Reggae / Ska Music CD reviews

Reggae music has been a great musical addition that has been popularized both by legends like Bob Marley, and mainstream feel from punk rockers in the 70s like The Clash. Whatever form it takes, Reggae music will get it's reviews here, and there is a lot out there today as well, and I will be trying to scour and find you the best Reggae music for reviews. 

Steel Pulse - Regaae Remasters of Earth Crisis and True Democracy on CD from Rhino - Info and  WIN Them FREE

     10 Years in the making. Willie Nelson  tries Reggae, was it worth the wait for Willie Nelson's  Countryman?

Easy Star All-Stars - Dub Side Of The Moon

When I first heard one of the biggest classic rock albums of all time was to be redone reggae style, I have to be honest, I really couldn't see how it was possible. That was of course until I strolled into the post office and received the disc from Easy Star records. Dub Side Of The Moon is of course a reggae tribute to the Pink Floyd CD "Dark Side Of The Moon". The first feeling I got when I plugged this little gem into my stereo was "Wow, this is great". A true original, taking the original strange groundbreaking music and making it more strange yet still identifiable.

The mental imagery of college days when you are walking through campus and smell smoke you know is not tobacco floating from various different places is what makes this CD memorable. This is not just for the college "stoners" , but for fans of Reggae and the Pink Floyd version, if you dare try a CD that contorts the original masterpiece. I find it intriguing and original, and that may just bring in new audiences to the original work also.

58 minutes of Rasta beats, and some dub versions that captivate as well as entertain, and this is destined to become one of the classic CDs that is used to escape reality with that illicit smile many chase. Just as the 1973 original was mind bending, and blowing, the Easy Star All-Stars bring a new twist to the album, and the mesmerizing sounds and instrumentation will be sure to make the bong users very happy as it will take you through the intense production and allow your mind to wander aimlessly. There is an underlying thread that strangely unites the two albums and styles (This and Floyd's version) as many people know the connection between Rasta and Floyd (don't think too hard).

If you are hesitant simply because you think it may bastardize the classic, think again, the tribute is well executed although it may not be for all. Personally I think the new sound make this a wonderful tribute for all who dare to be a bit different. Smoke your brains and sit back and be transported, recommended listening volume is far above the 50% level you may be used to, the background behind the music is a great treat for the senses. The haunting version of "Brain Damage" is worth the price alone. One of the best good time records of the year!

   ( 5 Stars out of 6 )

Moosa - Get Away

Before you get to wondering, this Richmond, Virginia band is not your typical reggae band, they are however a roots band with a definitive reggae feel. The vocals are solid, the tracks are good, and the feel will bring a bit of warmth to the chilly weather that is bound to hit sooner rather than later. You get a feel that Moosa not only perform the music, but rather become the music and draw on influences from country to rock, and almost everything in between.

The band have a flair for the music they lay down instilling a good feeling on all that listen. There is some very nice guitar work here from Jim Fabricatore that ranges and crosses musical boundaries too, an air of progressive jazz, funk and straight ahead rock while keeping the sound all the time constant. John Moosa's vocals are an experience in themselves as he ranges from rootsy rough edged to smooth and sleek.

A positive CD in a negative word, Moosa can transport you to a different existence if you feel bombarded by the news of late, the feeling here is harmonious and peaceful as well as smart and fresh. Nailing down a category for this band is an impossibility, it's not that they are still searching for a sound, it's more that they perform and blend genres with confidence and true ability.

Not to be forgotten, Ryan Davis does a great jog laying down the bass line, and Scott Lewis is at home with the drums and percussions. The overall feel here is that of honesty, ability, and energy that can also transcend age barriers as there is almost assuredly something here for the masses. "Dragon's Den", "Stained Glass Window", and "Break Apart" are pure examples of the diversity and talent Moosa have put forth here.

   ( 4.5 Stars out of 6 )

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