MAGAZINE #13 - November 2011

MIDNITE FRENCHIE DAVID KATZ INTERVIEW CE’CILE Leroy ‘Heptones’ Sibbles I-WAYNE

Peter Tosh - - Glen Washington - - Alpheus - Chuck Fender - Ras Shiloh - Dubmatix - Kehv - Collie Buddz - United Magazine #13 - November 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

• 14 • Frenchie 17 • Midnite 23 • David Katz on 26 • CeCile 31 • I-Wayne 34

3/ REVIEWS

• - The Ruler: 1972-1990 36 • Midnite - Kings Bell 37 • Dubmatix presents Clash of the Titans 38 The world is upside down • Four worthwhile EP’s 39 • Mungos Hi Fi – Forward Ever 40 In the early 70’s the great vocalist Joe Higgs sang ”They say the world is spin- • Ambassah - Rub A Dub Showcase Part II 42 ning around, I say the world is upside down.” He wasn’t singing about the state of the reggae industry at the time, but it could certainly be applied to the 4/ REPORTS industry today. • KEHV in Hollywood 43 • Glen Washington in Beverly Hills 45 In the eleventh issue of United Reggae Magazine I wrote that there’s a new • Chuck Fender in Venice 46 found interest in authentic reggae in . However, according to an inter- • Symposium in Kingston 47 view with Jamaican bad gyal Ce’Cile (page 31) you have to go abroad to find the • Alpheus and Ras Shiloh in 48 authentic Jamaican sound. She found what she was looking for in Germany. • Bob Andy Unplugged 50 • Collie Buddz and Gappy Ranks in Hollywood 52 • Chuck Fender and Johnny Clarke live in 54 And according to Frenchie (page 17) a Swede called Adde is responsible for some scorching beats that has started to mash up Jamaica. 5/ PHOTOS

These reflections are signs of an ever-changing and evolving music industry. • Etana in Paris 56 Jamaica will probably always be number one in reggae, but the island’s pro- ducers are facing an increased competition from around the world, competi- tion that will hopefully gain the industry as a whole.

All the articles in this magazine were previously published online on http://unitedreggae.com. This magazine is free for download at http://unitedreggae.com/magazine/. Not for resale. Cover photo by MARC ISMAEL United Reggae. All Rights Reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. ------Brooklyn United Reggae continues to ‘The Journey’ hits the He is not the first person in the UK producer Curtis Lynch has support reggae music in a va- streets on November 11th Jamaican music industry being issued a new 12” with vocals Bodega riety of ways. The latest ini- on digital platforms only. shot this year. In August Joel from Franz Job and the less- by Prince Polo tiative is to support Jamaican Chin - A&R for VP Records - was known singjay MasSicker. Both songstress Etana and U.S. born shot dead and Copper Cat was tunes come with the respective ------shot in January, reportedly for Prince Polo – a Brooklyn-based cultural singjay Chuck Fender dubs, with Curtis Lynch himself on their respective European robbed for his Blackberry de- stepping behind the steel pans reggae and dub producer, mu- vice. sician, and engineer – has re- tours. on Access Pans. cently put out his debut is popularly ‘Brooklyn Bodega’, an eleven Etana toured Europe this sum- The is classic Lynch – mer and made several memo- known for forming the group 80’s and early 90’s digital roots track vibrant collection rooted Dub Store is at it again with an- in 1962. After in dub that also incorporates other batch of dub- rable performances on the with hard drums and a deep festival circuit. The new tour leaving the group in 1968 Riley bass line – and will appeal to the Colombian plate specials all taken from got into producing and turned cumbia. the original master tapes. starts on November 2nd in Ber- fans of reggae, and lin, Germany, and finishes on out some of the massive hits on probably also drum & bass. his Techniques label. Among The album contains six vocal The Japanese company have November 26th at the One Love Festival in Poland. two of his biggest successful Apart from being released as tracks and five instrumentals. just released four 7” heavy------productions were Double Bar- The vocals are handed by Ecua- weight vinyl records that in- a 12” the four songs are also Chuck Fender hasn’t toured Eu- Winston Riley rel done by , the available as digital download doran native L.O.ese, the soul- clude some rare dubplate spe- Stalag Riddim which featured ful Jamaican singer Kat CHR cials originally recorded for rope for some time. Now you Shot at reggaesoundnetwork.com. have the opportunity to catch the song Arlene done by Gener- and rub a dub deejay Daddy Jammy’s Super Power sound------al Echo, Ring the Alarm done by Marshall. system by artists such as Pad him around Europe. The tour started on October 29th in Ven- , and Bam Bam done Anthony, , Anthony by Sister Nancy. He also scored Check the aching version of The Malvo, Johnny Osbourne and ice, Italy, and will round off Vi- enna, Austria. big with Boops Riddim done by Godfather theme song Speak Thiller U, who recorded their Supercat. Both the Stalag Rid- Softly Love with its haunting songs at King Jammys Record------dim and Boops spawned sev- melodica to get the feel of the ing Studio, plus unreleased The Journey eral hits off those two riddim album. dubplate recordings by Junior by Omar Perry leading to Winston being one of Reid and US soul group the the most sought after produc- Chilites. These dubplates were ------ers in the 80’s. In 2008 Riley then played against the likes Lee Perry’s son Omar Perry Veteran music producer Win- did a massive refurbishing of of Black Scorpio, , recently dropped the heav- ston Riley was shot in the head his record shop/studio which Downbeat, African Symbol and yweight single Love inna on November 1, 2011 at his is also now a museum and is ------other soundsystems who tried Me Heart, a relick of his fa- home in Kingston. According located on Orange Street in the The Cool and to test Jammys Super Power, ther’s production Words of to police reports the producer heart of Downtown Kingston. Deadly Riddim at various sound clashes and My Mouth by The Gatherers. received a shot to the head His son, Kurt Riley, known as go some way to show why the and arm. He is currently in a the Party Animal is a success------Prince became a King. Now he drops his third album, Kingston hospital recuperating ful on the Jamaican Finally, after several billions of For more information and following the strong ‘Can’t Stop years, the leading Reggae pro- from the injuries. Over the past party scene. sound bites visit ReggaeRe- Us Now’, released in 2009. few months Winston Riley has ducer in the world, Kemar ‘Fla------cord.com been the subject of a several ------va’ McGregor has delivered his More King Jam------‘The Journey’ is released attacks as he was stabbed and A new heavy- latest composition and while, through French label Talowa shot as recently as Septem- weight 12” truly, nothing could be worth my Specials Chuck Fender Productions and is produced ber 2011. In September 2009, that kind of a wait, the aptly ti- From Dub Store and Etana in by Bonfire PR. It contains his studio Techniques Records from Curtis tled Cool & Deadly Riddim once ------Europe duets with veterans such at 99 Orange street was fire Lynch again reaffirms McGregor’s as Earl 16 and . bombed. grand stature in the music - It is absolutely excellent. The ------Rock-A-Shacka has reissued tled duo Roy and Millie, where smooth and melodious set two 7 inch singles on the little they had minor local hits with finds the producer going in The iPhone known Sonia Pottinger owned We’ll Meet and I Go. The cut a very familiar direction as it Connection by Bronco label, on which Boris here though is the solo outing subsequently gives birth to Lone Ranger was credited as the lead artist ‘Endless Memory’, which has modern Lover’s Rock winners and producer for the first time. appeared on a number of com- from a variety of interesting ------pilations, but never the less sources. Jamaican deejay Lone Ranger ’s musical career the is still a beautifully haunt- pays, together with French pro- started on the tourist circuit ing Rock Steady number with a ducer Grant Phabao, tribute to during the 1960s where he was delicate keyboard motif buried the late Steve Jobs – co-found- a member of Carlos Malcolm & in the perfectly executed horn- er, Chairman and CEO of Apple the Afro Caribs and ’s less backing rhythm. The flip of and one of the masterminds Dragonaires. this single is Boris’s minor key behind the iPod and the iTunes masterpiece I’m Alone from store – on the brand new The Towards the end of that dec- 1969 which again exemplifies iPhone Connection. ade he started to put out self- his sweet, harmonious vocal produced material and also style. The iPhone Connection reus- worked extensively as a ses- es some of the lyrics to Lone sion musician/member of The photographers and the graphic Derajah and followed Inna de Ranger’s Walkman Connection, Upsetters, , designer, who put the whole Yard All-Stars on tour. put out in 1984. Both songs The Now Generation and The thing together, offered their tribute applications that has Crystallites. photo-material and time for Now he is about to release his Big Jamaican names such as made a change in the way of free. Also as before, it is print- debut album ‘Paris is Burning’ , how we consume music. The first single features a cov- ed on high-quality DIN A3 pa- together with French old school [alongside Jovi Rockwell], the er of Groovy Kind Of Love, a per with 100% of all revenues the Don- incomparable Sanchez and It is available on iTunes, and song first released by Diane made being ploughed back key Jaw Bone. The album col- even Ce’Cile feature on the note that it’s not a remix or & Annita in 1965, but is prob- into helping run and maintain lects 13 tracks with a guest ap- riddim which also includes a a commercial. This is a great ably better known by UK pop the Education Center in Cas- pearance by foundation deejay roster of full on legendary vo- piece of uplifting reggae music. group The Mindbenders, who sava Piece, Kingston. , and was recorded in calists from out of the UK. Pe- recorded their cover later in the band’s studio in Paris using ter Hunnigale, Janet Kay, Car- that same year and peaked at To grab yourself a stunning cal- vintage equipment. roll Thompson and #2 on the UK charts. Boris’s ------endar (only 1000 copies) and to headline a group which also version is very melodic and The 2012 HELP find out other ways of helping ‘Paris is Burning’ hits the includes the delightfully Jazzy features backing by Hux Brown support this excellent charity streets through Chapter Two Adele Harley. Sadiki and Kash- and Keith Starling, among oth- Jamaica! Char- visit www.helpjamaica.org. Records on 28 November. ief & Nikesha Lindo round out ers. On the flip of this is Bob- ity Calendar ------of the very impressive lineup of by Socks, which refers to the ------Paris is Burn- stellar names on the riddim. short socks worn by young The charity HELP Jamaica! have ing by Derajah girls and uses this as a theme just released their new wall Surely you’ve waited entirely to tell a story of the transition calendar for 2012. Over the ------too damn long for a new riddim of a young girl to womanhood. last couple of years this calen- When the now folded French la- from the genre’s finest, but the dar has proved to be extreme- bel Makasound did their acous- wait is over. The Cool & Deadly ------The second single actually fea- ly popular and sold out very tic Inna de Yard project some Riddim from Kemar McGregor Bronco Reissues tures Roy Panton on the A-side, quickly, which when you look years back a talented singjay is currently available on etail- a singer who started out in the at the quality of the photos is named Jah Youth was discov- ers worldwide as well as on From Rock-A- early 60s recording for Coxsone easy to see why. ered. He sang the deep Who FlavaMcGregor.com. Shacka Dodd at Studio One with Millie Yeah Yah with great esteem. Small, as the imaginatively ti- As with the previous two all the ------Later he changed his name to ------land’s most prominent produc- ing Ras Mac Bean, Mark Won- 6 December. ers. der, Carl Meeks and Anthony Forward Ever Que, with whom the label has Burn dem Bridge is the first by Mungos Hi- Now he has teamed up with also planned an album due in single of the EP and is pro- Fi UK-producer Dub Caravan for the first quarter of 2012. duced by Stephen “” an album titled ‘Happy and McGregor. Other producers in------Free’, where Nambo Robinson Included are also four mash- clude Garry G and Dev Kutta. not only honks his horn, but ups, where the riddim provides also takes the microphone and the basis for Tarrus Riley & ‘Straight From the Heart’ also sings on four tracks. Konshens’ Good Girl Gone Bad, offers a few surprises and the D12 & Eminem’s 40 Oz, Huey’s listener will be introduced to ‘Happy and Free’ also holds Pop Lock and Drop It and David a different and more mature I- four dubs/instrumentals as Banner’s Speaker. Octane. well as two bonus tracks. ------“I’ve been introduced to differ- Look out for ‘Happy and Free’ I-Octane ent sounds and different pro- on 12” vinyl and digital down- Upcoming EP ducers so for me it’s all about load on 1 December. growth. I have also matured and Debut Al- as a person so you will be able German singer Sebastian bum to see and feel some of those Sturm made his album debut in ------things in some of the songs,” 2006 with the roots reggae and Jamaican singer I-Octane – en- he says in the press material. effort ‘This Change listed by Billboard Magazine as is Nice’. ‘One Moment in Peace’ one of their 15 Artists Impact- followed in 2008, and on Oc------ing the Indie Scene – has had where he sings and chats about tober 14th Sebastian Sturm is a steady buzz around him for A Free Gift back with his third album ‘Get It’s a refashioning of Grace coming out of a relationship. the last year or so. His break- From Lloyd Jones’ 1980 song into a duet Other noteworthy cuts include Up & Going’, a set recorded to- through came in 2007 with gether with his new band Ex- Brown with Lloyd featuring the origi- veteran Maxi Priest’s Dance Stab Vampire that became the nal rhythm by Sly ‘N’ Robbie. With Me Baby and singer and ile Airline and producer Philip number one song in Jamaica ------November is the traditional deejay duo Color T & Leroy Sim- Breidenbach. Kiddus I – one and received the award for Vid------time when reggae singer Lloyd monds’ Righteous Love. of Sebastian Sturm’s personal eo of the Year at the Excellence Brown drops his annual album The Free 70’s heroes – makes a guest in Music Awards (EME). appearance on the album, an releases. Riddim The Free riddim includes twelve cuts and hits the streets as dig- album that is said to “remain He has continued with a steady ------This year, however, due to ital download on 22 November. faithful to the Sturm sound stream of hits songs, such as Tippa Irie’s Lockdown Produc- the special milestone of his while incorporating new influ- Speaker Riddim Lose A Friend and Puff It. He tions follows up on last year’s 15th album ‘30’, celebrating ences and musical elements.” is also represented on the hit UK Flu riddim with another ------three decades in the business, French label 149 Records fol- song compilation ‘ Rag- smooth lovers rock styled rid------Lloyd’s fans will have to wait lows up on their previous ex- ga Ragga 2011’ with Nuh Love dim. Nambo Robin- until February for the project to cellent – Datta and Inna Dem and Nuh Ramp Wid be completed. son Meets Dub Brighter Day – with the catchy Wi. The Free riddim is a fresh origi- Speaker riddim, set for digital nal recorded with live instru- Caravan But in the meantime, Lloyd’s release on 20 November. Now I-Octane is set to release mentation and with a host of ------production company Riddim- both an EP and a full-length al- both known and lesser known Jamaican trombone player works and JMG Inc. are giving This crisp one drop riddim is bum. The EP – ‘Straight From singers and deejays. Nambo Robinson has played away a free download of the presently voiced by no less the Heart’ – includes six tunes on countless reggae songs and track Private Life (Remix) taken than 17 different artists, includ- and is scheduled for release on Tippa Irie himself takes micro- worked with several of the is- from the new record. phone duties on the title track, ------from 16 December. A vinyl re- dator riddim. Despite the popu- There are only 500 copies in to- beautiful Book of Rules. Kemar Flava lease is also announced. larity of both Nora and the rid- tal so visit the Trojan Store now The same evening Dubtonic ------dim Johnson held back on its to pre-order before the Novem- Kru received Simba Award from Marvin Gaye’s McGregor and release allowing to ber 28th release. CPR (Coalition to Preserve Reg- Sinead O Con- jump in record and release his ------gae), a non-profit organization Inner City nor own version over a revamped based in New York with mem- Blues to Get Liquidator which went on to Dubtonic Kru bers and affiliates around the a Reggae Re------sell strongly both in Jamaica Honored by US globe with a mission to pre- Kemar “Flava” McGregor has and the UK. Due to Johnson’s Representative serve the music. working produced Grammy Award-win- his original cut was now a Catch up with Dubtonic Kru ------ning vocalist Sinead O’Connor’s non-starter and plans for its is- and Award- at their 4th annual Bands In- Released on 22nd November is latest tune How About I Be Me?, sue were quickly dropped leav- ed the Simba corporated concert to be held a 7” vinyl EP, the first in a se- a smooth reggae tune that has ing the track to be lost, hidden Award in Kingston, Jamaica, on their ries of reggae covers of soul climbed to number four on the within an unmarked tape box studio grounds on 26 Novem- classics from the Zion Gate U.S. iTunes chart and set to be for almost 40 years. ------ber. The show features five of Music label, which will feature included on McGregor’s up- Jamaica’s top show bands. various singers backed by the coming compilation Club Dance The flip side of the release sees ------Zion Gate Players. riddim, scheduled for digital another unissued cut from a Barry release later this year. similar period by a band who The first of these releases will also worked for Johnson and Llewellyn of ------see British based singer Chris- Sinead O’Connor is a longtime almost every other producer tine Miller give her rendition of reggae enthusiast and plans Rare Harry of note for that matter…the Has Passed Marvin Gaye’s Inner City Blues, to collaborate with Kemar J Recordings . This Kingston- which will be backed by 2 in- McGregor to produce addition- based group, who had been Away Make 7 Vinyl strumentals and a version. al reggae tracks in 2012. active on the local music scene Jamaican band Dubtonic Kru ------Debut since the late sixties, featured have for the second time in a Barry Llewellyn – one third Christine has a fine, strong The Bellyfull ------an array of local talent and year been awarded for their of the original line-up of the voice and has previously fea- The latest in the long line of Tro- soon became one of Jamaica’s excellence and contribution to Jamaican and reg- tured on backing vocals for Riddim jan heavyweight, limited edi- most in-demand outfits the music industry. gae vocal trio The Heptones – Tony Roots’ Gift of Life while ------tion, 7” vinyl’s to be released has passed away, according to more recently she did a duet After the success in 2010 with will feature two cuts originally The cut that is featured is the On the 7th staging of the annu- Irie-FM. The trio also included with King Kong on the King the relick of Peter Broggs’ gan- recorded for Harry Johnson. instrumental, Natty In Hong al Reggae Culture Salute Show- front man and bass player Shiloh Records release Rasta ja anthem International Farm- Kong which was among a num- case they, along with deejay Leroy Sibbles along with Earl Live On. The instrumental cuts er, French label Furybass – run The first of these is Nora Dean, ber of sides intended for an al- veteran Big Youth, received a Morgan. see Arnaud Fradin (guitar) and by producer Red Cat – versions the one time lead singer of bum showcasing the group’s Congressional Proclamation Franck Bougier (trombone) another 70’s tune. the Ebony Sisters. By 1973 talents, but once more saw the from the U.S. House of Repre- Barry Llewellyn and Leroy Sib- from well known French blues Nora was regarded as one of producer dither over its release sentatives. bles have toured as The Hep- band Malted Milk take the lead. This time it’s The Gladiators’ Jamaica¹s best-loved female so it to became lost in the mists tones during the last couple of This well regarded band has tune Bellyfull that gets the Red performers and therefore had of time. “I salute Dubtonic Kru for their years. But the group was at its in the past backed headliners Cat treatment. many of Kingston’s leading service and dedication to our peak in the late 60’s and early such as Big Joe Turner as well producers, principally Bunny Both of these reggae rarities community and highlight that 70’s scoring hits such as Fattie as participated in the finals Three artists are riding the rid- Lee and Harry Johnson, vying recently saw issue on the ‘Tro- their positive and legendary Fattie and Pretty Looks isn’t of the Memphis International dim. Million Stylez from Swe- for her services. jan Story Box Set’, but are fi- contributions are what make All. Blues Challenge in 2007. den, Virtus from Italy and Wa- nally making their debuts as our nation great and I bestow terhouse legend . It was Johnson who struck first nature intended on vinyl, pre- upon you the highest honor as Even though Leroy Sibbles was The next release looks to be a getting Nora to record one of sented on the revived a member of the 112th session responsible for most of the Prince Jamo version of Aaron The Bellyfull riddim is available her own compositions, Mama, imprint and housed in a hand- of congress,” says Congress lead vocals, Barry Llewellyn Neville’s Hercules, a song that on iTunes, Amazon and others sung over the renowned Liqui- numbered sleeve. Woman Yvette Clarke in a press sang lead and co-wrote the has been sampled by many in release. the field such as Young Besides the aforementioned MC (I Come Off), Biz Markie (A tracks, the album also features Thing Named Kim) and 2 Live a slew of potentially big tunes Crew (In The Dust), and due to such as Nuh Fraid A Dem, the its rolling nature should make title track, Walk and others. Ti- a very good reggae version. As ger Records is really near the before this will be backed up by top of things when it comes to instrumentals. Plans are also production and actual musi- afoot for an album with all this cianship, so you can well ex- singers though no concrete de- pect the music throughout to tails are available at this time. be world class.

The idea of reggae versions of Bazil is still very much a mys- soul songs may not be a new tery to Reggae fans these days one but judging by this first of- - Get to know him better by fering and a promising sound- picking up his debut album, ing second release this has all ‘Stand Up Strong’ - In stores the makings of a very good and now. interesting project. ------If you would like a copy of this The Land Of and the future releases they Dub should be available in most ------reggae shops as they are be- Out now and available as a free ing distributed by Oneness Re- download, is an album titled Apart from live performances cords, Patate Records, Pusher ------‘Land Of Dub’ from English mu- they have been working behind ------Distribution, Mike Williams sician Edward Reeve, aka Ash- Premonitions riddim is avail- the scenes under the name No- Bazil’s Stand and David Dubwise. ley. Premonitions able on CD, digital download tice Productions, scoring a hit Up Strong Riddim and three 7”s. ------song last year with Holiday by ------Ashley, who has been produc- Ding Dong and Chevaughn, ------Heart and Soul ‘Stand Up Strong’ is the de- ing his own music since the age featured on VP compilation Friendly Fire Music drops a fol- but album from the impres- of thirteen has also studied the Riddim by Fur- ‘Reggae Gold 2010’. low-up to last year’s Badness ther Notice sive French born globe-trotting subject at college and univer- riddim. The new one drop rid- Bazil who has linked up with sity, where he performed with Heart and Soul riddim is Notice dim is called Premonitions and ------the venerable Sherkhan and several jazz and rock bands. Productions latest effort. It’s a is just as last time executed Jamaican six piece band Fur- Records to build quite He has now put his efforts into smooth one drop riddim with by Birmingham’s Friendly Fire ther Notice – previously known an interest in his most unique roots dub reggae to produce cuts from some soulful emo- Band, with a little help from as Smooth Expression – start- abilities. The album follows this bass heavy work that is tional singers – Jah Cure, Chris UB40’s saxophonist Brian Trav- ed their musical journey at several very strong singles, in- reminiscent of many 70s and Martin, D Major and Hezron be- ers. Edna Manley College and have cluding the recently released early 80s Jamaican . played together for eight years. ing particularly tasty. Dem Fallin’, Don’t You Stop, The album has a distinct vibe, Several of the contributors on Celebrate and Critical Situation which is helped by the use of a Heart and Soul is available as the Badness riddims appear During these years they have , which have shown Bazil to be wide range of instrumentation digital download at the usual on this riddim as well – Murray performed live with major acts a very colourful addition to the which is all played by Ashley, such as , Ste- e-tailers. Man, Peter Spence and Collie Reggae community and on the including the sitar, and the use Weed to name a few. The rid- phen Marley, Nas, Mavado and full album he seems poised to of homemade electronic gadg- . dim showcases a wide range of establish his as an even further ets and effects. vocal styles ranging from roots reaching type of talent. to lovers to dancehall. LEROY SIBBLES “ ing at the moment. Instead of one third of the original line-up meeting in the press tent out- of The Heptones. But it’s appar- was at Studio side we are asked to interview ent that Leroy is the front man One before me him in a container where Upp- and spokesperson. Barry sits and he was my sala Reggae Festival’s founder quietly close to the door during and promoter Yared Tekeste the entire session. inspiration” usually has his office. ------At an early stage Leroy makes Leroy Sibbles reminisc- This is the second time The it clear that he has probably al- Heptones perform at the festi- ready been asked all the ques- es and reveals favorite val. The first time was in 2009 tions that me and my reporter contemporary artist on the tent stage. This time colleague would like to ask. ------they are headlining the first He seems tired of getting the night of the festival. Leroy Sibbles is a bonafide same questions on legendary legend in the reggae industry foundation producer Clement “The show was good,” states with almost 50 years in the “Coxsone” Dodd over and over Leroy Sibbles and fires off one business and countless im- again.. of his many big smiles during “Studio One is important to Jackie Mittoo was in charge at in the late 60’s playing jazz mortal bass lines and riddims ------the interview session. He con- me. I was just a kid in the ghet- the Studio One recording facil- as the Jackie Mittoo Trio doing with his name on them. Unit- tinues: Studio One important to at the time,” says Leroy and ity. club engagements. ed Reggae met him after a continues explaining how the performance by The Heptones ------“When I leave Jamaica I know I But it turns out he isn’t as re- recording process could look “Jackie Mittoo was at Studio Leroy soon picked up the at Uppsala Reggae Festival. will have a goodtime. I’d do it luctant as imagined. like: One before me and he was my acoustic guitar as well. inspiration,” says Leroy and It’s a few minutes past 1 o’clock for free, but I can’t afford it,” he “Coxsone was the one with adds: But he was not just a musician in the morning and I’m sitting laughs. The Heptones – originally a control and he put it out there. and a singer. His role at Studio in the chilly and damp press vocal trio that encompassed Put it on the market. We had no “We were the ones that broke One expanded and he started tent waiting to interview Leroy It’s obvious that Leroy enjoys Leroy, Barry and Earl Morgan saying and when we worked he Jackie Mittoo. We did Fattie Fat- to help out with auditions on Sibbles, front man and lead Europe, a place much different – started their journey in 1965. wasn’t there. He would come tie and he became really popu- Sundays as well as being an singer in The Heptones. from his home island of Jamai- Their early work was for Cox- ca. sone Dodd with smash hits in at night and review what we lar with an instrumental [Ram important part of the in-house had done.” Jam] that busted the place up.” band at Studio One, variously The clock keeps ticking and such as Fattie Fattie, Pretty known as The Soul Brothers, suddenly me, two photogra- “People go all the way in Eu- Looks isn’t All and I got the ------The Soul Vendors, Brentford phers and another reporter are rope,” he explains. Handle. Later in the 60’s and Jackie Mittoo an inspi- Key role Road All Stars or Sound Dimen- asked to relocate to a warmer in the 70’s they went on and ration sion. setting. He’s in a great mood. Laugh- started recording for other ma------ing and joking around with the jor Jamaican producers, includ------Jackie Mitto was also the one who taught Leroy to play the “My first recording was a Ken It turns out an early August people listening in on the inter- ing Harry J, Lee Perry and Joe According to Leroy, as well as bass when he arrived at Stu- Boothe song and my second night in Sweden is too cold for view. Gibbs. several other sources, the late dio One as a singer. The pair was Baby Why with What Kind Leroy Sibbles and he is freez- keyboard player and arranger One of them is Barry Llewellyn, teamed up with Wayne Anton of World on the flipside [TheCa production and the tempo. I play it for my bass man. It’s the best album in the world,” concludes Leroy and leaves the FRENCHIE room hugging everybody on his way out. “Unfortunately we’re just in a Interview by Erik Magni Photos by Bartek Muracki receding busi- lyrics and the way she moves. ness” She’s a total rasta,” he ex- plains and remembers: “Frenchie” got into Jamai- can music as a Parisian teen “Back then it was a stigma through the Two Tone move- around rasta. You could not en- ment. He and his brother soon ter the premises as a rasta. You cottoned onto the provenance couldn’t have a job if you were of the best tunes they were has created his own UK roots la- nity. After Jamaica, England is bles]. Jackie gave them to me,” reaction is instant. a rasta,” he states, and adds: hearing and started collect- bel Calabash and released four the second capital of reggae, remembers Leroy. ing the vintage and rock- new Maximum Sound rhythms, historically. The mass emigra- “I’m not going anywhere, I’ll “People today are not rasta. steady that inspired Madness, Skateland Killer (based on Ee- tion to America came way after He is also responsible for cancel the tour,” he smiles. It’s just dreadlocks. Few peo- the Specials and co. Regular kamouse’s Star Daily News or and if you listen to most styles several immortal riddims that ple have that faith.” ferry trips over to London to Gleaner) Ghetto State (Letter of reggae that were prominent have been versioned countless He continues describing what Dub Vendor and Peckings in From Zion), Sound Extermina- in America, even in the 80s, times – ’ rasta makes such an in- But it’s not just reggae for the late 80s led to a radio show ta and the Fairground rhythm. they’re very influenced by Ja- anthem and teresting artist. Leroy. His all-time favorite al- and as the then Angus Taylor chatted to the maica, whereas over here they Full Up (or Pass the Kouchie) bum is in a different vein. small yet determined Paris reg- man who is arguably Europe’s really had their own taste, their are two of the most recognized “Her culture, the sound, the gae scene got off the ground. greatest reggae producer for own music like Lovers Rock. examples. lyrics and the way she moves. “Anita Baker’s Rapture. There’s But Frenchie was more in- far longer than intended sev- In France, Germany and plac- She’s a total rasta,” he ex------nothing bad about that album. trigued by the bustling culture eral times over the last year, es like that it’s a fashion. It’s plains and remembers: Queen Ifrica and Anita I can play every track. Not skip in London and in 1990, aged hence it taking so long for this something that the kids picked one. The arrangements, the 19, got a job as an engineer at piece to be edited down into up, a bit like they picked up hip Baker two favorites “Back then it was a stigma production and the tempo. I Fashion Records via Dub Ven- readable - if still rather lengthy! hop in France. For me it was around rasta. You could not en------play it for my bass man. It’s dor’s John McGillivray. Under - form... more interesting to come over ter the premises as a rasta. You Even though Leroy and The the best album in the world,” the guidance of Chris Lane and here to work in that industry couldn’t have a job if you were Heptones haven’t recorded concludes Leroy and leaves the Gussie P he learned his craft in When you started getting into because there was hardly any- much in recent years, he is up a rasta,” he states, and adds: room hugging everybody on the studio before, in late ‘92, the music you had to come thing going on in France when I to date with new music coming his way out. using the £300 he had in his grew up. “People today are not rasta. over to the UK to see the from Jamaica. And his favorite pocket to get UK rhythm kings It’s just dreadlocks. Few peo------artist at the moment is a dread- Interview by Erik Magni Mafia & Fluxy to lay a couple of best that reggae had to offer. But at the same time most Eu- locked female singjay – Queen ple have that faith.” Photos by Marc Ismail rhythms he gave to Dub Vendor Nowadays in France there’s a ropean people didn’t grow up Ifrica. to press. Thus his now world But it’s not just reggae for huge scene and in the UK peo- with reggae in the house so famous label Maximum Sound Leroy. His all-time favorite al- ple are wondering what hap- “I call her Queen Africa. She’s was born, from which he has they have the zeal of a con- bum is in a different vein. pened. What’s your take on no freak. She’s a real rasta”, he put out roots and dancehall vert. laughs. and singles featuring that? “Anita Baker’s Rapture. There’s everyone from to In Europe it’s fresher in their nothing bad about that album. When it’s revealed to Leroy that Bounty Killer, from Luciano to The big difference with France ears because it hasn’t really I can play every track. Not skip Queen Ifrica will perform at the his friend Anthony B. Lately he and the UK is that here you been there very prominently in festival two days later, Leroy’s one. The arrangements, the have a huge Jamaican commu- their face, only for maybe the it as it is and it’s a banging year? last 15 years. In France I would sound straight in your ears, say that dancehall music really quite aggressive. So it’s very To be frank I was surprised exploded in the mid 90s. Ger- more than anything because many’s even a bit later than hardcore but because it’s so I voiced the album in literally that. At that time reggae over unpolished, obviously that three or four nights or some- here was slowly but surely fiz- message can be quite ag- thing like that, so it was a bit zling out. And the other thing gressive to certain people, rushed. I had to use older is the question of generation. and not very politically cor- tracks and remixed them to Most Afro-Caribbean kids from finish the album because he the third generation Jamaicans, rect. had to go to Africa to finish his reggae for them is the music of tour. To me it could have been their parents. It’s not their own Some of the lyrics went be- much better than it was but send-off this year. Is that music, they’re into grime, hip yond being politically incor- we did the best with what we Eek-a-mouse’s voice from the hop, UKG, R&B and that kind of rect though... could. I went to Jamaica liter- thing. Music here has evolved ally for three weeks and when original cut on your rhythm? into other forms. I think the media made scape- I landed he said to me “Ah, I I speeded up the record on that in France for somebody hall? Is it a price you have to goats out of the artists but they forgot I’ve got a tour and I have my turntable and sampled it, The UK has plenty of home- who likes modern Jamaican pay for hearing innovative should have made a statement to leave on Saturday” and I’d and looped it. I cleared it with music? about the country and the cul- landed the Monday, so we had grown dance music... music, you always used to Greensleeves and stuff. I’d ture. You’re not going to go to to do everything really quickly. see the same artists in the had the idea for it for a while, Saudi Arabia and demonstrate It’s a good thing he had some 80s. And it was the same Any lyrics that you hear from then we beefed up the drums The number of genres of mu- because they’ll have exactly songs written already that I’d and played back the rhythm sic that have come from this sort of music that kept get- Jamaican artists, they reflect the same views, if not more sent him the rhythms for, and round the loop and that’s how country is incredible. It was ting pumped by the media the Jamaican culture. So extreme. I would say if you re- Duane Stephenson helped us it came.. the rhythm was laid anything derogatory, any- ally think about it, it’s really to on a couple of tracks, he wrote one of the things that always because it’s a non-contro- about a year before I voiced An- do with each country. There’s a a couple of songs. The idea to attracted me about coming versial, safe sort of reggae, thing bigoted, it’s literally thony on it. world of countries where they do the United States of Africa and you can play it on certain how Jamaica is. The country to live here. In France we’ve might have exactly the same song, I came with the title and I played it to Captain Sinbad never really invented any stations and feel good about with the most churches per views on a load of things like the concept and I said write and he said “Oh, you should genre of modern music, no yourself. It’s changed now, capita, more than any other Jamaica, but they don’t get half something like that and he do a juggling on it” because it country in the world. Obvi- of the crap that Jamaica gets. came up with a really wicked disrespect to France. The US there’s loads of dancehall was a Junjo thing and he was The sadness of that is that no- song. He played it for me and has with hip hop, rock ‘n’ shows and dancehall show- ously the music is a straight linked with Junjo for years. So body’s really addressed the then Luci sung it, and Luci then cases and stuff happening reflection of that. Most of I sent it to and to Tar- roll and jazz and stuff, but real issue. They haven’t tried to wrote the majority of the songs rus Riley, and Tarrus came back most countries in Europe, as now in Europe. There’s a big the artists who have been address the real political thing literally within a week, so he’s with this wicked tune. So I put far as I know, they’ve never network of shows and the involved in controversy like and tried to change it, they just obviously very very talented the horns on it and I mixed it in that, they’re not artists with went after artists. The artists like that…to work with Luciano really invented any genres artists have a huge platform a different place than the way aren’t going to change shit. is like a dream , he is just a fan- that have been established now to promote themselves. PhDs or who’ve been to uni- Shane Brown mixed the origi- They’ll stop doing those songs tastic human being. versity. They’ve learned the nal Anthony B one, so that’s as modern popular music, but you put pressure on the why it sounds a bit different. apart maybe from Germany You’ve mentioned non-con- rough way through some governments or you say that Let’s talk about another The guy who mixes most of my who have pioneered a lot of troversial forms of the music. rough streets. That’s sort of the system or the law is wrong thing that’s still reverberat- songs is Fatta Marshall. Shane the charm and the negative then it makes more sense. the . They’ve What’s your take on some of ing now, your Skateland Killer is fantastic with the one drop followed what’s been hap- the lyrical content that has of the music. It’s very raw, rhythm. That rhythm turned thing, but Fatta always has that Were you surprised by the pening in Anglo-Saxon coun- upset people over the last 15 straight to the point, comes up on your last album with hip hop sound. Sinbad’s tune success of your Luciano album tries. My thing was always years in reggae and dance- from the ghetto life , they tell Anthony B but it got the big turned out to be one of the big- United States of Africa last gest as well on the rhythm.. You started out at Fashion very good on the mail order; sold, unfortunately we’re just -ket, for that one drop market, which came out of Dub Ven- they’re still there and I hope in a receding business. It’s re- financially it’s just completely dor. How did you feel about they’ll be there for a while still . ally downloading that’s the pointless, you throw your mon- medium for dancehall, it’s ey away. I still had to pay a few the shop closing its doors in pointless putting any dance- artists to voice and stuff on the September? hall on vinyl, you won’t sell rhythm but the return is just none, so you have to put out minimal. It’s very sad. There’s no other a legal download. The biggest shop in the world who sold problem is that as soon as you Tell me a bit about your work more Skateland Killer and my put a dancehall rhythm on a with iTunes as well... latest productions than Dub legal site it gets pirated about Vendor. So as much as things five minutes after it’s up there. Well, I’ve just put my catalogue are bad, they can still sell more That’s the challenge today. on iTunes. I’ve put a compila- records than, I reckon, anybody tion called Maximum Sound in the world when it comes to Give me an example of how 2011. It’s early days still but I reggae. The clients are unbe- had to move with the times and lievable and the knowledge of this has affected your own In the past you’ve been very put my catalogue up there or all the people who work there work. you’re losing sales now and it’s is phenomenal, so for me it’s critical of how the business a very, very important medium obviously a big blow. The prob- has changed. Has anything I put out the Fairground rhythm for a lot of people because ob- lem really, and John will tell improved this year? this year which played quite viously there’s a whole new you this, is that they’ve got the a lot on the pirate radio sta- generation of people for who ability to sell records, but their Definitely. It’s a changing busi- tions and community radio sta- the 45 is completely alien. biggest problem is that they ness that we’re in. Everybody tions and stuff. Quite a popular They don’t buy records at all, can’t get the actual stock to sell has to adapt to what it is today, rhythm, it done quite good in so if your stuff is not on MP3 putting out records because He’s done the Summertime - there’s not enough good re- if you don’t adapt you won’t Africa funnily enough, which they won’t get your music. It’s it’s just not making no money tune by Kartel and he’s got a cords, quality records, for them be able to survive in it. For me is really good. I put it on down- a Catch 22 because then they now”. Even though there’s new song called Beautiful Life to continue to trade and that’s the positive thing is that in the load and some of the tracks might source it somewhere some decent stuff that’s come by Vegas as well which is start- why they closed down. Before last year there have been quite on download only, I mean you which is not maybe legal, so I out, and funnily enough there’s ing to play hard. His dancehall every week or every two weeks a lot of decent tunes. I would type on Google “Fairground” had to go that way even though a lot of good stuff from Europe beats are really good and he’s they would have a new set of say that a lot of Jamaican pro- and you had about seven or since I’ve done that the surge coming out, a lot of good UK, not from Jamaica, which for a tunes coming through and they ducers the year before last, eight pages of “Download for of piracy of my catalogue has French and German labels have producer from Europe to build were selling quickly and the last year they were trying to free the Fairground riddim”. definitely gone up. But you got some good music. a dancehall beat that is so huge next batch would come. The do quite a lot of hip hop beats, What do you do? The Skateland have to chase it, I spent a few down there I tip my hat to him. supply of records that used to trying to do some crossover Killer I put on vinyl, I didn’t put weekends taking down illegal He’s been doing good, which be quite important for the turn- thing that to me sounded re- on download and even if peo- What would you say the best downloading links and stuff as is a sign of the times to show over of the shop wasn’t there ally whack. This year I think a ple uploaded the record and tunes that have come out this much as I can but it’s not easy you that if somebody from out anymore. So the shop didn’t lot of people have actually re- there were a few pages, I was year have been, apart from obviously, it’s pretty hard. You of Jamaica is starting to build make any sense and the clien- alised and addressed that and able to take links down from can see the second half of this your own? Dancehall beats (a non reggae tele obviously has been shrink- a lot of artists are starting to quite a few pirate sites, but year; there hasn’t been as much ) which can ing as there hasn’t been a new complain on various social net- I got pirated much less with rhythms and tunes released as The funniest thing is that for the mash up Jamaica and are as generation of people buying works saying that dancehall is those releases than with the there was maybe earlier on in first time, I reckon, ever in reg- good as what’s being made in tunes. The clientele has aged too hip hop, let’s go back to the Fairground. The Fairground the year and last year because gae the number one dancehall Jamaica, then things are defi- with the shop, if you see what real Jamaican sound, and actu- has been absolutely pillaged. people now are starting to feel rhythm and the number one nitely changing in certain ways I mean? And people after a cer- ally there’ve been quite good And every time you find you do the full brunt, the economical producer is getting there is a that are different… tain age they stop buying tunes records coming out of Jamaica a rhythm like that there going brunt of the downloading stuff. really nice guy called Adde and and they have families and they this year. The problem now be- to appear more, because the I see a lot of producers say- he’s from Sweden and nobody have other preoccupations, so ing that the way that they’re Fairground I would say is more So final question, what’s the ing to me “Well, it’s pointless really don’t know about him. that as well. But they’re still marketed and the way they’re a rhythm for the Jamaican mar- way forward? What’s the fu- you can just go on your PC and obviously it’s hard to tell them “You have to pay for this”. Midnite Up to now no-one been re- ally telling them any different. “It’s always about word and sound. These things ------come together in music” Interview by Angus Taylor ------Message is key to Vaughn Benjamin ------Midnite has been instrumental in shaping a new genre within reggae music – Virgin Islands reggae (VI-reggae). They have a strong following particularly within the U.S. and have since their 97’debut album Unpol- ished put out more than 40 albums. United Reggae got a chat with front man and lead singer Vaughn Benjamin about -ture for the music and how ness and the sales of records messages, his inspirations and Midnite’s latest album does it get out of this? and everything I would like to be optimistic because I love it Kings Bell, their fifth in 2011. and I’d like to do this for another I don’t know. For artist or if you Midnite hails from the U.S. Vir- manage an artist, if you man- ten years but the reality is that we’re on a completely crum- gin Islands, a small group of age a band or if you deejay islands located between the you’ve still got a future in the bling business and the sales of records are definitely diminish- Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic music because you can play Ocean, neighboring countries out, you get great promotion ing and the downloads are not picking up enough, the legal such as Puerto Rico and Domin- from all that. So if you go that ican Republic. The islands have way... I was thinking of build- downloads to equate the loss of physical and that’s the big- a population of around 100,000 ing a sound and thinking of residents and consist of main playing out maybe next year or gest problem. If there was re- ally somebody policing the in- islands St. Croix, St. John and the next two years, maybe take St. Thomas. an artist on the road and do all ternet better, if there was much less file sharing and piracy, and that, but it’s a lot of hard work Reggae has been present in and really and truthfully what the message would be that mu- sic is not free and the kids, you the VI since the 70’s, but it was I really enjoy the most is mak- not until the late 90’s that art- ing records. That’s my passion have to pay for it, then people would still be in business, still ists from the islands started since... I wanted to be King Jam- to get recognition from other Vaughn and Ron Benjamin. lead. Other ingredients in the mys when I was 15 years old, making music. I think that’s the biggest challenge now - a lot parts of the world. And in the VI-reggae formula are low tem- that was what I really liked. So front line of this musical revolu- Their take on reggae is rooted po, restrained arrangements it’s another business, another of kids think that music is ba- sically a free commodity that tion is Midnite, a group formed in the 70’s with the bass and and minor chords. And con- trade. So as for the music busi- in 1989 with a core of brothers the drum very much taking the scious lyrics. ------studio all the time. They’re was worthwhile doing. As far The producer behind Kings also on tour a lot. I wonder if as reggae music, it has origi- Bell is Andrew “Bassie” Camp- Message is important they ever record on the road. nality.” bell, a Jamaican producer who ------has also worked with VI-reg- “The message solidifies the “We sometimes record on gae artist NiyoRah. Vaughn music,” says Vaughn Ben- tour. The technology allows it explains that he targeted jamin over the phone from today. But I like to be relaxed. speed and patterns, which St.Croix, and explains why My voice needs to recuperate, was important. having a message in music is and it depends on vibration.” important: When I suggest that Kings Bell The recipe for the huge pro- is Midnite’s most accessible “Message is continuity. Pass- duction tempo is to be found album yet, Vaughn doesn’t ing on culture from generation elsewhere I soon realize. agree. to generation. If the parents don’t pass on a skill to their “It’s just love, you know.” “I don’t think it is different children, a culture could go ------from our other albums. Just in missing. It’s about telling your “ has had a big tive mood most of the time. personality and individuality story, telling it to the world.” impact. And the drum and the First album with a Ja- and in speed and patterns,” bass from like Flabba Holt. “I meditate and go inside. I maican producer he says, and adds: Vaughn Benjamin speaks in Sometimes I listen to the bass don’t sing a melody in front of ------a low raspy voice and gives a man alone or the drummer everyone. The music is already Kings Bell is the title of Mid- “As far as being accessible, contemplative expression. I alone,” he says, and also men- there,” he says, and adds: nite’s latest album effort. It’s it’s about word, sound and was actually a bit nervous for tions The Abyssinians, Peter their fifth full-length in 2011 ------power. It’s always about word this interview since I know that Tosh and as ex- “I make everything from and the first with a Jamaican Foundation musicians and sound. These things come he rarely gives interviews, and ternal sources for inspiration. scratch. It’s not just singing a together in music.” producer and with mainly Ja- key ingredient his lyrics are sincere and pro------song. The bottom line is sin- maican veteran musicians, found, often concerning reli- cerity. I do it for myself.” ------He is also no stranger to re- Travels inside such as acclaimed guitar- gion, injustice and the African ------ist Earl “Chinna” Smith and One of the key aspects of the cord with Jamaican musicians Diaspora. ------album for Vaughn is the Ja- again. However it doesn’t Several unreleased al- drummer Leroy “Horsemouth” Apart from Midnite’s original Wallace. maican musicians for whom seem to have occupied his “You see, most pop culture is sound, they are also known bums he seems to have tremendous mind for too long though. consumerism. It’s subjective for their enormous output ------Prior to the album Midnite respect. egos. Life is about occupa- with a total of more than 40 al- With an average of about five dropped the EP single Mongst “Last night was the first time I tion and determination. I don’t bums in 14 years. To manage albums each year, Midnite I&I, for which their first ever “These foundation musicians thought about it, and it would want to smoke screen to the this you need to have creative might just be one of the most music video was shot. are unique in the world and be good for sure. No reason people.” edge and inspiration. productive groups in music the music speaks for itself. not to do it. Good spirit and ------history. And Vaughn reveals “I never really wanted to shoot It’s about straight up skill. vibration. I’d definitely be in- “I don’t fight for inspiration,” It stands on its own,” he be- clined again, sure,” he con- Sources for inspiration that they have more music ly- the music video, but now I al- says Vaughn, and gives an ex- ing around. lowed it to happen. We were lieves, and exemplifies: cludes. ------ample: shooting a legacy. It was an ------Vaughn was raised in a mu- “It’s the patterns in the music “I hope it doesn’t sound like important thing.” Interview by Erik Magni sical family and says that he “The riddim brings inspira- I’m boasting, but we have lots and the fact that it comes from learned a lot in his house tion. If the riddim is militant of albums sitting down, that When I ask Vaughn to describe the original players of instru- growing up. His brother takes and heavy, you have to fight have not been released.” the album his answer is hum- ments. They’re still here to bass duties in Midnite and this battle called life.” ble. meet the new generation.” his father was a guitarist and I ask Vaughn how Midnite find ------vocalist. His external musical Vaughn also explains that he time to record all this music. I “It’s pretty good work. The Speed and patterns inspiration comes from the usually travels inside for inspi- mean, they’re not just in the combination is unique and it usual suspects. ration and that he is in a crea------though we were talking about things that happened decades David Katz ago he can tell you things from the 70s and 80s like it hap- pened yesterday. And then people like Gibby Morrison who on Jimmy Cliff told me that Jimmy introduced him to these amazing books “He is one of the goes according to plan. But I’d like African [Origin of] Civiliza- met and interviewed him more tion - Myth or Reality? [Cheikh heavyweights than once, a number of years Anta Diop], that he had this of roots music” ago. That goes back to the time amazing library that he would when I was working on my sec- bring the musicians there and David Katz is the author of the ond book Solid Foundation - An they would reason and they biography ‘People Funny Boy: Oral History of Reggae. I saw would read books. Also people The Genius Of Lee “Scratch” him at a public event and intro- like Aura Lewis, who went on Perry’ and the interview-based duced myself, and he gave me tour with him in Africa. Chinna account ‘Solid Foundation: An his number. Smith too. Oral History Of Reggae’. Origi- nally from San Francisco, Katz relocated to London in the late So you had to use other sourc- Even without extensive inter- 80s where he was appointed es... views with Jimmy, one thing official biographer to Lee Per- that really comes through ry by the man himself. As well A lot of the other musicians I’ve is how much of his own life interviewed have worked with as a writer, David is a photog- he put into The Harder They rapher, radio disc jockey, and Jimmy, so a lot of them had told chairs the Reggae University Beat. He got in touch when he me about working with Jimmy Come. He is somebody who at Festival was launching the series and just because it was something seems to take experience and in Spain. His third book, on an- wanted to know if I would con- that they were proud of. It feed it back into his own life, other of reggae’s greatest fig- sider writing a book that would wasn’t that I had hunted them his own art. ures, ‘Jimmy Cliff: An Unauthor- fit. The idea behind the series down to say “Hey, what about this track you did with Jimmy?” ised Biography’ was published was short, easily readable bi- Definitely. It’s often been said They were like “Hey, I did this this month as part of the Carib- ographies of major Caribbean that The Harder They Come track with Jimmy Cliff!” or “I bean Lives series. Angus Taylor figures, so he asked if I would there was a loose script or worked on this album”. They met David at a London hostelry consider Jimmy Cliff. So really it there was no script, and it’s were all very proud of the work to discuss the book, its author was his idea! pretty evident in a lot of those they’d done with him and very and its subject. Below is an ex- scenes that Jimmy is basically struck with his input and the Who would you say was the star trip. And Gilberto Gil also cerpt of what was said. The subtitle is “An Unauthor- playing himself. That’s why way he approached things. most helpful source in the told me a lot about this kind of ised Biography.” Was Jimmy he’s so believable. It’s not to When I was working on this meeting of minds of the two of Where did the idea to do a process of writing the book? say obviously that everything approached? Did you have book and when we weren’t get- them, these two very different that Ivan does in the film Jimmy book about Jimmy Cliff come some interview material al- ting any response from Jimmy I musical forces that came to- People like Tony Chin, from did, but he obviously knows from? did hunt down a number of oth- gether for a time, even though ready? Soul Syndicate, gave me a what he’s portraying. That’s er musicians after that, specifi- they weren’t really recording good feeling for what Jimmy why those scenes like when cally to talk about that, people together but they were inter- It actually stemmed from the se- Jimmy was approached, but he was like as a professional mu- he’s in the market and he goes like Squidly Cole. But a lot of acting nonetheless. Gilberto ries editor of Caribbean Lives, just didn’t respond this time sician and also something of to try to steal the mango and the other material is from inter- Gil’s a very perceptive man so James Ferguson. We both write round. When you write a book his personality, that he had nearly gets his hand chopped views that I’ve conducted over he could kind of hone in on for the in-flight magazine of about a music figure, my ex- this kind of strong work ethic off, that’s why they’re so be- the years. what Jimmy was like, and even Caribbean Airlines, Caribbean perience is that very little of it and didn’t get caught up in the lievable. There was an edition of The Harder They Come that in the same way that in a cer- was released as part of the tain sense you could say if you Criterion Collection and it has look at Lee Scratch Perry and this spoken talk-over with Per- his version of is very, ry Henzell and Jimmy talking very different from any other about aspects of the film and being on the planet’s idea of that validates that view-point. what Rastafari is supposed to be. So maybe with Jimmy it’s a Other that things come out little bit similar. of the book are his ingenu- The way the mainstream ity, but also his quite complex paints Jimmy Cliff is that he relationship with spirituality wasn’t a roots reggae artist. and with major religions. But the book mentions two He’s an intensely creative per- of my favourite of his roots son and I think he was clear ear- singles - Let’s Turn The Table, ly on that he did not want to be the preacher’s saying it so it more into traditional Islam and on his own Sun Power imprint pigeon-holed and constrained must be true” or “My teach- then eventually African Islam and Under Pressure. by form - particularly once he er’s saying it” or “My parent” as practised by the Baye Fall started to travel. He travelled or whoever it may be. I think Mourides in Senegal. Even in I’m so glad you said that be- early, he went to the World’s he’s always been that way and that time when he was Nation cause that for me was very Fair in 1964, so he was barely as time’s gone on even more of Islam or between Nation of important to bring out in this out of his teens. I think he’s one questioning and not less. Islam and traditional Islam he’s book, to highlight that be- of those people where there’s still travelling with the Bible, cause he’s done, as you say, always going to be something Jimmy wasn’t as public with he’s still travelling with the he’s done a number of these good coming out of the pen in his involvement in Islam as New Testament as well as the very incredible, very, very deep his hand and when he opens Koran. So he’s never rejected roots tunes that are up there his mouth you’re not going to say or Muham- one or the other. mad Ali were. In the book with the best and lot of peo- get something ordinary. I think ple don’t know them or if they Jimmy has described himself, you suggest his Pentecostal He also went through a phase ever heard them they forgot and one gets the sense when upbringing expresses itself of getting very close to Ras- it or maybe they didn’t even you consider his evolution and through his music. know if was Jimmy Cliff. It’s you meet him as a person, he’s ta. What was his relationship with Rastafarianism? like you say, there’s kind of a obviously a deeply spiritual As you say, he had this Pen- reggae snobbery about Jimmy person but he’s also someone tecostal upbringing but he’d Cliff, that he isn’t really one of who’s deeply questioning. He’s There’s an interview with Jim- already partially rejected it, my where he does say that he the greats because his music’s not the kind of person who but with Jimmy Cliff he doesn’t too diluted, it’s too focussed would suffer fools gladly. In feels entitled to claim Rasta as throw away the baby with the his own and to describe him- that Prince Emmanuel Edwards of advisor, they have a series of on pop but it’s really a totally the film Moving On, he talks of bathwater, he says “Ok, there unfair and incorrect assertion. himself as a young man in the self as part of Rasta. When he had [the Bobo Shanti order]. reasonings. This is at that time are things in this teaching and was a young man there was a So even though he himself was where the Oneness band was He is one of the heavyweights church community listening interpretation of Christianity of roots music even though to what the preacher’s saying Rastaman in his community not Rasta at that time and did led by Earl Chinna Smith. Mu- that I know aren’t right” but that everybody shunned ex- not identify himself as Rasta, tabaruka is involved and Jimmy he has also done records that and there’s some truth in there that doesn’t mean that he’s were pop. The two are not mu- but there’s a lot of things that cept his father would talk to he was already drawing from helps to launch Muta’s career going to outright reject Chris- him, and this man fascinated the Rastafarian influence. He and then later people like Ini tually exclusive. Last time I was don’t make sense. He’s not the tianity. So he finds his way to in Jamaica I went to this place kind of person who’s going to him. Then when Jimmy first was very close to Mortimer Kamoze and so on. I think there Islam first through the Nation comes to Kingston he’s heav- Planno, the Rasta elder and is that sense that Jimmy is very called Little Ochie in a little sit there and think “Well, this of Islam and then later he gets town called Alligator Pond, the doesn’t sound right to me but ily inspired by the Rasta camp leader. Planno becomes a kind much a Rasta in his own way, sound system was playing Maranhão in the north-east, he did was right and he knows foundation dancehall, you close to the Amazon basin, that the very people who were know early 80s Junjo Lawes which is where reggae first had protesting about him going type of stuff, then they were a foothold. He said there were there, he’s on the same side as bringing them a little more up so many people at the airport them. As he says it in the book, to date, then for about an hour that Jimmy and his band had they did it their way and he’s they played , early to be taken out of the place doing it his way. 1980s Madonna. Jamaicans through the pilot’s door and love pop music, and this idea put through a side exit to get In Senegal... entire villages as well that Jimmy’s pop re- them out of the airport without would be lining the roadsides cords were never popular in Ja- the public knowing! And then maica is also a total myth. Reg- this just incredible outpouring to cheer for Jimmy gae Night topped the charts in and the entire community turn- Finally there are some very Jamaica for months. ing out en masse for this free evocative but negative de- public performance that when scriptions of Jimmy of arriving The way Jimmy is received in a light tower starts to collapse in London to work with Chris Africa and in Brazil is one of somehow the crowd manage to make it stand back up again Blackwell. Would you say any the most compelling parts of because there’s so many peo- of your own experiences in the book and, for all those ple there. London have fed into that? purists, shines a light on what Greasy overcooked food and it is about him that was so Jimmy Cliff has made many miserable grey days? special. trips to Africa including South Africa in 1980. (laughs) Yeah. You know in the João Jorge, the leader of Olo- introduction to my book People dum, talks about how signifi- Aura Lewis talks specifically Funny Boy I talk about trading cant it was for the people in about when he was in Africa, my life in northern California Salvador up in Bahia in north- she’s from , how for “the grey chaos” of Lon- ern Brazil, the more African in Senegal everywhere they don. And anyone who’s ever part, the black part of Brazil. went entire villages would be been an immigrant here, par- For Jimmy to come, for them it lining the roadsides to cheer ticularly from a very different was like this huge inspiration for Jimmy. Also the guitarist, culture and somewhere where that they really drew from. Olo- Trevor Star talks about when the temperature, the environ- dum created a kind of revolu- they first went to Nigeria that ment and the lifestyle is very tion in music and also in terms Jimmy was just treated like a different, can probably relate of their own local society, and god. So you get this sense of to what Jimmy went through at Jimmy Cliff was part of the in- how significant he was to those that time. Yeah, my own expe- spiration they drew from. Peter people there. I’ve had South riences weren’t quite like Jim- Tosh was as well, but Jimmy Africans, both black and white, my’s and I came decades later. went there and ended up liv- they have said to me that eve- I’m sure it was much harder for ing amongst them and that for Jimmy. But I can relate to what CECILE ryone remembers when he them was another heavily im- performed at that stadium in he must have felt at that time portant catalyst. Béco Dranoff, Soweto. He faced a lot of flak from the way I felt when I came! “I’ve experienced the hostility towards Jamaicans this Brazilian music producer for that decision. For years af------and I want to change the perception of me” and promoter talks about when ter that event he was still fac- Interview by Angus Taylor Jimmy had returned to Brazil ing sanctions and all kinds of for the first time to go to São repercussions from it, but he Luis do Maranhão, this state said to me that he knows what ------“It’s not an accident that it’s radio-friendly. I’ve experi- Ce’Cile found Jamaican enced the hostility towards Ja- reggae in Europe maicans and I want to change ------the perception of me,” ex- The self-imposed bad gyal plains Ce’Cile and gives an ex- Ce’Cile dropped her second ample: full-length album Jamaicaniza- tion in August, for which she “One time I was offered a pre- went to Europe to find the Ja- recorded interview. And when maican reggae sound she was we did the interview he [the looking for. United Reggae interviewer] said ‘oh my God, got a chat with her when she you’re wonderful’. I’m be- stopped by Paris on her Euro- ing punished for something I pean promotional tour. haven’t done.” ------Ce’cile is a nice breeze in the heavily male dominated reg- Authentic reggae gae and dancehall scene. Just in Germany like Lady Saw she has made a ------name for herself by being out- Ironically enough she found spoken and delivering fierce the Jamaican sound she was and risky lyrics over pulsating looking for in Germany and dancehall riddims. producer Ben Bazzarian.

But Ce’Cile and Lady Saw have “I don’t want a wack hip-hop more in common. They both beat when I ask for a riddim. have their respective alter I don’t know what genre it is”, ego. Lady Saw sings gospel she says, and continues: and more roots oriented reg- gae under her real name Mar- “I wanted something authen- “It’s a way of getting fast mon- Have a positive way. Bounty ion Hall. Ce’Cile has created tic Jamaican. Ben is born in ey and a marketing tool,” she Killer shouldn’t sing another her bad gyal alter ego for her Iran and lives in Germany. He says. gun song. It doesn’t make more equivocal tunes. respects the culture and histo- sense anymore. His fans are ry of Jamaica. It’s a very good has reigned in Ja- probably also tired of that,” On her latest album ‘Jamai- ing that hip-hop coming from ------vibe in Germany.” maica for a long time and she explains, and concludes: canization’ she is more radio- Jamaica,” she explains, and even though Ce’Cile wants friendly than ever. But her adds: Change image ------to change the perception of “I don’t want to be Beenie voice is the same – combining ------Slackness sells herself she says she doesn’t Man, Vybz Kartel or Bounty sultry singing with rougher “There’s a lot of negativity in Ce’Cile talks fast. Very fast. ------judge people who sing about Killer. I want to be played. I deejay parts. music right now. I don’t want It’s hard for me to keep up with Ce’Cile says that it’s important guns and sex. want to show you what I can. to be vexed. I want to feel that her pace and understanding to be a well-rounded artist and When running a restaurant “It’s another side of me,” says love from Jamaica, a sweet her patois at times. But what that she’ll probably do some- “People are starving and you can’t only cook what you Ce’Cile on the phone, and con- island breeze. Easy-listening is perfectly clear is that she thing totally different in the fu- who are we to tell them the like. You have to be current tinues: and fun.” wants to change her image, ture. But it seems that it’ll still way out? It’s a hard life,” she and you have to be on top.” partly due to the general view be radio-friendly, even though states, and continues: ------“The concept I wanted was of dancehall artists as being she is clear about the fact that Interview by Erik Magni truly Jamaican. I wasn’t feel- rude and unreliable. slack lyrics sell. “It’s good to reinvent yourself. ------Bringing a positive vibe ------‘Lava Ground’, ‘Book of Life’ and ‘Life Teachings’ are all mainly based in the roots reggae tradition. Same goes for his lyrics. On his three al- bums he deals with the same themes – bringing a positive vibe and share life’s joy’s and messages.

“There is a preference for nas- tiness. Positive artists don’t get their fair attention,” he he doesn’t hide that he dis- he explains, and adds: states in the press release pri- likes slackness; or nastiness or to ‘Life Teachings’. as he likes to put it. Being “A lot of people get a lot of open with your opinions isn’t money from people to pro- I-Wayne speaks in a low voice. always easy, but that doesn’t mote nastiness. They are lead- He almost whispers, and turns seem to stop I-Wayne from ing them astray.” out to be a man of few words. sharing his ideas with the ------world. And he always comes back to Prisoner of life issues surrounding life. “I never get scared. If it’s ------“The album has a great mood, something good you can’t I-Wayne on the other hand a light mood. When we went to stop it. Slackness is not going wants to teach the youths I-Wayne the studio it was an irie vibe,” to take over. Just give it a little about life, especially about he explains. time,” he says, and adds: positivity. “It’s about sharing life and sharing knowl- edge” According to I-Wayne ‘Life “I could never sing slack lyr- “It’s all about doing the right Teachings’ is much like its ics, because that’s not me. thing, despite the negativity. ------en with an ital lifestyle and predecessor ‘Book of Life’. I’m working for life. I’m not I’m a prisoner of life. Love is rails against violence and I-Wayne grew up with music leading the youths astray. I life and life is love. You have to I-Wayne is a messenger consumerism. United Reg- around him. He was raised “It’s about sharing life and wouldn’t bother with it. I’m show respect for life and put of life gae got to talk with I-Wayne with his aunt and her husband sharing knowledge. Sharing promoting life. Not the nasti- life first,” he says, and con------about his favorite subject – was a musician. Since his ear- something with the world. ness.” cludes: ly days in school he always It’s about life itself. No slack- I-Wayne is one of the top life. found ways to practice his tal- ness,” he says. He blames the radio stations “More life”. conscious reggae artists I-Wayne is a singer blessed ent. for the strong interest in sing- with hits such as Can’t Sat------with an instantly recognizable ing about guns, sex and mate- isfy Her and Lava Ground. On “Slackness is not going Interview by Erik Magni voice. His high tone is grace- “I was beating on the desk in rial aspects of life. his latest album ‘Life Teach- ful, yet strong. This trademark school, beating on the phone to take over” ings’ he sings about the pos- has rendered him several hits booth on my way to school. “They play slackness more, itive and negative aspects of ------and three albums for VP Re- I love this thing,” he says on but there is positive music,” life – declaring love for wom- I-Wayne’s lyrics are frank and cords. the phone from Jamaica. name a few.

Producer Andrew “Bassie” Campbell has made Midnite Gregory Isaacs Midnite more accessible than I have ever heard before. It’s still the same raw, hypnotic and weighty sound that Midnite The Ruler: 1972-1990 Kings Bell is known for. And they’re still not flirting with the listener. The sing-a-long choruses and This smooth and crooning ap- grand harmonies are still no- proach was particularly well- where to be found. Midnite do suited for heartfelt ballads, their thing whether you like it and Gregory Isaacs was a pio- or not. But the sound is fuller neer in the lovers rock genre and the melodic hooks are very with the gentle My Only Lover. much present. The punchy bass lines are as usual also included But he had another, more root- just as Vaughn Benjamin’s in- sy, side too. And he always tensive and rugged chanting sang those songs in the same style of singing. He sings with honest and sensitive tone. Al- honesty and sincerity about re- ways easy-skanking and mel- ligion and social injustice. low, regardless of the lyrical content. ‘Kings Bell’ is perhaps also Midnite’s most varied set yet – Both of these sides of him are the ska-tinged Torpedo and the showcased on ‘The Ruler’. It in- percussion driven The Quick- cludes material from the early ening are the two most telling 70’s and his debut album ‘All I examples, although not the Have is Love’ up until the 90’s crucial moments of the album. and his momentous collabora- Instead the highlights include tion with producer Augustus Earth is the Lords with its re- “Gussie” Clarke. lentless bass line that made If you didn’t know – Midnite Midnite’s most my kitchen utensils shake and lected on the brand new com- drops an average of around five The During these years Gregory Black Mamba and Jewel inna pilation ‘The Ruler’, which also accessible yet. albums each year. I have found Isaacs managed to work with Africa Horn with their memo- still reigns. includes a DVD with a live per- 45 albums with their name on several of the most acclaimed rable guitar licks. I’m not sure formance at the Brixton Acad- it. And that doesn’t include Jamaican producers and musi- I must admit I haven’t listened whether this album will rock- Last year when Gregory Isaacs emy in London in 1984. singer Vaughn Benjamin’s solo cians. But he has also made a to VI-reggae trailblazers Mid- et the charts, but it certainly died of lung cancer only 59 efforts. ‘Kings Bell’ is the title considerable amount of crucial nite much at all. They came to made me discover a new side years old I put together a list Gregory Isaacs certainly had of Midnite’s fifth album in 2011. self-productions. ‘The Ruler’ my attention only a couple of of this individual band. with some of my favorite songs one of the most distinctive and includes both, which makes years ago, even though they It’s their first full-length with with the man called the Cool most recognizable voices in a Jamaican producer, and it’s this compilation a thorough have been around since 1989 ‘Kings Bell’ hits the streets on Ruler. reggae music. He was vulner- mostly recorded at and worthwhile summary of and dropped their debut album November 1st on CD and digital able and intimate and always Studios in Jamaica with several Gregory Isaacs’ legacy. ‘Unpolished’ 14 years ago. download. Almost all of these ten tunes – sounded like he had just been Maybe their vast production acclaimed veteran musicians – and about another 30 – are col- left by his woman for another has been some kind of barrier. Leroy “Horsemouth” Wallace Review by Erik Magni man. and Earl “Chinna” Smith to Review by Erik Magni Dubmatix presents Four worthwhile Clash of the Titans EP’s Last years Sys- If you enjoyed ‘System Break- Tony Curtis, ly over Disrupt’s and Rootah’s a preponderance for the latter. tem Shake- down’ you’ll very much enjoy Brother Cul- bouncy riddims. Two of the vo- this and if you didn’t you should cal cuts are also followed by Review by Erik Magni down handed still check it out as some of the ture, Solo Ban- their merciless dub counter- over to some remixes, like Mungo’s Hi Fi’s ton and Franz parts. bass shuddering, spacey, mini- of the reggae mal take on Gun Down which job recently Brother Culture is a veteran on world’s most featured The Ragga Twins, are released good the UK reggae scene and has talented remix- totally unrecognizable from EP’s. recorded with a bunch of rough the original and if that version edged producers – Mungo’s ers/producers. doesn’t do it for you there are Hi-Fi, Dougie Conscious and two more unique versions of In the last couple of weeks to mention only lease and I for one am grateful As you will have already gath- that cut alone for you to try. four interesting EP’s have hit three. His latest effort City of for this as what we have here is ered from the title this album the streets – Rebel Lover Boy Vibes is however produced by a very diverse and interesting sees last years superb ‘Sys- As usual with Dubmatix pro- from Franz Job, Music Addict Swiss production team Kiny- take on what was already some tem Shakedown’ handed over duction is crisp and clean with by Solo Banton, City of Vibes ama Sounds. Their first pro- quality cuts which have had to some of the world’s most deep bass tones helping to from Brother Culture and Tony ductions together were for the new and exciting life breathed talented remixers/producers, make this one clash where eve- Curtis’ Fight It. compilation Reggae Dishes in in to them. Thankfully as well namely Zion Train, G.Corp, rybody wins. 2009. Those two songs along with such great vocalists as Marcus Visionary, Liondub, All of these are European pro- with five other organic tunes The , Tippa Vibronics, Victor Rice, Duibvi- ductions and the artists are are collected on the sweet City Irie, Dennis Alcapone, Kulcha Review by Karl Pearson sionist, Mungo’s Hi-Fi, Aldubb, also mainly from Europe, Tony of Vibes. Ites, Jay Douglas, The Ragga Nate Wize, TVS, Subatomic Curtis being the one exception. Twins, Ammoye, Brother Cul- Soundsystem, Webcam Hi-Fi, Jamaican singer Tony Curtis has ture and U-Brown many of the DJ Shine, Eccodek and last but Franz Job debut album Babylon been in the spotlight since he remixes have retained the vo- not least DJ Brace… phew that’s is Dead was one of the best al- won a Jamaican talent contest cal parts which has only gone quite a list. bums in 2009, and his newly in the early 90’s. Since then to embellish and enrich the fu- initiated collaboration with UK he has released solo material turistic sounds and vibes that According to Dubmatix this pro- producer Curtis Lynch has ren- as well as being one fourth of have been created and touch ject was originally only going dered in a partly new sound. the star-studded vocal group on traditional deep and rootsy to be a single 12” vinyl release, Rebel Lover Boy is harder and L.U.S.T, alongside Singing dubs, hot steppers, dubstep, but with so many great remix- more electronic compared to Melody, Thriller U and Lukie D. ragga, jungle, future dub and es coming in the material was the 70’s sounding debut. How- On his six track EP Fight It for in the case of Eccodek’s Mali considered too good to waste ever, High is classic Job. Greenyard Records he invites to Mumbai Remix of Wobble and so it has now expanded rock stone deejays Burro Ban- Weeble stripped back funky to this, CD and digital release Solo Banton is no stranger to ton and Cutty Ranks and sings touches on a hip hop beat with plus a limited, to 500 copies, 80’s inspired digital riddims. with his usual rich voice about north African slants! double 12” gatefold vinyl re- And on his Jahtari-produced EP oppression and romance, with Music Addict he flows natural- songstress Soom T who shows bum reaches its culmination with her diversity in vocal stylings as the genteel named Gentleman’s she evocatively sings Bad Bad Dub Club who come with a brassy Mungos Hi Fi Boy over an updated ska riddim herb homage in the shape of High before delivering a rapid fire chat Grade Remix that teeters on that on Soundboy Police, riding a rid- rap/reggae crossover style. dim that sounds like its been cre- Forward Ever ated on a Casio MT40 that’s been ‘Forward Ever’ is an album working out in the gym for the steeped in the very best reggae last 20years. traditions, with Mungos immense New heights live work feeding directly into the reached with Another Mungo’s stalwart turning studio production and despite the up is Kenny Knots with an appeal riddims being digitally made there their blend of for more love, on the Bogle rid- is a warmth and depth to them reinvigorated dim driven Gimme Gimme. There that betrays their stark roots. The foundation are some digital grooves for two art work on the cover, beautifully of Europe’s new vocal talents the created by Elen also harks back to reggae, dub softly spoken Pupa Jim, remind- those golden days with a cartoon and dancehall. ing us of the contemporary reali- of a dance in full effect, which if ties of inequality on the poignant you get the gatefold double vinyl Boat People while French MC opens out so you can really ap- Scotish soundsystem smashers Biga Ranx gives us his insight to preciate the colour and life in the Mungo’s Hi Fi are finally back with soundsystem culture on Session picture. their long and eagerly anticipated On Top. Another enterprising Eu- follow up to 2008’s ‘Soundsys- ropean vocalist YT, backed by the The end of the year is fast ap- tem Champions’. Bad From riddim, tackles compla- proaching and I fully expect to cency on Scream as the steadfast see this album feature in many of The new album, the aptly named Omar Perry continues the attack those annual top 10’s. ‘Forward Ever’, does just that and on the Babylon system by bring- pushes them on to new heights ing brimstone and fire on Dem No with their blend of reinvigorat- Review by Erik Magni Like It. ed foundation reggae, dub and dancehall music. Each of the 15 Zeb and lighten the mood cuts on display here has already by bring more old school dance- been tried and tested at various The cut was recorded in Scotland ent, prodigious Southend dweller hall vibes on Warm Up, a cut that gatherings and they slam into you shortly before his passing and the young Charlie P quickening could just as easily be about their relentlessly with no drop in qual- the lyrical content acts like an in- the pace on a pumping version of native Scottish weather as the ity and style, for make no mistake troduction to Mungos and is the Billy Jean while letting rip on the dance. there is no filler here. Also with perfect preface to what you about ultra-infectious Skidip. UK Reg- the album being compiled as if hear. gae Performer Of The Year award New York Boogie features Rank- Mungos were playing it in the winner 2008 Mr Williamz fires ing Levy’s laidback foundation dance the ebb and flow to album The 14 cuts that then follow in out the first of two cuts Comput- DJ style, sounding a kin to Big is just right. this rich vein of form feature er Age, a rough and rugged chat Youth. Levy along with his part- some top established and up and about the advance of technology ner, Elen make up My Lord Sound It all kicks off with the late great coming vocalists. There is the before dropping big time on a which apparently is something Godfather of Dancehall Sugar Mi- Germany based Rasta Pacey who ground shaking for Mu- of an institution in Israel. The al- nott on ‘Scrubadub Style’, ridding sings of diversity on a cover of sically Mad. Another artist who on Mungos own Greetings riddim. Errol Dunkley’s Everyman Differ- appears twice is the Glaswegian Report and Interview: KEHV in Hollywood Ambassah brought on stage budding Kehv took a seat with his gui- new talent from all facets of tar and started playing an the entertainment world. We acoustic set for his audience. were all fully entertained with Rub A Dub Showcase Part II hip-hop from Kalcium, Big Fiz, Mareezy, and City P. Spoken Describing himself as a “Carib- Exquisite rub a word poetry flowed like riv- bean Sol-Jah” he told us about ers from Donna Gia Levasseur, his music career being a long dub from Am- Jeremy Cotto, Maru Gonza- journey for him - he said that bassah. lez and Damali. Lovely sing- Bob Marley is a major inspira- A moment with KEHV ing from Binghi Blaze, Lucky tion for him, Kehv joked with Unfortunately I don’t know at Whateva Works, and Jocelyn Pena and lots of the crowd, “Vibe with me to- much about the Spanish reg- Hollywood, Florida. laughs from comedians Nigel night, I am NOT Stephen - work gae scene apart from my en- Alvarez and Ozzie the Show- with me” as he went into his counters with producer and “Rain rain go away- come back man which was the perfect rendition of Stephen Marley’s musician Roberto Sánchez. His another day” Was definitely warm-up for the main per- “Tight Ship” Requests for his productions together with Earl the mantra for all attendees former for the night - KEHV. song “Masquerade” followed. Zero and Alpheus are essential on Friday October 7, 2011. in any record collection. Heading out on a night like this seemed like a crazy idea, For those of you who haven’t The tempo was picked up as But now my horizon is widened, however, the downpour did gotten the opportunity to dis- a bluesy reggae song called since another Spanish produc- not dampen anyone’s spirit in- cover Kehv yet, you missed “Addict of You” was sung, er has come forward. Ambas- side Hollywood’s best kept se- out on a real treat. Born in the people clapped with the sah has collected 17 tunes re- cret “Tempo’s Music Lounge”. Jamaica, Kehv started sing- rhythm of the guitar and sang corded between 2005 and 2011 ing in the choir at the age of along “Fyah!” with the cho- on ‘Rub A Dub Showcase Part 10 years old. Realizing his rus. He then requested that II’, a compilation where Robero Whateva’ Works is a com- love for singing he decided we light up with some lighters Sánchez turns up as co-pro- munity based organization to pursue music as a career. or cell phones and serenaded ducer, engineer and musician. which focuses on both busi- He has gone on tour to coun- the crowd with “Love will find Nine of these tracks have previ- nesses and independent art- tries like Brazil and Germany, a way”. Taking his hat off, he ously been released on Pirate’s nott. All three makes impres- sions with a rich texture and ists’ development and part worked with Kymani Marley opened up to us and explained Choice Recordings as 10”. The sive efforts. three are extended versions proceeds is always donated and . Also he has that the song “Never Too Far” other eight are actually unre- with a similar sound. to charity which shows they shared the stage with Inner was a song that he wrote leased until now. But the real masterpiece is are focused on giving back; Circle, Beenie Man, when he has lost his mother. Breeze and Trees’ – DJ’s Rank- ‘Rub A Dub Showcase Part II’ is which is a plus! Being that and Sean Kingston to name “Mama, don’t worry ‘bout ‘Rub A Dub Showcase Part II’ ing Forrest and Jah Breeze – an exciting and accomplished it was the first Friday of the a few. Now dubbed as the me, everything’s going to be carry some deep early 80’s Two the Hard Way (Extended), set that builds on the best from month - Whateva’ Works host- “Prince of Reggae Soul” it is okay” although it was an emo- dancehall grooves and the where the DJ duo goes Michi- early Jamaican dancehall. ed a beautiful open mic night very easy to see why he is com- tional moment for him to sing eight different riddims – of gan & Smiley over the skanking which promised to “bring pared to such greats as Maxi this particular song. Smiling, which two are relicks – are Monday Sounds riddim with its Review by Erik Magni fresh flavor in a cultural way.” Priest and . he thanked everyone for com- built on live instrumentation. lethal horns riff. ing to see his performance. Vocalists include singers such as Alpheus, Horace Martin and Apart from vocals there is a lot “That’s what’s up!” was the Dressed casually in jeans and the Godfather of Dancehall of dub going on here as well. phrase for the night as the red t-shirt with his dreads All in all, it was a wonderful himself – the late Sugar Mi- Nine of the 17 cuts are dub ver- energetic MC Melissa Capo tucked under a Fedora hat, I could only be humbled by only tell me what they think I such a comparison. These art- want to hear to get what they Glen Washington in Beverly Hills ist have done what I’m in the want.. A harsh reality to wake process of doing and still today up to everyday but it’s sober- taking it to higher heights. I do ing despite the bitter . however, strive to make the es- Glen Washington off with Jah Glory, then fol- sence I bring to the music felt What advice would you give to played at The Joint, lowing up with Stranger… the enough to stand apart from aspiring musicians? Beverly Hills, Cali- ladies swooning all the while. Next, from the album ‘Num- those I might be compared to. Find your Why. The reason fornia on October. ber One Girl’, Glen treated us why you sing, dance, act, paint What inspires you when writ- to Shana Na Na, Consider Me etc... And never let that go. ing music? and One of These Days. With Glen Washington has been so much original material to Life inspires me. My life, your Is there any artists that you prominent on the reggae draw from, Glen had to pick life, the life of the misunder- would like to do a collaboration scene since 1978, when he and choose from the requests stood, etc.. People need to be with? Why? recorded his first hit, Rock- being called out from the represented ers Not Crackers, on the Joe Etana, I believe our music crowd. He did eighteen songs Gibbs . It took would be beautiful together. in his set and I was lucky Is there an artist that influ- another decade before we got Stephen Marley- I sense we enough to get a set list so you night with people full of prom- enced you the most? a chance to hear his smooth, may have lots in common. Jen- can peruse it and find all of ise. Whateva’ Works holds an raspy voice again on his sec- I cannot say that one artist nifer Hudson- Very passionate the songs! Glen was brought open mic night every first and ond hit, Kindness for Weak- more than the next influences voice. Jimmy Cliff- I love his back for an encore by his third Friday night every month ness. Known as the singing me. I would say good music vibes. Just to name a few. thrilled audience and gave us so if this is in your area - be drummer Glen has played moves me period. four more songs closing his sure to check it out. Tell us about any plans for the with many reggae groups set with Can’t Keep A Good Whats the most fun part of be- future. including Calabash, who Man Down, the title track to After the show we caught ing a musician? backed many of reggae’s fin- I’m currently working on my his album of the same name, up with Kehv and he was est singers… Leroy Sibbles, I love the travelling, though second album, Lots of music his waist-length locks sway- kind enough to answer a few Shinehead, Junior Reid, Greg- it may get tough on the road, being made right now as I sang ing to the riddim. questions. ory Isaacs and Sister Carol. I love to see new faces and maybe one tune for you that Glen garnered eight awards Tell me about the moment places. night “Addict of you” It’s all Exhausted from dancing and from 1998-2002 for his won- you knew that you wanted to about the music right now for snapping photos I made my derful voice and music. pursue music? What makes it Is there a particular message me. More shows and appear- way backstage to capture a you were hoping to convey few shots with visiting dig- worth it? ances but definitely fine tuning Frequently compared to Be- when “Simply Kehv” came into nitaries including Andrew my craft preparing for the next res Hammond, Glen’s style I cannot truly recall a time in creation? Bees, actual lead singer from level.. of singing is mostly romantic my life without this fermented . Glen was very I wanted to introduce myself and he quite enjoys the com- pursuit I still have in my being gracious and obliged all of to the masses simply as KEHV. parison… Beres is one of his for getting to know music bet- my snapping photos. He is Give people a taste of where Report by Sarah Soutar favorite artists! Glen is a pro- ter. Changing lives make this a great and talented man. I’ve been and where I was mu- Photos by Gail Zucker lific as well, pen- journey worth it. Bringing the Thanks to The Joint and Glen sically, at the time of the album ning most of the songs that project to the masses and see- Washington for a fabulous drop. he records on his albums. He ing, feeling and experiencing night of reggae music. the music come to life in the has recorded ten albums to What is your biggest challenge hearts of the audience, more date. in the music industry? than words. This was a much anticipated Report and photos The biggest challenge is find- How does it feel to be compared evening and The Joint was by Jan Salzman ing honesty in the ones I meet to such great artists as Maxi packed with adoring fans. along the way. I find that many Priest and Beres Hammond? Glen took to the stage starting Peter Tosh Symposium in Kingston Check these photos of the symposium Peter Tosh: Activ- ist, protagonist and Musical genius, One of Jamaica’s Unsung Heroes. Chuck Fender Recently the University of the in Venice West Indies (U.W.I.) hosted a symposium on the late reggae Chuck Fender began singer, Peter Tosh. The sym- his European tour posium focused on how Peter with a show at Rivol- through his music included so- ta PVC in Venice, Italy His debut album ‘Better Days’, cial commentary on education, on October 29th 2011. was released in 2004, two politics, social and financial is- years after his conversion sues of the country. The audi- After a wonderful summer to the Rastafarian religion. ence were also informed about that brought to Europe a rich the circumstances that lead to list of great artists, the Ital- The reggae night at Riv- the writing of songs like Johnny ian massive is already look- olta begun with the Ital- B. Goode, Where You Gonna ing forward another great reg- ian reggae artist Jah Farmer, Run and Glass House. gae season. And there’s no that opened the show and better way to start it with a warmed the audience present- great artist like Chuck Fender. ing his first work ‘Fearless’. Among the panellists were Dr. Currently touring Europe It was about midnight when the EF Hutton, lecturer at U.W.I, baked by the House of Rid- musicians of the House of Rid- Dr. Omar Davies, opposition dim band, the “poor people dim band came on stage, and spokesperson on the Ministry defender”, performed on No- after a while Mr “The Living of Transportation, Copeland vember 29th in Marghera Fire” Chuck Fender jumped out!! Forbes, former manager of Pe- (Venice-Italy). The show took enjoy with a great performance. ter Tosh and son of the reggae place at Rivolta P.V.C., a self- The Italian massive could en- legend, Dave Tosh. The audi- After the show Chuck Fender managed social centre, where joy with some of his great- ence was elated when Peter’s came for a little bit among the the music is the first aim. est hits, and also with some common-law wife, Marlene tunes he performed on audience and met his fans! made a surprise appearance on Chuck Fender is an American some very famous riddims. He’s not only a great singer but the panel. The event was also Reggae musician and deejay also a great man! Blessed love held in celebration of Tosh’s born in Brooklyn in 1972 but The vibes were great and Chuck to the poor people defender… birthday. raised in Jamaica. His musical was so hyperactive jumping and career began in 1996 with the dancing! It was a great show, and even if the lights on stage released of his first singles. Report by Nadia Bestjamaica were not perfect, we could Report by Steve James Alpheus and Ras Shiloh in Paris

Alpheus and Ras Shiloh performed at New Morning in Par- is on November 4th, 2011.

Mami Wata Association pro- moted the event and set up a beautiful display this even- ing with 2 talented artists: the Studio One singer Alpheus and the versatile and energetic Ras Shiloh. The show opened with JIPS, a young French artist, who gave a nice set. He was followed by Alpheus, who performed with a mix of ska and rocksteady songs. He gave a stellar per- formance and led his show with energy and precision. He also gave a demonstration of ska dance. The audience thor- oughly enjoyed this dance that swept Jamaica back in the day. Ras Shiloh entered the stage with vigor and vitality. This artist’s energy is impressive, and his charismatic presence on stage thrilled the audience. His melodic voice compliment- ed his stage presence and his rootsy blend of music was a delight. A special big up to the Moon Band that backed all artists throughout the evening.

Report and photos by Franck Blanquin Bob Andy Unplugged

Bob Andy Unplugged was held Friday, October 25th at the Karl Hendrickson auditorium, Jamaica College, Kingston. The event was well attended and saw over twenty-nine artiste doing their interpretation of songs written by one of Jamaica’s most prolific . The show brought out singers both from the era when these classics were recorded to some of our current generation of reggae artiste.

On several occasions through the night the audience stood up to pay homage to the man who has helped to shape Jamaica reggae music.

Unplugged which was divided into three segments saw the likes of Desi Jones & the All Star Reggae band, & We the People along with backing orchestra led by Peter Ashbourne & Ibo Cooper. Every artiste billed performed extremely well. However, those who took it up a notch were , Chevaugn Clayton, Marcia Griffiths, Pro- toje, Big Youth, & Freddie McGregor. Before the curtains came down Marcia Griffiths made a surprise announcement that it was also the singer’s sixty seventh birthday. The attentive audience rose to the occasion and joined in the singing of Happy Birthday in Ms. Lou’s style.

Report and photos by Steve James On’ and ‘Thanks and Praise’. list for their favorite songs. Collie Buddz and My favorites of the evening Collie closed the main por- Gappy Ranks in were his hit, Heaven In My tion of his set blasting out Eyes, Put the Stereo On and his one drop anthem Come Hollywood his adaption of Bob Marley’s Around. We all brought him Soul Rebel. back onstage again with the It was a cool California even- same refrain…Collie-Buddz! ing in West Hollywood, but After a brief intermission of Collie-Buddz! The audience things were soon to heat up about thirty minutes, the was treated to four more inside the famed Roxy Thea- curtains came up again. songs ending with his mega tre. Opening the night’s mu- The members of New King- hit Blind to You. He had eve- sical performances was New ston trickled back onto the ryone in the house hold up Kingston Band, residing in stage. Hypeman, and side- the middle fingers to the New York the three “broth- kick to Collie Buddz, DJ Pee “haters” of the world. Al- ers”, Courtney M. Panton, Wee came out to rev up the ways a bit controversial, he singing drummer, Tahir Pan- near capacity crowd. Pee was speaking to an adult ton, singing keyboardist Wee directed the crowd on crowd. Collie did a medley and Stephen Suckarie, lead how to bring Collie onstage at the end of the night of vocals and guitar, rocked with the statement, “When old reggae dancehall hits. I the house with tunes from I say Collie, you say Buddz! wasn’t able to catch the ti- their debut album ‘In the Collie-Buddz, Collie-Buddz,” tles, but it was fun for all. Streets’. The young trio real- complied the audience. Col- Completely satisfied from ly drives the reggae riddim! lie bounded onstage to a the show I packed up my New Kingston are all excel- feverish pitch with Mister photo gear and headed lent musicians and vocalists Harper, of course, that’s also backstage to say hi and providing all the elements of who he is! With his reggae complement everyone on a great reggae performance singjay style, Collie worked the exceptional performanc- including some great flash- all sides of the stage in his es. There was positive vibes ing dreadlocks! Their ener- oh, so charming ways sing- all around. I headed home getic performance preced- ing to the lineup of pretty listening to Collie’s Play- ed Gappy Ranks and they girls who skirted the whole back EP. would later be the backing stage. By the third song Col- band for Collie Buddz set. lie dipped into the tracks of Report and photos by Jan his much acclaimed 2007 Salzman Gappy Ranks, hailing from album ‘Collie Buddz’, with the UK was next up. Born his song Let Me Know. Audi- of a Jamaican father and a ences all over the world sing Dominican mother, Gappy along with his lyrics and LA sings and chats great dance- proved to be among the best hall music. Performing with at not dropping a word! This the sound system and a brought lots of smiles from mix master, he thrilled the Collie. I was able to retrieve crowd with songs from his a set list from the stage at two albums, ‘Put the Stereo the end of the night so all of our readers can check the Chuck Fender and Johnny Clarke live in London

“It’s been five years” said the Living Fire AKA Chuck Fender to an enthusias- tic London crowd - some of whom may remember his no show at a luckless promo- the biggest reaction came the dancehall thing” said Mr tion at the Stratford Rex in for his hit Gash Dem, which Clarke, by way of appease- 2007. And although in the was played both before ment. He was in fine voice excitement, he did refer to and after his encore. True over five rub-a-dub era re- the Brixton Hootananny as to his raw delivery, Fender cordings of hits including “Birmingham” there was no didn’t sugarcoat the harsh Declaration Of Rights, None doubt in their minds as to realities that feed his lyr- Shall Escape The Judgment where he was – giving the ics, telling the story of the and King In The Arena, chid- UK due attention as part of six year old girl whose bru- ing the engineer when they a tour that has already tak- tal attack inspired the song rewound too slow. “Next en in Germany, Switzerland, – noting the irony of it get- time, Rastafari” was his Portugal, Poland and Italy ting banned when such a parting promise as he left with Austria’s hardworking horror was allowed to take the stage. The opening act House Of Riddim band. place. The House Of Riddim, was London-based Jamai- who Fender praised saying can singer Soulie Roots. Dressed in a flannel shirt “They understand Jamaica and black vest the New York- and they understand fire” Chuck Fender returns to Ger- born, Spanish Town-raised typically didn’t waste a note many, Switzerland and the deejay delivered fiery fare all night. House Of Riddim’s home of like I Swear, Jah Is Worthy Austria before hitting Jamai- and All About The Weed, This time it was fans of ca for a Christmas Day bash each time prefaced by a billed chief support act Half in St Elizabeth. The Hootan- blast of Richie Spice’s cuts Pint who were disappointed anny will be back with an- on their respective rhythms. when his eight-date tour other highly prized appear- “They say Chuck Fender you was abruptly cancelled. Yet ance from the legendary bun too much fire” he then promoter Cecil Reuben was on December conceded, “so I’m going to able to secure the veteran 11th. sing for the ladies” giving Johnny Clarke at short no- them Good Man In Your Life tice as his replacement – Report by Angus Taylor and his showing it’s not what goes Photos by Andrew Thomp- combination Are You Com- wrong but how you fix it that son ing Over Tonight. Of course, counts. “We started Etana enjoyed herself in Etana in Paris France and remarked during her press conference: “On- It was roots, rock reggae stage I am sincere and true at New Morning on Novem- and that’s what the public ber 18 when Etana, the new likes”. She finished her set Queen of New Roots Reg- with I am Not Afraid as the gae, performed in Paris audience cheered her on. and promoted her new al- bum ‘Free Expression’. This Report and Photos spiritual and soulful young by Franck Blanquin singer from Jamaica is plant- ing her seed in a male domi- nated reggae industry.

Meta Dia, singer from Sene- gal living in New York, USA, was the opening artist of the show. He delivered an acoustic set, and is very tal- ented with original material and fresh compositions. His powerful lyrics and inter- national sound makes him a successful up and com- ing artist, and Paris hopes to see him in headlining a show in the near future.

After Meta Dia’s perfor- mance, the members of French backing band Dub Akom Band appeared on stage to back Etana. Smiling with enthusiam, she gave a exceptional show, perform- ing her big tunes during her set such as Jah Chariot and August Town as well as some covers tunes by Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff such as Rasta Man Chant, The Harder they Come and Sim- mer Down. MAGAZINE

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