CD Review: Various, “Strictly Vocals”

Various Artists
[Reggae Vibes, 2003]

If a compilation includes a track by Luciano, it generally gets an “A” in my book. Well, that’s not entirely true, but this collection, in a somewhat deceiviIng cover, is a sweet collection. Reggae Vibes pulls together some of the best veteran singers in the industry with Gregory Isaacs, Yami Bolo, Toots Hibbert, Luciano, Dennis Brown, Tony Curtis, Johnny Osbourne and Wayne Wonder, and showcases some newer artists with Mikey General, Khani Jones, Kymani Marley, and Mahlon Stewart. Whether a spiritual or lovers slant, all of these tracks effuse spirit and emotion.  Read more... (199 words + 1 image)

Reasoning with Morgan Heritage

Roots and Culture lives on. This is extremely evident looking into the wide eyes of Peter Morgan, lead vocalist for the remarkably talented, R&B-influenced Reggae band, Morgan Heritage. Under the auspices of their father, Denroy Morgan, the youthful siblings are now staring directly into fame’s bright light. Having released a new album, “Don’t Haffi Dread”, and riding on the success of the critically acclaimed “Liberation” compilation, Morgan Heritage is the hottest young group in Reggae.  Read more... (2018 words + 1 image)

Reasoning with Michael Rose

“Who is the biggest headliner on the bill this weekend?” asked a friend of mine at Reggae in the Park.

“Probably Michael Rose,” I responded.

“Hmmm… That’s strange. I’ve never heard of him,” she said.

“Remember Black Uhuru?” I asked.

“Ah yes. You mean the band that sings ‘Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner’ and ‘I Love King Selassie’?”  Read more... (1358 words + 1 image)