. My teacher was pher Wren school in Shepherds there was always something got lash. In all honesty I think like “Ooh, what’s this?” The Bush a few years behind the missing. I used to see Rastas everybody in the house got track that I played at the party athlete Linford Christie and the walking down the road and lashed apart from my mum, was (sings) “The SPG, them ah footballer Dennis Wise. Failing they just intrigued me for some but my mum and my dad murderer, them kill Blair Peach, to see the relevance of study- reason. I met this guy, in Shep- had a fierce argument. Once the teacher” My teacher was ing obscure facts about Henry herd’s Bush. I knew of a lot of I locksed up my mum never like “Interesting...”. Then Buru VIII, the young Solo gravitated Rastas at the time but I didn’t had a problem. All my sisters Banton, hence Solo Banton. towards systematic subjects really speak to them. I ended have dreadlocks now as well, I Then from there, most deejays such as computer studies, up speaking to this guy, to this mean they’re not Rasta, they’re really. I mean I love singers but physics and maths. In addition day I do not know his name but Christian but they all have their from that it’s mostly deejays. he discovered sound system he just called me over “Hey hair in locks. It was always like through his elder brother and bwoy” and he just asked me that with my dad but once I got Obviously it’s a very superfi- at the age of 12 he selected what I was doing (we were in to the age where I could do it... cial comparison, but you’re a at his sister’s party when the the youth club) and I said that He had no choice. Just to wind designated sound didn’t show, deejay, you’re quite opinion- I was just playing some table him up I’ll buy him a red, gold spinning dancehall and lovers ated. Was Macka B an influ- tennis and stuff like that. We and green scarf at Christmas! rock as well as Rick James and just started talking and I asked Just to get my own back, you ence on you in any way? Bob James’ Theme from Taxi. about Rasta. He asked me if I know? (laughs). Inspired by the child deejays went to church and I said “Yeah, I used to go to Birmingham a of the early 80s he then began I go to church every Sunday”. lot and listen to Wassifa and taking the mic - calling himself He said “How do you feel about On your tune Revolution Time listen to Macka B on the sound. Professor Brown - first staying church?” and I said to him how you kind of go into a bit of I loved the way Macka B does up to guest on his brother’s I felt and he started to explain at the very end. his thing and has always done sound King Shamma and then some things to me. He just said Do you like dub poetry? Who his thing, you know? I didn’t in his late teens building his selector on Majestic Sound but album ‘Walk Like Rasta’, to me “What they’re teach- are your musical influences? used to listen to a lot of his own basic rig with his mates. and had started learning how produced by Kris Kemist from ing you is the right thing but recordings, I don’t know why By 15 he was also getting paid to produce at a nearby studio Reading where Solo currently they’re just missing out a few Musically - Linton Kwesi John- that was. You just never used to play in his uncle’s steel run by a man named Jazzbo. resides alongside friends and facts. When you’re big enough son was the first I think, just to hear a lot of his songs. I band. At 19 he became a soul Yet it would be two decades scene-makers Deadly Hunta you should read some books” think that’s still the problem in before Solo dropped his de- and Mikey Murka. Now he has because of the play with England now where too many know? You should do some- the title track. When did the down and while he was mak- strumentals. There’s the track he said to me “They sent a selectors don’t play English thing, you’re good!” I never re- lyrics come to you? ing the beat I wrote, so we both called Music Addict which was rhythm for you” you know? I artists. Back then it was terri- ally paid it any mind, you know? wrote the song and the beat at never released before but was went to Kris’ and he played it ble. You were lucky to hear an Kris was like “Solo, I want to re- I played a sound in Reading the same time basically. a massive hit which got I think and I went “Kris, what’s this? English artist; if you didn’t hear cord you, I want o record you”. I called Classic Wonder. I joined 40,000 views on YouTube with- I used to make this 20 years them on the sound, to hear was just like “Yeah, whatever” it just as a mic man and I then You have a new EP out for in three weeks of them putting ago!” He was like “This is how the actual recording, you’d and then he just really pushed became the selector on the Jahtari in Germany, who have it up and is one of the biggest they do it, man” and I’m like be lucky! Tony Williams might me to do it. So next thing you tunes I perform live. Then there “Seriously?” I couldn’t get sound. Then after selecting a very distinctive style. play one on a Sunday, Rodigan know I wrote the lyrics and I’d it for many, many years some are three brand new tracks my head round it at first and I would usually play about four done it! younger guys came in and they never heard before. Put It Back didn’t voice it and I must have or five on a Saturday night... Mate, I’m just in awe of Jahtari. which is a light hearted view had it for about two months started playing the sound and I Every time, he’s just amazing to But yeah, I always loved Macka What’s Kris like to work with? moved into a more managerial of somebody trying to burgle and didn’t do anything on it. B. But I was more appreciative me. When I first heard it I was my house basically! Remember level. If they were struggling in like “What is this?” This was of the English artists then on He’s a nightmare! (laughs). No, the dance then I would go and the days when people used to So what changed? the sound system, more than the sort of music I was making make you laugh and smile? I Kris is wonderful, he’s very select or go in on mic. So while on the Casio keyboard when their recordings. I thought good. Me and him we just need they were playing and I was try to keep that element in my Kris said to me “Look, these their skills on the sound sys- I was 13 or 14 years old. Re- stuff. There’s One Of The Great- extra time because we laugh listening to some of the songs member the keyboards where guys are now hounding me for tem were second to none. a lot, we get on very well and that were playing I was like “I est which I wrote at the time the recording. Are you going you used to have the little blue of the uprising in Egypt and is we’re very much the same, so really don’t want to be here. pads at the bottom and each to do it?” so I said “Kris, what Does that give a clue as to we end up laughing or getting I don’t really want to be on all about democracy and stuff do you think? Because I don’t pad had four different sounds? like that. Then there’s another why so late in life you became into a deep conversation in- the mic introducing this song I used to make music on that all understand this music at all.” stead of working, d’you know when this guy is singing this light-hearted track on there He was like “I think this will be a recording artist? day long and some of the stuff called Kung Fu Master in one what I mean? So we end up nonsense!” Especially when I heard I was like “That just beneficial for you”. I listened having either just great big gig- he’d started the song saying of those old styles where when to it and I could get the vibe, Hahahaha! I’ve no idea! I ask sounds like the stuff I was mak- I’m on the mic I’m like a kung fu myself that question very regu- gling fits or we just go off on a “Holy Emmanuel-I, Selassie- ing on these things here. Real- I could get the musical vibe to tangent and start talking about I” so my ears have pricked up master and talk about different it but it just confused me if I’m larly. I don’t know if it was con- ly?” But the more I’ve listened kung fu styles that are similar fidence, I just never thought of things, but he’s the best per- because I want to hear some- to it, the more I’ve done shows honest. I recorded it and sent son I’ve ever worked with when thing conscious and then I hear to my writing and my singing. I it to them, they sent it back doing it. I knew I could do it. I with them, I looked into it. It’s also want to mention the cover did compèring and stuff like it comes to producing, with- foolishness. I was never going a movement and I respect it so mixed and they’d rearranged out a doubt. He’s very particu- turn around and say to them where Jahtari enlisted the help it. They’d taken my second that on stages, talking in front much because they’re doing of Ellen from My Lord Graphics of people is never a problem. lar, he knows what he wants “I don’t want you to play that, their thing. They’ve got confi- verse and put it over my first and he knows how it should I want you to play roots”. Clas- in Germany and she’s done it verse and swapped my verses I just never really saw me go- dence in their thing, they’re do- in the style of the old Scientist ing that way. It was Kris Kemist sound. He’s like me in that way sic Wonder had always been a ing their thing and it’s working around. I’m like “What’s he do- in knowing that something dancehall sound from when I albums with a picture for every ing?” and I had the hump about who pushed me into it really. I out for them. So the fact that track on the EP. was producing at the time and sounds good straight away, joined it. I went away and I was they’re not following anybody, it, I wasn’t happy about it at Deadly Hunta introduced me to but I think that he’s much bet- doing some tour management they’re being individuals and all and then I did a show with Kris. I asked Kris to play guitar ter than me at it, you know? work and I was away at the doing their thing, I’ve got the What drew you to Jahtari? them. He said to me he was on one of my tracks that I was He’s very particular in that way time on tour with somebody. utmost respect for. coming to London and would I producing. While he was in the - once he knows how it’s meant I’d just spoken to JD from the They found me. We did a video come and work with them and I to sound, then any other way is sound on the phone and I was at Kris’ house; there was me, was like “Yeah, of course” and studio I went into the voicing Tell me a bit about the EP. room and I started deejaying not going to be good enough contemplating that whole situ- Deadly, Mikey Murka, and we it was the craziest show I’ve at all. I think that’s the biggest ation when I first came up with were just freestyling at the ever done in my life! some old lyrics that I used to It was a great pleasure to do an thing I can say, but I think that’s the chorus. I phoned up Kris time. Kris came to me and said deejay on the sound, just for EP with them. Everything I’ve a great thing. and said “Kris, I’ve got this “Look, these guys, Jahtaris, a laugh or whatever, to get the did for them before has been How come? tune I want to do and when I they said to me they liked the vibes up in the studio before released on the Maffi label come back I want you to write a video, they liked the lyrics you people were going to go and You released your album Walk through Jahtari whereas this is Honestly, this guy turns up, beat for this song”. I came back chatted on the video and they record. When I came out every- Like Rasta end of 2009. Tell actually going to be on Jahtari. whose name’s Jan, first time I and then I went by Kris and sat want you to record it.” So then one was like “You’re good, you me about the inspiration for There’s four vocals and two in- met him was at this show. He gets his laptop out, he sets up people in the crowd playing in turn believe in yourself and his laptop, then he pulls out Frogger and Space Invaders on do you thing. Look at Mungo’s a PlayStation control and he the special screen behind me! I from Scotland, absolutely huge plugs it in. was like “What the...???” That all over the world. And Mungo’s Johnny Clarke was one of the best nights of are just doing their UK thing I’m like “What are you doing? my life. I realised they were do- and being a leader. Not follow- “I’ve been surviving all these years and I’m still Are you going to play a game?” ing their thing and people were ing anybody; being a trendset- strong” He’s like “No I use this to con- loving it. ter, because that’s how the rest trol...”. I’d got my nephew with of Europe are looking at the UK ------me and I look at my nephew - to lead and to teach them, so Johnny Clarke embraces and I’m like “What is this?” just be a leader, man. And then he’s gone into his bag new technology and he’s like “Solo, look this is Do what you know. Don’t try ------the gem!” and he brought out to be anybody else. Believe in Jamaican singer Johnny Clarke a radio cassette player. You yourself. It’s the best way for was a veritable hit machine must know them, they were the UK to go. for producer Bunny Lee in the flat, about this [gestures] high, 70’s. Nowadays he isn’t as you press Eject and the thing Would you say that that’s consistent with his record- comes up, and they had a han- your own philosophy in life? ings as he is with touring. dle that falls out like that. I’m But he survives, as he says to Believe in yourself, be your- like “Oh my...Where did you get United Reggae after his show that from! I haven’t seen one of self? at Uppsala Reggae Festival. them in years! What are you going to do with that?” He said Be who you are. That’s where Johnny Clarke was together “I’m going to record the show the name Solo came from. I’m with producer Bunny Lee a on it.” I’m like “You’re going to an individual, I do my thing. I musical pioneer in Jamaica. record it on that?” and he’s like don’t want to hurt nobody or In the 70’s they began ver- “I know it’s old but the quality, How can the UK scene get as disrespect anybody but I’m go- sioning or relick older rid- ing to love you and leave you the quality...” big as Europe? dims into something new and if you want to go that way and at the time contemporary. I want to go this way. I don’t A little part of me, a naive part Believe in itself. Believe in it- of me, was thinking that they need to go with the crowd, I’ll Together with Bunny Lee and self, that’s all the UK has to do. go there on my own. Believe in were backward, no disrespect There’s no artists in the world drummer Santa Davis he also but they were backward. It was yourself and do what’s right for established the so called fly- that are as versatile as UK reg- you. at that point there that I said to gae artists. You put them on a ing cymbals sound. Tunes myself “You know what? These a jungle night any such as his breakthrough hit guys aren’t backward - they’re None Shall Escape the Judge- night they’d be able to hold the Interview by Angus Taylor connoisseurs!” So then, we’re mic and hold their own where a ment as well as Enter into His ready to do the show and I see lot of other mcees would be out Gates with Praise were in the him pull this big screen down of their depth. funky and driven drumming from behind the stage and a style known as flying cymbals. guy turns up with these metal Look at what’s going on in Eu- fly cases and open it up and rope, look at the UK artists that Today he is independent and mance – a set jam-packed he’s got an Atari, an original are working in Europe. Look at works with a variety of pro- Atari in there! So I’m on stage ducers, such as Gussie P and “I’ve been surviving all these with classics from the 70’s. the response and respect that years and I’m still strong,” singing while my man’s control- they’re getting and know that Soothsayers in the UK. Most- he says when we meet in the Johnny Clarke explains that mu- ling, mixing the music with his they’re getting that because ly it seems like he spends press tent backstage about sic is history and that people PlayStation thing and there’s they’re from the UK and you his days touring the world and spreading his message. 30 minutes after his perfor- need to realize that there is so much great music out there. ------opportunities for yourself. “Foundation they say. Peo- Several opportunities “I can’t run them [the pirates] Daweh ple need to know about for artists down. I can’t travel to the four us. We’re part of the musi------corners of the world. I achieve cal history,” he explains. But the Internet has meant a what I can achieve. Try and go for it in a legal way. I’m not Congo ------great deal of challenges for suffering and I’m not desper- New possibilities labels around the globe. For Johnny it’s all about staying ate. It’s all about being satis- “The sooner we ------fied. Hold on to what you’ve positive and he views it from learn to be able Johnny Clarke seems intrigued another angle. got,” he concludes. with the new realities in the ------to live together music business and embrac- “There is lots of piracy. But it’s Several opportunities in harmony, it’s es the new possibilities that both positive and negative. going to be the it gives. He is particularly There are lots of promotion for artists fond of the fact that young opportunities for the artists,” ------better for world people easily can access mu- he explains, and continues: But the Internet has meant affairs” sic that he and his contem- a great deal of challenges poraries made in the 70’s. for labels around the globe. “There are so many ways for On Sunday 25th September For Johnny it’s all about us artists to earn money – Camden’s folkloric Dingwalls “This music is current to them staying positive and he song writing, live shows and club was rammed. The tiny [younger generation]. It’s new publishing. We survive.” views it from another angle. music. CD and the Internet Dingwalls stage was rammed Is this your first time playing was. But I was really here to do make the music sound new too as Prince Alla shared a bill London? an album for JetStar in 1999 - He emphasizes that it’s im- Interview by Erik Magni with old producer Tappa Zukie again,” he believes, and adds: portant to stay positive and to Guidance. I came back in 2003 Photos by Anna Thunander backed by the fullsome ar- learn how you can use the new Yes although I did a cameo one and did an album Health and “It will never die.” rangements of the Well Bless Strength. Now I’m here to do a band. In an exemplary dis- time. I don’t remember where it was. I went there and the peo- full-fledged performance and play of cross-capital solidarity I’m liking it! London’s reggae community ple said they didn’t bring any rhythms, but I had one rhythm turned out in force for the occa- Your last album release was sion - including industry giants because at the time I was do- such as Bunny Lee, Niney, Dr ing a song. I was doing a song Ghetto Skyline. Tell me about Alimantado, , Mikey called Fi Years (sings) “Fi years how you decided to work Brooks, , Af- an years, we been trying for with Swedish producer Jonah years an years” and the crowd rikan Simba, Nereus Joseph, Gold. Prince Malachi, and many went wild and then they said “We want more!” and the was more. Jah Youth had strung up I actually was booked for a no rhythm track! So what I did their sound and Asher G played show in Sweden. It was Upp- was, someone shouted in the a niche roots selection before sala music festival, the pro- audience “Love is real!”. That the show. But just as important moter was Yared Tekeste, was from my first album Mili- a draw was the first marquee an Ethiopian from there. He tancy from 1996. So I just did live appearance in London by took me two tracks that Jo- that a cappella (sings) “Woman the smoky roots chanter Daweh nah Gold had given him and of my dreams, the love I have Congo. Angus Taylor caught up said “Could you have Daweh for you’s real, so very real” and with him at the soundcheck to listen to these two?” So I lis- the people liked it. I hope they discuss his works... tened to them and I was ready like this one! That was back in when I went there for the per- 1999, in the summer I think it formance in 2004 in the sum- my essays the teacher used to shacks maybe. (laughs) like” What is this?” It was really mer. So after the performance read them out to the class as There’s a lyrical reference to nice. It brought me, in my head I went to Stockholm with Jonah an example of what he or she Berlin in there. I started to see African imagery Gold and recorded those two. was looking for. It happened like masks and stuff just jump- I went back to Jamaica and he more than once and I thought Right. it’s because, as I said ing out of the woodwork. Like sent me loads of tracks, and I “Oh my! Well, I can write!” back in the Los Angeles sky- “Man, this is the Ancients” the just did like 10 more tracks and line there’re tall buildings and song is so ancient I thought sent them to him. stuff, so I though “Hey, Berlin about Africa. I was a bit older What’s your writing pro- then, by then I was 14 years old cess like? Do you write lyrics must have a skyline too” but I What was it about his produc- was thinking more in terms of when I heard for tions that made you decide down? How do you approach East when there was an East the first time. you wanted to do an album what you do? and West Germany. East Berlin, Have you ever met Burning with him? West Berlin. So I was thinking, I like writing stuff down. It you know that the western side Spear? makes it easier to preserve it. was more affluent, so since I’m Well, his rhythms were really You might have a thought, a dealing with ghetto skyline and Yes, I met him once. That was nice. His rhythms are nice and fleeting thought, it sounds re- the squalor and the poverty, so magical, man! I went to the stu- I found out later on that his ally good and you jot it down, I was saying “A fire engine is dio in Ocho Rios, Irie FM Studi- mixes, he’s a good engineer, right? And you know where heading east of Berlin” rather os. I was doing my first album the voice came through clearly. you put it. I’ve made jottings than west. at the time. I had seven tracks And, it’s a boyhood thing, I’ve that were resting in the drawer down already and I used to go always had a fondness for Eu- for like five years. Ghetto Sky- Obviously your voice has back and forth from Kingston rope, or a curiosity about it. I line, that track is a track that been compared to the voice to do the recording with Barry thought it would be nice to do I wrote in 1992! And ended O’Hare, the engineer. When an album with a European pro- up doing it in 2004! (laughs) of Burning Spear in the past. I reached the studio he said duction team for a change. 12 years, Ghetto Skyline! How do you feel about that to me “Spear is here!” I said comparison? “What!” I was kind of nervous Where do you think that cu- Did a specific incident inspire too I said “Man, I’m going to riosity about Europe comes that song? Yeah, well I like it. I quite like meet the great professor, Burn- from? it because it is true and Burn- ing Spear man, that’s good!” ing Spear is a big influence on So I was in the lobby and then Ghetto Skyline came out of my music. Well, first it was Bob I got up, I mustered the cour- Well, it comes from my whole journalists were kind of hu- Graham, 1989] from the 1950s my having been raised in the Marley because the first time age to get up after I’d thought reading, appetite for reading. mane. A journalist would go to to the 1980s. I was his proof ghetto in Kingston. I remember I heard a song on the radio about what I might say to him, I’m an avid reader. I like to read. the frontline, where there was reader, so I went through and reading a Time Magazine once and thought “I really like that so I pushed the door to the stu- Although I haven’t done a lot of a war going on, just to see that corrected grammatical errors and I saw the Los Angeles sky- song” it was a song from Bob dio and there he was sitting in that lately. (laughs) human rights were being pre- and stuff. He used to work with line. Then I thought later on, Marley and The Wailers called the studio. I said “Rastaman” served. I was thinking “Wow, the Gleaner company of Ja- you know sometimes you’ve Natty Dread. I was like “Wow”. and he said “Love” and I closed that’s really noble” you know? maica and he was actually the read something somewhere You’re known as quite a lyri- I was about six or seven years the door and I’ve savoured the Building Page Editor. So I had and it just pops back into your cist, a deep lyricist. Where do old and I really loved the song. moment ever since! (laughs). But instead fate took you mu- a stint there and he taught me mind one time, and I said “Well, you think that came from? Then there was a song with Ken how to type and stuff. He died Ghetto Skyline...” because the sic instead... Boothe (sings) “You sheltered after the book was written, af- skyline in Los Angeles looks What is your next album pro- me from harm, kept me warm”. It came from when I was at ter the book was completed he fabulous, you know what I ject that you’re working on? What happened, my first job I loved that song, it was a pret- school and I was thinking died. I tried to get into the army mean? Tall skyscrapers jutting after leaving school was with ty song, a very pretty song. about a career and blah blah, and then I thought “Look, I’m out and stuff, and I thought Well, it’s completed. All has to a journalist who was working Then I heard one day on the and I thought I could really be- going to be a writer, be a sing- that ghetto skyline would really do now is to be mastered and on a book called Building and radio (sings) “No-one remem- come a writer. I’d write journal- er” - but a writer first. When I look the opposite, there’d be a the producer is Jah Youth from Construction in Jamaica [Tom ber old Marcus Garvey” I was ism because I saw, in my mind, was at school and I was doing lot of squalor and stuff. Stacks, Roots Ambassadors, who’s promoting the show tonight, love people, man. All these wars live together in harmony, it’s and we have 12 riveting tracks. and these things that have been going to be the better for world The title though is King of Kings fought in the past and probably affairs. God bless. and I’ll be doing that one in the linger on today and maybe will show tonight. into the future, I just pray that Interview by Angus Taylor it all ends because when I look You have a long-standing con- around I see people, yes? And nection with the UK as a sup- your colour makes no difference to me because I’ve got colour porter of the music. too, and not because you’re of Queen Ifrica a different hue to me it does it I love this place, man. I love this make you able to fly, neither “The sooner we learn to be able to live together in place. Jamaica, where I come does my hue make me able from, was a former colony of to fly or walk on water or walk harmony, it’s going to be the better for world af- the British and still today is a in mid-air. We’re just human, fairs” signatory to the British Com- that’s what we are. Human. The monwealth. I love Britain... I just sooner we learn to be able to ------portant to stay positive and to learn how you can use the new Queen Ifrica is a rebel- opportunities for yourself. lious daughter ------“I can’t run them [the pirates] Queen Ifrica defied her moth- down. I can’t travel to the four er and became a rasta. Today corners of the world. I achieve she is one of the leading con- what I can achieve. Try and go scious reggae artists with two for it in a legal way. I’m not albums and several hit singles suffering and I’m not desper- on her list of merits. United ate. It’s all about being satis- Reggae has met her. fied. Hold on to what you’ve got,” he concludes. Queen Ifrica has music in her ------veins. She’s the daughter of Defied her mother ska and rock steady veteran . She begun ------singing as a child and was It turns out that Queen Ifrica’s discovered in the mid 90’s by mother is one of these rasta singer and producer Tony Re- women, but she didn’t want bel. her daughter to travel the same path as her. Since then she has released two albums – ‘Fyah Muma’ “My mother is one of them. in 2007 and ‘’ in She’s living deep up in the 2009 – and has also contrib- hills. But she didn’t want me to uted to several riddim compi- grow locks. She thought that I lations. Her latest hit song is wasn’t disciplined enough,” Times Like These, on the City she laughs, and continues: Life riddim, she pleads for the need of more heroes and “But she saw herself in me and sings about Marcus Garvey, understands me and she is the Bob Marley among others. proudest mommy right now. She’s an angel. She’s a queen, “It’s fun to see her argue with “Reggae hails from the poor men. Women don’t usually and poverty. It’s a music that Queen Ifrica is a conscious huge voice, and can easily another angle. she’s seen as the queen moth- have an opinion. Women are will spark a certain type of re- artist. She also a real rasta. switch from straight singing er in her village.” to a gruff style. “There is lots of piracy. But it’s seen but not heard in rasta. action. You need to encourage It’s fun to watch her,” she the youths,” she explains, and “I am 100 percent rasta,” she When we meet she seems re- both positive and negative. Queen Ifrica’s mother is an laughs. continues: says when we meet backstage laxed and laughs a lot. There are lots of promotion outspoken person, and the about two hours after her set opportunities for the artists,” daughter describes the moth------“Stick to positive cultural mu- at Uppsala Reggae Festival, he explains, and continues: er as rebellious. The invisible visible Stick to positive music sic, and I know that young and continues: ------“There are so many ways for “She’s rebellious for the right ------people can love it.” Being a role model is part of “Rasta is who I am. It’s the But the Internet has meant a us artists to earn money – reasons and she’s an inde- being an artist and as a young blood that runs through these great deal of challenges for song writing, live shows and pendent woman. She wants to artist you need to understand Interview by Erik Magni little arms.” labels around the globe. For publishing. We survive.” be equal to men. Aside from Johnny it’s all about staying being a woman you are also what it means to be a role Photos by Christian Bordey model. Queen Ifrica says you She’s a petite singer with a positive and he views it from He emphasizes that it’s im- an individual,” she says, and continues: have a responsibility. side, where people are down to earth and cares about and learn from history. The coun- Franz Job try is quiet and very different from the city. That is probably why my music sounds like it does,” says Franz and contin- “We are carnival ues: people. The mu- sic we play and “I want to show my roots and listen to must where I come from.” be happy and At the age of 17 he moved back danceable” to London to educate himself and to try his wings in the mu- sic business. After a few years ------he met sound system opera- Sing and dance to tor and record store owner Gladdy Wax. Franz got a job in Franz Job the record store and worked in different sound from the Con- “Curtis had a good vibe about ------parallel writing music. scious Sounds studio than him when we first spoke, One of the best albums in 2009 ------others have,” says Franz. and he sounded very serious was Franz Job’s debut Babylon ------about what he was doing. His for my parents,” says Franz ciently secure upbringing. Different sound from approach to his music is simi- is Dead. Two years has gone Hooks up by and now he’s back with the over the phone from London. Conscious Sounds lar to mine.” Curtis Lynch produced EP Re------“My folks moved me to Tobago ------with Curtis Lynch ------bel Lover Boy. United Reggae before I was a year old to live ------Church choir is the with my grandparents. There It was Gladdy Wax that intro- Fearless new EP had a chat with this London Franz’ latest recordings are was strong racial tension in duced him to producer and resident with roots in the Car- foundation done in collaboration with an------London at the time, so there- engineer Dougie Wardrop, the ibbean island of Tobago. ------other producer and engineer The first riddim from Curtis fore they moved me away. I mixing engineer on ‘Babylon One of the best albums in 2009 – Curtis Lynch. Both reside in Lynch that Franz voiced was know it was a tough decision is Dead’. Franz Job was born in London was Franz Job’s debut Babylon London, but Curtis had never Pass the Kutchie, which led for my parents,” says Franz by parents who had just emi- is Dead. Two years has gone heard of Franz until he went to to the song Special Lover, a over the phone from London. Dougie Wardrop is best known track included on the newly is- grated from the Caribbean is- by and now he’s back with the for his tough steppers-sound Germany. lands of Trinidad & Tobago. Curtis Lynch produced EP Re------sued EP ‘Rebel Lover Boy’, de- and his work with the Bush scribed by Franz as fearless. But Franz did not stay long in bel Lover Boy. United Reggae Influenced by 70’s roots Chemists, Centry and singer “Curtis called me up after I England. His parents felt that had a chat with this London King General. A type of reg- returned to London from my they could not ensure a suffi- resident with roots in the Car------annual trip back home to To- “I say a lot of things that are ‘Babylon is Dead’ – Franz’ de- gae quite different from what ciently secure upbringing. ibbean island of Tobago. bago in July in 2010. Rocket not often said on records but album – is reggae deeply Franz does. Sound and El Presidente Inter- these days. Plus, every song rooted in the legacy of groups “My folks moved me to Tobago Franz Job was born in London national Sound from Hamburg has a different style and a dif- like The Wailers and Black Uh- “Gladdy had a very good before I was a year old to live by parents who had just emi- in Germany played my debut ferent brand of word phrasing, uru. Franz says he cares about sound system in his shop and with my grandparents. There grated from the Caribbean is- album Babylon is Dead to Mr so I guess it’s kind of interest- the past and pay tribute to the Dougie would come by and was strong racial tension in lands of Trinidad & Tobago. Williamz while he was in Ger- ing and unique also,” he says, reggae that was produced in test his productions there. We London at the time, so there- But Franz did not stay long in many for a show, and he told and gives an example: the 70’s and 80’s. became friends and began fore they moved me away. I England. His parents felt that to work together. I think I’ve Curtis about me,” explains know it was a tough decision they could not ensure a suffi- Franz, and adds: “Living in the Land of Glory “I grew up in the country managed to get a completely [A Million Miles Away] tells the black Caribbean story in Britain, particularly in Lon- don. Every black artist that rises from these shores of late seems to just deal with the business side of things and not with any serious stand on any issue that affect black people in this country.” ------“Sing and dance to our own story” ------Franz’ recipe is to marry danceable music with real life frustrations and get the people who suffer from these frustrations to dance to them.

“If they do, in a matter of time, they will eventually realize that the greatest thing to do is really the easiest thing to do - and that is to unite. All we have to do is sing and dance to our own story,” he explains, and adds: Junior Murvin In 1976 when Junior Murvin “At night I work in a bus ga- voiced “I will always sing until my rage, just like the ordinary for Lee Scratch Perry over a eyes are closed” man. I see his will, his deter- rhythm laid by Boris Gardner, mination and strength to work Sly Dunbar and Ernest Ran- rock adoptee Willie Williams. You grew up in . and feed his family. And his glin, he had no idea it would At the time relations with the What was your own child- bright eyes that shine with resonate far beyond Jamaica. police were again strained in hood like there? hope for his children. I also It became a hit in the UK fol- the wake of the death of Smile see his tiredness and beaten- lowing the unrest at the heav- Culture, and a month after ri- I grew up as a Christian and up feeling, and wanting to ily policed 1976 ots would break out across the my grandmother was a Chris- escape from it all. I feel the Carnival, and was covered by capital, resulting in calls for tian. I was always appointed same feelings and that is why the punk band . 35 the Notting Hill Carnival to be to do something. I pumped I shout about them. It’s simply years later, with a new album, cancelled. Angus Taylor spoke the church organ and I rang important to me.” ‘On Stage’, in the works, the to Junior Murvin before the the church bell! For most of man from Port Antonio with show and reminisced about my childhood I had to do Interview by Erik Magni the alarming high falsetto his career and many legend- things in time. My grandmoth- Photos by Niculai Constan- returned to London to play ary artists he met along the er sent me to church in time, tinescu a concert with fellow punk way... I had to go to school in time - so I was kind of restricted mind were , Billy to Roland who said, “Bwoy, tor who carried us through. under good mannership from Eckstine, , Marvin youth sound good” so he told He was a good personality. I my grandmother Essie Smith, Gaye. Then in Jamaica you had me I must come to Kingston wrote for Derrick and may God bless her soul. , , the next week to audition. I Tang Tang Festival Song and . went to Beverleys where I was Yah Yabba Yah Festival Song Why did you make the move auditioned by Derrick Mor- by Keith and Tex. I was smok- to Trench Town via Montego How big an influence were gan, and ing when I wrote Solomon and Bay? and the Im- Desmond Dekker. But then my I wrote in about five minutes. pressions at the time? mother, I’m not sure whether Right after I drew the weed a While I was living in Port An- she built up a story saying I heard the song singing in my thony my grandmother died - He was the most influential had to go back to Montego head. she was my great grandmoth- roots singer. Roots that sing Bay but I went back home and er so I went to Montego Bay to all different kind of music. it never came through. Solomon was only beaten stay with my next grandmoth- Like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh off the number one spot by er when I was 12-13 years old. and Dennis Brown. Then you got your real break Toots 54-46 Was My Number I went to basic school in Port voicing for . after he got out of jail right? Antonio and attended Monte- What was your first break go Bay Technical High. Then I into music? Yes the next one which came That year those two songs left and went to stay with my through was with Mrs Pot- came out like two horses com- back and told my friend Jack- “Wha???” and finally it did auntie in Trench Town. My first break never went tinger for the first song I ever ing out of gate for a race. But I son he said “why not just call bring a joy that we did a spe- anywhere. It was actually my recorded called Miss Cushie don’t see the difference - they yourself Junior Soul?” cial for a sound together. This was in the rocksteady second break! When I was liv- [sings] “I KNOW A WOMAN were just two great songs. The era. What music made an im- ing in Glendevon there was a BY THE NAME OF MISS CUSH- only difference was one song Which other singers did There was another Jun- pact on you at the time? Rastaman named Mr Sunny IE... SHE HAD A LITTLE PUSSY can’t stay forever. Solomon Monty link you with? ior Soul in America wasn’t who heard me singing. He CAT... SHE GAVE THAT CAT EVE- was number one and then in there? Definitely. I didn’t really have called me and said “There’s RYTHING THAT SHE HAVE... came 54-46. It didn’t take it Monty Morris carried me to favourite singers, not even a Rastaman up on the hill in ONE DAY THE CAT SAT IN THE down, it was just the time was Alton’s house when I was a lit- That other Junior Soul is a liar! now. Just the ones that sent Green Pan. You ever hear of a ROAD... A BOY ON A BICYCLE right for him to come down! tle youth and Alton asked me Not a good personality. That something smooth into my man name Roland Alphonso? HE RODE... AND KNOCKED THE (laughs) I once did a show as to sing and gave me a spliff next Junior Soul he used to mind. The singers that really You can audition up there”. PUSSY CAT TO THE GROUND... a youth and Toots shook my first. And when he gave me trim me. He used to trim me, sent soothing things to my So I went up the hill and sang MISS CUSHIE SAID MI WAN MI hand. Years later I reminded that spliff it was like a song Busty Brown from the Chosen PUSSY CAT!” (Laughs) That him about it. came to me and just out of Few and Derrick Harriott in was my first song for Mrs Pot- nowhere I started to sing! Jones Barber shop - one of the tinger. But I didn’t stay with How did you get the name The herb carried me now and most popular barber shops in her very long. Junior Soul? started throwing my voice up Kingston. His name was Jun- and in the air and down on ior too. But when they inter- Why did you leave to start There was a friend of mine the ground! And Alton said viewed him a couple of years working as a singer/song- named Jackson who used to “youth you wicked yunno”. after he told them that he writer with Derrick Harriott? live in Jonestown who taught I met Alton round Coxsone’s heard about the Jamaican Jun- me to play the guitar. Then a couple of weeks before he ior Soul. I thought “how can I was young and I never meant I met Eric Monty Morris and died and he was talking about this guy hear about me when any harm but I was moving he taught me to sing harmo- how Hugh Griffiths covered he used to trim me???” Crazy around! Derrick Harriot was nies. Monty would carry me his song and said “I told Hugh man! my mentor. He was a decent to different singers yards and Griffiths to cover your song chap. He dressed well, was at I would sing. One day I went because we are close and him What other memories do you tired properly, so we usually to ’s home and love you”. And I told him “re- have from the Derrick Harriott liked to see him. He was a men he said to Monty “Youth here member years ago when you years? have soul”. So when I went gave me a spliff?” and he said Now this is one thing I don’t Me, Dennis Brown and Wil- a great experience because with the bass player and he thing! remember all the time - The low who plays and is a great arranger. said he was going to sell his Yes with the Apostles band Diamonds. I used to audition is in America teaching music drum set! (laughs) So he sold that backed Burning Spear. I Tell me about your 1982 al- for Derrick Harriott and these as well as Busty Brown from So with such a lively scene the drum set and then this carried them there. I named bum Badman Posse for Mikey three guys came to me and the Chosen Few and a good going on in Kingston why did lady who liked we came to me the band and everything. They Dread. it sounded good. So I went female singer. A lady called you go back to Port Antonio and said “Murvin, we can’t af- did the backing for me. The outside the shop and called Miss Ivy. Then the band was and join Young Experience? ford fi make this band mash up Bradshaw brothers from Nor- Disastrous! That guy was dis- Derrick and said “these three defunct and the members yunno. I know a bank manager wich were the management. astrous man. I didn’t get any- guy a wicked! Come listen to went their ways. It was just feelings - noth- where you can borrow some thing for the album. Nothing them!” I never knew it was ing outrageous and nothing money and purchase a van.” Police and Thieves got big but a thousand dollars. the Diamonds! Whenever I see You did just one song for bad. Just to kind of cool out. There was a rich Chiney who at Notting Hill Carnival 1976 Tabby and those guys I get a Clive Hunt as Junior Soul, I joined my next band Young lived in Port Antonio called when there were tensions After you welcome. They respect me to Curtis Mayfield’s Super Love Experience and started sing- Lee who used to manage the between police and carnival worked with Junjo Lawes? the max. - that got reissued by Blood ing in hotels. They were a band but Lee said he was not goers. With police brutality & Fire back in 2001. bunch of talented guys from going to sign the loan. So the still an issue in London is the Junjo was a slick guy. Every Is it true that you auditioned Port Antonio. A guy named Jer- band split up. message still relevant? day he’d change into yellow for Lee Scratch Perry at Cox- Well this one is a joke! (laughs) ry Harris who usually played clothes, white clothes, yel- sone’s in 1967 long before Clive Hunt came from the guitar and sang. I brought Tell me about how you wrote Yes they told me it mashed low boots, blue boots, white you recorded for him in the army, he deserted the army. him into the band. Then there the songs you would record up the festival. It was the big boots, all form of things. He 70s? He is a great arranger but he was a guy named Earl Jackson with Lee Perry. You spent song of the festival. The star was kind of a hip guy. The al- deserted the army at a young who has the Native Studio in some time in solitude didn’t tune.The message is still rel- bum Muggers On the Street I auditioned for the Wailers. age and came to Derrick Har- Port Antonio who played the you? evant. I never knew it would did well. Greensleeves took it Peter, Bunny and Bob. But riott when all of us used to go bass. Then there was Linford be relevant now. I never knew and it sold well. when I sang this song they down to Derrick Harriott and Richards who usually played About three weeks after the about that. I just sang songs said they wanted one more play my guitar. He had some with Burning Spear, a great band mashed up there comes and then it coincided. I was Both you and Willie Williams verse so I had to go and stand friends in America who were guitarist who is now playing the idea for Police and Thieves! young at that time but there had your tunes covered by by a big tree at Coxsone’s looking for someone who with the Jolly Boys. And then I wrote that in Port Anthony came this great musical vibes the Clash. What did you where Scratch would always could sing close to Curtis May- Fitzroy Frank on drums who after smoking little herbs at a in my head where I can’t really think of the punk cover of be but when I went there he field so Clive came to me and played with Sonny Bradshaw place named Folly. It’s an old tell you what was going on! your song? Did you listen to never came. Bob, he talked said “Gimme a love... we have for a little time. And then the building that a lady was try- Natural. any punk music at the time? good things about me. Peter to dweet yunno. I’ve made the vocalist was Carol Nelson who ing to build but she used the Tosh and Bunny too, I was riddim for you already.” Clive is now living in Canada and salt water with the material How did you link with Joe (thinks) Lee Perry used to play amongst them when Derrick knew how to do the vocal ar- the next vocalist who came and it fell apart. I used to go Gibbs? Tell me about Cool one or two. I really liked the Harriott used to have a shop rangement because he is a in when she went away was a up there and cool out, write Out Son. Police and Thieves version. near Beeston Street. The Wail- great arranger, he plays the young woman called Amanda songs burn a little spliff and It just crossed over to see ers and the Heptones and and he did horn ar- Care. We went around play- get a little vibes. Three weeks After I left Scratch I went to it’s friends so I’m happy! I’m brother Toots. rangements for big stars like ing the North Coast when they after I went to Scratch and he him and did Cool Out Son and happy for any band who sings Peter Tosh, Bob all those guys. opened the big hotels there. put in a couple of words. Chris some other songs. We were it back. I wish them the best! You were also in bands with And when I went to sing the We played in Cuba for the Blackwell came in, listened to rehearsing with the band and When people are brutalised and Dennis song it was in my key because Prime Minister’s wife Beverley it, liked it, loved how I sing. He the guitarist got miserable. by a certain section of soci- Brown for a while. he was a smart musician and Manley’s birthday party and signed me for three albums I said “Patient man ride don- ety they grasp for songs that from playing the guitar with we played for Norman Manley. but I only did one because Lee key” and that was how the teach them reality and good Yes the first band I sang with me he knew my key. His friend Perry and him had some disa- song Cool Out Son came up. uplifting things to move with. was the Hippie Boys with Fami- rolled a big spliff and blew the Why did Young Experience greeable things. Every time he heard that song I wouldn’t even say Police and lyman and his brother. Me and smoke in the room then kicked split? the guitarist would look at me Thieves is a song. I would say Maxie Romeo were the vocal- me in there and shut the door You recorded a second album because it was his idea the it has moved from a song to a ists in my first band. Then we and said “sing!” (laughs) But It went defunct again because with Scratch that was never song came out of! I owe him proverb. A proverb is greater had a band named Falcons. it was a good gesture and the drummer had something released. still I should give him some- than a song, I would put it that way. Music doesn’t carry a grievance to nobody. It’s just in the lyrical content. Music only talks to you when you play it. The Upsessions Music can’t say “hey no play me””. Music can’t do that! So as long as the man them sing the conscious things we can Below The Belt uplift the nation with it. But if you deal with violence, violent strumental, with sombre trom- and downgrading lyrics that bone while the album opener call the woman “Gyal” and that is bright and vivacious with big sort of thing there “Gyal yuh spaghetti western style horn underwear” and “siddung pon arrangements. Sandwiched in it” I have no business with it. between is some traditional sounding ska of Oh Cinnamon Who is coming out with the there was an island across I You’re still based in Port An- and Lucile, the rocksteady right lyrics today? and could make my voice echo tonio. Why have you kept such breeze of Ease Up, Adina and over there. Then one morning I strong links there all through Cool & Deadly plus the funky You have . went to the 20th fret and I just your life? reggae aspirations of Prince Singing Melody is special to left it and didn’t go back. I hit Naseem and the album title me because he told me it was a note once at a hotel and I Most of my songs come from my track Below The Belt amongst my voice that he used to prac- blacked out after I hit the note. hometown but it’s not that that others. tice. You have the group LUST That note was near to the 22nd really keeps me there. I love my - they are a great set of singers. fret of the guitar so I decided hometown and I’m planning to Vocalist Boss van Trigt is not I was supposed to sing with to come down. Once I was with do some things for the young- the strongest, but he has im- in a group. He Lee Perry voicing a tune and er generation. I’m working on proved since their previous sent for me to sing but I didn’t when I hit the note his console the children thing - some basic outing but still works best go because I heard that he re- got distorted. He said “Blood- schools for the children. I’m an when he’s going for a DJ style hearsed very hard! Beres is a claat, Murvin wha you gwaan educator in that section. that has just an inkling of I-Roy favourite friend and a great with man? The console ah dis- about it. singer like Dennis and Bob. turb on mi four track!” Because What advice would you have in those times when I was sing- for young artists and your This album offers nothing that Let’s talk about your own ing if your material wasn’t good fans? hasn’t been heard before, but voice. You are known for your my voice would make it look An enjoyable Reggae’ left off with some, at that said with its mix of styles high falsetto but you can also bad. It can’t fit the voice be- It pays to be good. In what times, crazy lyrics and most and elements of fun from a sing in many different regis- cause the voice was too strong you’re doing just do it good. ride on some importantly that infectious up- band that doesn’t take its self ters. How big a vocal range do for that. I once went to sing a Live good, that’s my saying. refreshed early beat feel. too seriously it makes for an you have? dubplate at a little studio and Because it will come back for reggae sounds. enjoyable ride on some re- when I hit certain notes there you to enjoy it or it will come The album opens with a shoot freshed early reggae sounds. I usually sing high but I start- was a big problem - computer back to haunt you. Tell my fans out on Mocca Cowboy Rides ed taking it down because the got mixed up! (laughs) But to I wish the best for them and These self confessed, track Again and ends with a Gun- Review by Karl Pearson notes were getting too fine. A train my voice I jog hard and love them and I will always sing suit wearing, rude boys from fight On The Westbank Of The guitar has 22 frets (although don’t smoke nor drink. But I until my eyes are closed. Holland are back with their Mississippi and despite a simi- some have 25). Usually when took it down because the notes third album that contains yet lar theme in their titles the I practice my notes I take it to got too high. I like to sing cooler Interview by Angus Taylor more ska and rocksteady in- two songs couldn’t be more the 18th fret. Every morning I and more relax because I used Photos by Veronique Skel- fused grooves that follow on different with the later being used to go to Folly house and to get hot you know bwoy! sey from where 2009s ‘Beat You something of a brooding in- tunity, as would the very strong and hard to shake out of one’s brain Replay. That song links J-Boog Boog with the also constantly impressing and supremely tal- ented Swede, Million Stylez. Backyard Boogie J Boog also shows a bit of di- versity and flexibility within his skills as well. Although he Flaming soul- has made his name as [and will ful singer does likely always be known as] a as expected Lover’s Rock singer and it is his dominant strength, he does and delivers in switch things up and offer lis- a big way. teners a few twists and turns throughout ‘Backyard Boogie’. Few names in Reggae music, on any level, have attracted more Almost surely the musical zig- attention or been on better zag which will grab the most musical streaks recently than attention is Hawaiian Pakalolo the impressive California born on which J Boog blazes with Jah crooner, J Boog. His burgeon- Maoli [who apparently origi- ing popularity has become very nated the tune] and Spawn- interesting as, not only has breezie. The song rides the he managed to attract more Taxi Riddim and has proven to ‘mainstream’ eyes and ears, be an early favourite from the he’s also experienced a surge album. amongst the more typical Reg- gae faithful and hardcore fans Also check the sterling open- and music makers. Besides, er, Give Thanks and Watch obviously, having pretty good & Learn with Jacob Hemphill management, J Boog’s boom- from the band SOJA - Two very ing might be traced to the fact known, mostly, as “that album the album’s major hit are other non Lover’s Rock and more that he has made some very with ‘Let’s Do It Again’ on it” romantic winners such as the Reggae-centric compositions strong music over the past year as the huge future classic Don infectious She Give Me Lovin, - dealing with social, cultural appeal of the album is very cal results were expected as or two and, at a nearly perfect Corleon produced tune is not which features Reggae star and spiritual topics. Later on, impressive and when you fuse well: Very well done and one of time, he delivers his sopho- only present but is also, unsur- , previous single J Boog sets fire again with the over that the excellent vibe 2011’s best.. more studio album [following prisingly, the project’s finest Sunshine Girl alongside Peetah mighty Wolves and Let It Blaze, coming from the project, the another very impressive ganja 2007’s ‘Hear Me Roar’], the moment. Morgan [and produced by the prevailing feel is that J Boog Review by Ras Achis much anticipated ‘Backyard Morgans as well] and the very tune. and company really realized Boogie’ for the Hawaiian based However, with that being said, smooth Shane Brown helmed and appreciated the magni- Wash House Music. as previously mentioned, J Let Me Know. The entire set is very well done. tude of what they were doing. Boog has been on a great roll It also shouldn’t go without be The results amongst fans have This album is really really good. as of late and that continues All three would, presumably, said that ‘Backyard Boogie’ already shown as, reportedly, throughout the whole of this do a significant amount of is one of the best sounding the album is doing very well Casually, it is perhaps to be boogie. On a similar note to damage if afforded the oppor- albums of the year. The sonic commercially and the musi- CeCile Ruff Scott Jamaicanization Roots And Culture Ruffing Up of praise songs that follow, just because they can, Ruff Forward Ever and He is Real, Scott fully understands the duced the majority of the album, and the latter a tight straddling of symbiosis between lead vo- an album that includes no less roots and dancehall. After that cals and backing tracks and than 13 exclusives. Other produc- Smoothing conscious threesome, Scott is makes as much clear in keep- ers include Stephen McGregor, Out. entitled to veer off into lover’s ing his voice complimentary Tony “CD” Kelly and . If you’re a reggae artist and rock territory, which he does to the varied riddims. So he on Make You Smile, complete goes full throttle when neces- Ce’Cile is still outspoken, but her you release an album called with r & b overtones, female sary, as on the soca grooves lyrics aren’t blunt or lewd. Her ‘Roots and Culture’, you had response vocals, and, most of Don’t Waste My Time and singing is seductive, energetic best be certain that the music importantly, Scott dialing back Good Vibration, but mellows and melodic. And several songs is reflective of such a title and for songs like the lovely could reach high on both dance that yours is a voice Steal Your Joy, a stand- charts and radio charts around the strong and distinc- out track with an almost globe. Check Up on the Dancefloor tive enough to over- Lusafrican feel to its ar- to get in a weekend party mood. come a title that’s, well, kind of generic. rangement. But ‘Jamaicanization’ also offers The musical ground honey drenched pop melodies, Ruff Scott hails from Scott covers -ranging great harmonies and hooks that Manchester, Jamai- from healthy eating and would make Rihanna and Nicki Mi- ca but has spent exercise habits to par- naj envious. OK With You, Cheater most of his life in taking of a little herb- is or Where You Want Me will hope- New York City. And nice and wide, and his fully appeal to a urban music fans. as far as his having a distinctive voice, array of toasts, scats, squeaks, falsetto jumps The best highlights are however his growling but and straight ahead sing- But for her sophomore album the Agent Sasco duet Hey with its clear singjay style Ce’Cile more ing always suits what ‘Jamaicanization’ she is cleaner infectious groove and sing-a-long was one I’d already he’s on about. Backed radio-friendly than ever, and this album show- chorus or Singing This Song with heard and enjoyed by a crew called the Ly- than ever on cases a sexy yet mature sound. its video game-like keyboards. on a few reggae compilations origi- festyle Band (which in- Jamaicaniza- his aggressive delivery to suit cludes multi-instrumentalist ‘Jamaicanization’ is a diverse set With ‘Jamaicanization’ Ce’Cile nating in the NYC vicinity. the lighter tone. In so doing, and producer Julien C. Paul), tion. consisting of 17 tunes (whereof has shown that she’s a force he establishes one key reason Scott lays expertly into a set of one is a spoken intro by Rory that could put up a fight with ‘Roots and Culture’ is the first this 18-track disc holds an en- refreshing reggae while hold- Jamaican singjay Ce’Cile is (in) of Stone Love Movement). It U.S. RnB artists for the top full length set of Ruff Scott gaging vibe throughout: the ing to the belief that roots and famous for her lewd lyrics and ranges from straight modern spots in the urban music charts. works I’ve latched on to and artist never comes across with culture includes doses of fun. sexy appearance. Tunes such one drop reggae to ska inspired he’s impressive throughout, more intensity than is needed. as Give it To Me (about oral sex) dancehall, as in Want More. handily propelling the opening Review by Erik Magni Where many of his ilk go for a and the duet Can title track with his bouncing ca- Review by Tom Orr consistent rapid-fire approach You do di Wuk explains it all. German Ben Bazzazian has pro- dences and scoring on the pair I-Wayne Yabass - Back A Yard Dub A true under- Life Teachings ground foun- A lyrically and the cream of Jamai- dation dub en- can musicians and gineer. musically un- recorded in the clear compromising crisp contemporary work. style. The drumming During the past five years or in particular reads so dub engineer and multi in- like a who’s who of strumentalist YABASS has Milky voiced Portmore singer I- reggae trapsmen. frequented various artist com- Wayne’s third album is strong Squidly Cole gets militant on munity websites with his foun- Those who expect every al- medicine. Musically it is con- the thunderous rebuke Burn dation dub sounds. He has bum to be a vast progression summate modern roots reggae Down Soddom - replete with been in various bands most in sound will not find what they and dancehall music. Lyrically cuica drum and dubby tape de- notably Creation Rockers with seek here. This is the same I- it is equally uncompromising: lays. Firehouse Crew’s George fellow producer The Manor and Wayne: whose cherubic voice issuing a series of proscrip- Dusty Miller drives Herb Fe Le- players Drummie Dan, Papa D still contrasts wildly with the tions on all aspects of behav- galize - a sequel to his Hand- and Mac although his musi- unflinching earthiness of his iour from the political to the cart Band backed classic More cal repertoire goes back to the words (defecation, parasites personal, from the social to the Herbs (included on his debut 1970s having appeared on an and venereal disease are com- criminal. In these times its rare longplayer ‘Lava Ground’). Alton Ellis single and having mon images and metaphors). that a reggae album be made Then there’s Kirk “Kirkledove played in session with the Skin He still flits between one drop, with the works of one producer Bennett” on the soulful I Care Flesh & Bones band at Chalk hip hop and dancehall main- (Sizzla’s ‘The Scriptures’ with For You and Sly Dunbar (with Farm studio to name check but taining his declamatory Rasta John John/Jammys was a wel- Robbie on bass) on ideal wom- 2 adventures from time and message all the while. He tar- skanks (Tectonic Plate Shift) indeed he has finally finished come recent exception) and for an ode Empress Divine. The now, right up to date -and sur- gets all forms of perceived and (Grand Theft Dub) whilst some of his early demo works most albums the trick is to en- second segment moves seam- prisingly to many- his first ever wrongdoing from rapists, drug utilizing the famous bleeps, that were first showcased in sure some sense of flow. The lessly into moody “conscious” album release, a 12 track clas- dealers and heavyhanded po- ping fx and filtering so lovingly raw form on the community huge variety of different sourc- dancehall. Boardhouse Re- sic style dub offering entitled lice to dietary and, more con- used by dub engineers back in sites 5 years ago and they now es for Warrior King’s recent ‘Tell cords single the Fire Song with ‘Back A Yard Dub’. tentiously, sexual practice (al- the day throughout the album, make their official appearance Me How Me Sound’ used co- gives way to Drugs though it should be noted that his bass playing ever consist- on this debut release. A true producer Bulby’s mix to attain and Rum Vibes produced by For those of you who are fa- he focuses on the acts them- ent. Yabass’ sound has a dis- underground foundation dub a general overall gloss. By con- Imran “Fire Peter” Bassard and miliar with and enjoy Yabass’ selves rather than singling out torted clarity yet is ultimately engineer. trast ‘Life Teachings’ relies on Brendan Murphy and the Rasta foundation style of dub mixing any group of people). The re- organic and full of warmth with a sufficient number of produc- sermon Wise and Fearless for and style of playing will be de- sult is a subtle refinement of the music pointing to those ‘Back A Yard Dub’ is available tions for I-Wayne’s contracted Loyal Soldiers affiliate Ronald lighted to know that he’s kept his considerable talents across classic ’79 – ’83 dub years. in stores now on Pheonix City label Loyal Soldiers to keep a “Sonny Spoon” Wright. Finally to his trademark by keeping his strongest set yet - in every Some of you may recognise a Records. common thread throughout. we go back to Loyal Soldiers his famous ‘ghost reverb’ mix- sense of the word. couple or three of the tunes pre- one drop (for the scathingly ing sound on his drum and hi sented in this album for he has The first section, all helmed by anti Babylonian title track) and hat channels (Black Bird Hill Review by Gibsy revisited his foundation style Patrick Henry at Loyal Soldiers the odd hip hop influence (Et- Review by Angus Taylor Dub) and by keeping his early fondly recognised by under- and mixed by Shane Brown, is ana duet Life Joy) - the perfect 80s style deep tone piano in ground fans circa 2007-2008 straight roots reggae played by synthesis of old and new. compliment to his sharp guitar Bunny Lee and The Agrovators Raging Fyah Judgement Day Dub Will Change It’s a long soon, they amazed local music professionals. When Ellen Köh- time/I nuh lings and Pete Lilly, the editors groove like in chief of RIDDIM, travelled to Your Mind this Jamaica earlier this year, Rag- ing Fyah got a thorough cover And that is why it is a sheer joy tion and offers sublime music Autotune and cheap digital rid- story - before the release of to listen to King Spinna’s ‘Dub that many people didn’t even dims seem to have ruled Jamai- their debut album. Surprised? a contemporary feel, without will Change Your Mind’. Here know existed until now. Almost can for way too long Press play on ‘Judgement Day’ actually incorporating season- is an album with genuine rari- not Bunny Lee himself as stat- now. There are exceptions, of and you will not be anymore. able urban music. Conscious ties never compiled on album ed in the press material. course, but they rather prove roots reggae is on the rise before. the rule. Roots reggae is still Earthy, groovy basslines catch again, and ‘Judgement Day’ ‘Dub will Change Your Mind’ alive in Europe, with more or you instantly. Slow beats catch is the best prove to that claim The cornerstone is dub ver- is initially released on vinyl less the same artists touring your attention, with hi-hats and one could imagine. Köhlings sions of four little-known Der- in a pressing limited to 1,000 regularly, performing the very snares getting good workouts. and Lilly, perhaps lacking the rick Morgan tracks. Included copies. Subject to demand a same songs they got famous Sweeping keyboards soak you right words as I do right now, are also vocals from Bunny CD issue will follow featuring for two or three decades ago. in, there is no escape. Guitars coined the term postmodern Lee’s favorites Johnny Clarke three bonus tracks. All tracks In recent years though, a roots weep, mourn and skank. Re- roots to better grasp it. and , but also are currently also available for reggae band scene evolved laxed, distinct voices sing lyr- Real gems on Ronnie Davis, Jackie Edwards, download from via the King back ah yard, largely unno- ics that soothe you, lyrics that With this sweet-sweet album, King Spinna’s John Holt and Joy White. Spinna website. ticed to reggae lovers and even strangely seem to reconcile the Raging Fyah already entered journalists outside of Jamaica. infinite antagonisms of - first release. the eternal hall of fame of reg- It is concentrated around the Review by Erik Magni Dubtonic Kru and No Maddz ern life. Third World, evokes gae music. Not having this period 1974 to 1978 and high- are examples of bands that your brain. Bob Marley, says In the press material for the album in your collection of re- lights the funky flying cym- emerged from this scene, both your heart. Something brand first release on the newly es- cords would be an unforgiv- bals style pioneered by drum- had some impact in Europe re- new and deeply touching, says tablished King Spinna label – able mistake. I am really look- mer Carlton “Santa” Davis. cently. your soul. founded by Bob Harding and Throughout, the tough riddims ing forward now to Judgement Dom Sotgiu from the legend- Day - if only to hear Raging supplied by The Agrovators are The most brightly shining While ‘Judgement Day’ con- ary Blood and Fire Records – it Fyah playing music for the re- superbly rearranged with echo, stars from that context, if you tains only eleven tunes - one is stated that the market is sat- bels, playing sweet in heaven. reverb and delay by the talent- ask me, are Raging Fyah. The of them had been recorded urated with albums of Bunny ed engineer(s) at ’s live during a concert-, the tre- Lee produced dubs from King group, consisting of six musi- studio. cians and singers (all attended mendous quality of each one Review by Valentin Zill Tubby’s studio. That’s no exag- makes more than up for it. This geration to say the least. the Edna Manley College of the King Spinna certainly follows in Visual and Performing Arts), is pure, classical roots reg- the great Blood and Fire tradi- came together in 2006. Very gae at its very best - yet it has The Bristol Reggae Denja - Vampire Slayer Explosion 2: The 1980s One of the most obscure Underexposed albums I have U.K. Reggae heard in a Gets a Go. very, very long time. I know the British reggae scene has been vibrant for decades. The second album from the I know that scene includes little known Canadian artist both homegrown artists and Denja is probably one of the Jamaicans who’ve made their most obscure albums I have way across the ocean to be a heard in a very, very long time. part of it. I know how particu- larly strong a force reggae is ‘Vampire Slayer’ takes tra- in London, a city I’ve twice had ditional dub style leanings the pleasure of traveling to. and throws into the mix What I didn’t know is how simi- some country and folk styl- larly mighty reggae is (or at ing to create something that least was) in the city of Bristol. verges on the unique in a I’ve no doubt there was a first world that seems to becom- volume that preceded ‘The ing more and more dominated Bristol Reggae Explosion 2’, by dub-by-numbers offerings. some rather erratic percussion. It has many flaws yet still but this series is as new to me somehow begs to be listened as most of the names of the It is a very contradictory al- Its an album that is very idio- to more and as a reviewer I singers and bands who cre- Dan Ratchet and Teknikal’s the odd but compelling vocal rather inconsequential Ragga- echoes that emerge through- bum in that it’s minimalist, yet syncratic yet very atmospheric find it most infuriating that I ated the music therein. Mostly with every listen I seem to hear and contains many elements struggle to explain it. It would of the roots variety, the tracks muffin Girl and The Radicals’ out Bunny Marrett’s Times somewhat better Time Out, Are Getting Harder, Cool Run- something new, it’s not full of of Perry, not classic Ark period be easy for me to dismiss it but here sound at once Jamaican- bass heavy reverberation but that most try to emulate but if you go into it with an open influenced and U.K.-bred, there’s nothing lightweight nings’ poignant Robin Hoods about this hour-plus of reggae. Of The Ghetto and the soul- is deep in other senses, its more on a par with what he and adventurous mind you bearing the same conscious- short, with many songs under was doing just a few years ago. may find something amongst ness and pulsating riddims drenched lead vocal and wind- Black Roots and Alfred McIn- ing sax solo on Little Eyes by two minutes, but seems long- Just the title evokes thoughts its almost shamanic quali- that marked the later roots era er and despite all the talk of of Perry, but is this his take on ties that you can take from it. in Jamaica. Since it’s the ‘80s tosh get two tracks each, the one Lord John Hutchinson. Al- latter’s a pair of sharply jolt- together an impressive set that dub its not a true dub album vampires or more as the cov- being covered, some of the as many of the tracks feature er would suggest just comic jauntiness of early dancehall ing dubs, the former’s every makes you want to discover Review by Karl Pearson bit as black and roots as the whatever further treats might vocals that are more spoken book horror….I just can’t tell. can be heard along with hints rather than sung and No Fear of the slide toward computer- band’s name suggests. Other be found at the same source. highlights include the under- Of Death, On A Bench, All That It’s an album that dares to be ized arrangements that were Glitters and Stake Through The different and as such will be- beginning to invade reggae stated determination of Josh- Review by Tom Orr ua Moses’ opening Rise Up, Heart are played on acoustic muse as much as it will amuse. at the time. Still, apart from guitar accompanied in parts by Peter Tosh Lights Up The Reggae University Sugar Minott format was complemented by that Tosh’s judgement was a selection of anecdotes and excellent on such matters as insights, many of which al- racism (e.g. rejecting big mon- lowed Steffens to bring the ey offers to play in apartheid Hard Time Pressure deceased Tosh to life for the ), equal rights, audience. He also wisely used cannabis legalisation and re- A great intro- ades and he has an enor- the expertise of reggae au- fusing to accept Bunny Wail- mous amount of albums and thors John Masouri and Colin er’s invitation to open for him duction to the productions behind him. Grant – both of whom ad- on a European tour. dressed the University earlier late Sugar Mi- On the issue of the relation- Now reggae giant VP Records’ in the evening - to add to his nott. The Life of Peter Tosh ship between the 3 Wailers, it subsidiary 17 North Parade commentary on the aforemen- at Rototom Reggae was notable that Colin Grant has given it a try to portray tioned film clips. University. (who claims to ‘act the idiot’ The late Lincoln ”Sugar” Mi- him on the three disc compi- Amongst the most humorous to disarm people!) pointed out nott is a pivotal figure in the lation ‘Hard Time Pressure’. It On the 8th day of the RO- of his stories was Tosh’s tele- that the most common cause history of Jamaican music. collects 36 tracks from almost TOTOM reggae festival 2011 phone call to the New York po- of conflict between Bob, Peter ten different albums from the the eagerly anticipated hom- lice to report his stolen herb and Bunny related to matters He started his career as one third late 70’s to mid 80’s and also age to Peter Tosh was held at stock! Understandably this re- of scripture! Contrary to the of vocal harmony group the Af- includes a DVD of Sugar Minott ings ‘Hard Time Pressure’ is the Reggae University. Using quired the quick intervention impression given in the Step- rican Brothers in the mid 70’s. live at Japansplash in 1986. an excellent introduction to his finely tuned presentation one of Jamaica’s greatest and skills, the Wailers’ guru Roger of his assistant, who assured pin Razor film (on Tosh), it was the police on their arrival at also reassuring to hear that The group split up after a few The majority of the album most important artists. But Steffens brought the legend- the hotel reception that the though there had been some years and Sugar Minott went is made up of self-produc- to get a more comprehen- ary Tosh to life for the large matter had been a complete tension between these art- solo and started a new ca- tions that have Sugar Mi- sive picture of this maestro and appreciative audience – misunderstanding! ists, Tosh was genuinely upset reer at Studio One, where he nott’s emotional and ho- I suggest that you also get which included Rita Marley. at the passing of his soul mate became a pioneer in version- nied voice flowing smoothly yourself a copy of the album Steffens opened his presenta- In the heat of the homage Bob. Notably Grant’s work on ing the label’s riddims, origi- over laid-back roots riddims. ‘Sugar Minott at Studio One’. it would be easy to forget nally recorded in the 60’s and tion by warning listeners that the Wailers reminds us that ‘Peter Tosh must not be for- that Peter Tosh was no saint. though Marley preached in- early 70’s. His recordings re- But producers such as George Review by Erik Magni gotten’. He can rest assured Though militant and aggres- ner peace and serenity to the sulted in the two masterpiec- Phang and Sly & Robbie also that this will not happen. And sive, he was not a physically masses, he was so tortured es ‘Live Loving’ and ‘Show- turns up on dancefloor fillers he can take much credit for violent man. But being hu- by angst over his race that he case’ and earned him the Buy off the Bar, Devil’s Pick- the fact that it will not hap- man, he did have his ‘blind actually used shoe polish to title Godfather of Dancehall. ney and Rub a Dub Sound. pen. To ensure that the show spots’. For example, Stef- blacken his hair! was far from a standard bor- fens reminded the audience But Sugar didn’t stay at Studio Included are also some rarer ing college lecture, it was built that (early Wailers’ coach) Joe John Masouri - whose new One. He left and started a long tunes. One of those is the around 12 rare film clips of Higgs had to take legal action book on the life of Tosh is and fruitful career as a produc- weird Christmas Time with its Tosh performing and being in- against Tosh to get his right- imminent - also advised the er, singer, songwriter, sound off-key children choir. It should terviewed. Amongst the best ful dues for the Steppin Razor audience that Tosh had ‘the system operator and label have been left in the drawer. composition. It was also re- patience of a saint’ – which owner responsible for finding of the clips shows Tosh giving of his very best on a version of vealed that some journalists was especially evident in the talents such as the late singers It’s also a bit unfortunate that Legalise It for U.S. television. adjudged Tosh to be insane face silly questions from igno- Tenor Saw and Garnett Silk. it doesn’t include any material Another (most unexpected) and suitable for confinement rant interviewers. The author from his sojourn at Studio One. in a mental institution! What- also insisted that Tosh’s work Sugar Minott’s career spans clip features him acting in a Brazilian soap opera! This ever about that, Steffens cor- ‘mattered then and it really over more than three dec- Despite one or two shortcom- rectly advised the audience matters now’ (e.g. on matters of racism, nuclear war, Pal- interviews Tosh in the estine). Entertaining the wake of Marley’s passing. Celebration Held for Dennis Brown audience with fascinating On the sensitive subject of insights into the artist’s life who was the ‘new King of National Heroes Award he concluded that Tosh’s reggae’, Tosh advises that assassination – which the ‘they say I’m the new King of Dennis Brown was deceased had a premoni- reggae, but that’s not right, posthumously award- tion of – was no murder, but because I’m not new’. Typi- ed the Commander of a planned assassination. cally fluent Tosh! Steffens, The Order of Distinc- Masouri, Grant (together tion on October 17th. Earlier in the day the Uni- with author Dave Katz, who Twelve years after his passing, versity audience enjoyed chaired the session) have one of Jamaica’s most loved a film on trombonist Rico done their bit to ensure reggae artistes, Dennis Emma- Rodriguez, made by Span- that - even if only in spirit nuel Brown was posthumously ish\Catalan trombonist Jep and influence – it really is a awarded the Commander of Jorba (Rico Rodriguez – The case of ‘Long live the King’. Legacy). The film, set in The by the Barcelona, covers the art- Government of Jamaica. The ist’s life, where he tells us award was accepted by his ‘suffering has been my con- Report by Gerard McMahon late widow, Yvonne Brown. The stant companion’. Amongst event which was held on Na- the many treasures in this tional Heroes day took place at legacy is Rico’s contribu- Kings House in the capital city, tion to the classic Spe- Kingston. cial’s song A Message To Among others to be recognized You Rudy. For all lovers of from the music fraternity were a live brass section in reg- singer and key- gae music this work is well board player . Later worth seeing, though there on that evening the Dennis will be many who would ar- Brown Trust Foundation held a gue with Rico’s suggestion special celebration in honour that ‘only Jamaicans can of the Crown Prince of Reggae, play the reggae’! It would among those who performed also have been interesting were , Freddie to have gotten a reaction McGregor, , Pam to his 2007 award for ser- Hall, and Marla and vices to music at Bucking- Dina, both daughters of Dennis ham Palace of an M.B.E. Brown. The event took place at (Member of the Order of Chasers Cafe, New Kingston. the British Empire). Of course given Peter Tosh’s comment on Buckingham Palace it most unlikely he Report and photos would ever have been invit- by Steve James ed inside the Palace gates! Closing the evening’s pro- ceedings Steffens ran a short clip where he Zion Train (all from the aforementioned in biochemistry and was set being belted out by Dubdadda. 2007 award winning issue). By to proceed down the doctoral Practical financial reasons in Dublin the time the 1999 Beware warn- route. However academia’s force most touring reggae out- ing was issued, the crowd had loss was ‘psychedelic reggae’s’ fits to pass on the expense of a transformed into a mesmer- gain, as an evening in the com- live brass set ... not so with Z.T., The Zion Train pulls ised mass, swaying in trance pany of the wily Jah Shaka at a as courtesy of David Fullwood’s into Dublin. until the encore prompted the sound system dance served as trumpet and Richard Doswell’s well received War In Babylon a ‘supernatural and spiritual tenor saxophone, the audience To the delight of their large – arguably the most popular experience’. This was a wel- received full service in the first multinational fan base, the offering of the evening from come development as, once class carriage for the complete Zion Train (Z.T.) expedition the ‘Love Revolutionaries’ CD – again, the evening’s show left mesmeric trance journey to pulled into Dublin station (Ire- though keenly contested by the the audience in no doubt as heaven! land) in early October to deliver Rainbow Children track from to who was really running the a blistering one and a half hour the new CD, compiled with the show. Yet another endearing fea- set. It is heartening that this assistance of ’s Brinsley ture of this band’s pioneering European outpost remains on Forde. The Train is conducted by Dub- dance\dub sound system style their tour schedule, where they dadda\Johnno – whose vo- is their capacity to effectively always receive as rapturous a The Z.T. locomotion has clocked cal deliveries, kiss blowing, mix real roots reggae with a welcome as was extended to up much mileage since its ig- manic stage stomping move- myriad of contemporary styles. is significantly fuelled by their musical predecessors - nition on the reggae tracks in ments, scowling facial gri- Indeed their early albums (e.g. worldwide touring and collabo- Bob Marley and the Wailers - 1990. Driven by Neil Perch (the maces, endless exhortations A Passage To Indica), have been rations, serving to expose the back in 1980! band’s producer and multi- and perverse postures cum cited as primary influences on group to both musical and po- instrumentalist), with flowing finger pointing would enable the techno and dub genres. litical developments. As Dub- Their show is best reflected locks he has steered the ‘Train’ him to comfortably pass for the The oft repeated criticism that dadda explained: ‘we’ve been in the mass of frenzied youth to many stations around the hunchback of Notre Dame! His reggae has been left behind for round the world ... and now erupting to the unfolding clas- world. His influence has en- presence makes for quite the its failure to adapt adequately we’re back again’! sic set. Laced with high qual- sured that they are one of the visual spectacle ... don’t take to musical change cannot be ity content from their recently world’s most prolific groups, your eyes of the action for you levelled at this group. An open- So the best advice I can offer released CD ‘State of Mind’, as along with a gargantuan will surely miss something nov- ness to modern dance styles you is – as good brother Bob the show whipped the large recorded output, innumerable el. Encouraging active partici- alongside the staple ingredi- sang: if the Zion Train is com- audience into a frenzy from the production credits, remixes pation throughout (e.g. ‘show ents of brass, bass, dubwise ing your way ... get on board! start, and kept them there until and song writing collabora- of hands for those who love rhythms and hard electronic No excuses, because we know the end. The new release is the tions they have also produced marijuana?), a disbelieving au- beats and strings ensures that that: ‘where there’s a will, official follow up to their 2007 magazines, CD-ROMs, Inter- dience were advised that they Z.T. are welcome at almost any there’s always a way’. Jamaican Reggae Grammy net sites and even built sound should ‘make a granddaddy station they should care to pull The Dublin audience had no ‘Best Dub Album’ award win- systems. happy’ and erupt even further! into. ner ‘Live as One’. However the complaints ... they only wanted set also appropriately tapped Twiddling numerous knobs si- For lovers of a live horns’ sec- Unlike many of their musical more! into the band’s extensive back multaneously, the articulate, tion, the group make for an contemporaries, Z.T. also dis- Report by Gerard McMahon catalogue, with popular num- multi-lingual, political and ideal evening. A welcome and play a keen awareness of polit- bers such as Terror Talk lifting philosophical Perch presents persistent feature of the Z.T. ical (mal) practices. Hence they the roof, even when it seemed as the ‘master at the con- sound entails the intermit- pull no punches in pronouncing it could go no higher. trols’, as he steers the multi- tent restraining refrain or lilt on the evils of the world and carriage Z.T. round many tight of the brass duo, set sharply the urgency required in setting The evening’s pace was hectic, corners and through the odd in contrast with the thudding, them to right, as themes of Jah, from the opening provocatively dark tunnel. In the mid 80’s, echoing bass and provocative, Babylon, war, violence and love conscious Bloodlines, Forward Perch got his Master’s degree predominantly political lyrics proliferate. This consciousness Ever and Give Me Good Sensi Natty King and Ras Zacharri in Paris

Natty King and Ras Zacharri played in Paris on October 15th at Glazar’t.

Ras Zacharri performed some tracks from his new album ‘New Horizon’ released in June. Natty King did a great perfor- mance and the crowd felt the good vibes. It was like 70 min- utes full of positive vibes. For the last track, Ras Zacharri joined Natty King to sing Ruff Road together. Check the photos of this show at Glazar’t, Paris.

Report and photos by Jennyfer Papin Queen Ifrica, Tony Rebel, Sly and Robbie and Junior Reid in Paris

On August 3, 2011 Paris had the great pleasure of hosting Queen Ifrica, Tony Rebel, Sly & Robbie and Junior Reid. They performed at La Plage de Glazart shortly after Garance Reg- gae Festival in the South of France.

Queen Ifrica entered the stage with vigor and gave a wonderful energetic performance. She was followed by her mentor Tony Rebel who also gave a joyful set for the audience to appreciate.

The first band exited the stage and next came on Rhythm Twins Sly & Robbie joined by Guitarist Daryl Thompson, Nambo Robinson on Trombone and Guillaume ‘Stepper’ Briard on Saxophone. They played some of their legendary riddims before Andrew and Wada Blood, sons of Junior Reid, entered the stage to sing a Dancehall song. Junior himself then performed and completed this musical evening.

Check the photos of this event promoted by Mediacom.

Report and photos by Franck Blanquin MAGAZINE

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