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If
your knowledge of Apache Indian is limited to 1993’s radio
friendly pop-ragga hit ‘Boom Shack-A-Lak’, please
read on; and if it isn’t, chances are you’ll be pleased
to see this review as it has been a few years since there has
been anything new. 2000’s Karma - which included
versions of some of the songs here - was the last that I am aware
of.
Time For Change opens with Apache’s instantly recognisable
ragga dee-jaying and the absolutely unmistakable tones of Desmond
Dekker on a supercharged remake of ‘The Israelites’ (and
it closes with a remix of the same track). In between, there is surprisingly
contemporary sounding R&B inflected dancehall, ‘Acting
Shady’ has Indian flavoured dancehall beats (as do many other
items) and his delivery proves that Apache has been keeping up with
the latest bashment developments, whilst he can call up guests of
the calibre of The Fugees’ Pras and the Messenger himself,
Luciano, on other tracks. Also included is Apache’s Tsunami
Relief single ‘Om Numah Shivayah’ (visit: www.downloadaid.com).
Producer Handel Tucker turns up for ‘Global Talk’ and ‘Throw
Your Hands Up’ - the latter with El Feco and Wil Guice, but
there is also plenty of yardcore reggae elsewhere too. In short,
the beautifully packaged and presented ‘Time For Change’ proves
that Apache Indian is back and shows that he is at the top of his
game, in as impressive a form as he ever has been, still resolutely
pursuing his own individual path and as committed as ever to peace,
love and tolerance.
...And that message is as vital as ever. I write this shortly after
the clashes between Black and Asian youth in Apache’s home
city of Birmingham, England, in Handsworth, the very area that brought
us Steel Pulse and Apache Indian. Steve
Kapur is a living example
of the positive interchange and exchange between these two communities.
His music remains as vital as ever. -
Norman Darwen
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