 |
Artist:
|
Junior Reid |
|
|
click on
image Check out photos of Jr. Reid and the entire One Blood Family at Reggae on the River '05 in our Gallery |
Last August I was blessed to make a long overdue journey to Humboldt County, CA (home of the good green) for Reggae on the River 2005. Entering the concert arena on the first day I found myself doing a quick double-take as I passed the artists stand. Could it be? Indeed, Junior “One Blood” Reid himself stood a mere ten feet away. I was surprised that he was still in attendance, since his outstanding performance had passed the previous day. Unable to resist, I approached the counter and perused the selection of cds Mr. Reid was offering. Moments later, Junior greeted me and I was able to ask his advice on which to purchase. Without hesitation, he handed me this disc – stopping only to sign a quick inscription on the inside liner. Now that’s what I call a keepsake! Had the cd been just “ok” I would have still been pleased as rum punch. To my great joy, his suggestion was right on the mark. The cd is filled with a selection of fourteen classic, yet somewhat overlooked Jr. Reid cuts, many of which are featured in extended dub mixes. A few notes in, the listener is struck with one undeniable fact – the falsetto stylings of this true roots master shine in timeless glory. Fans of early Jr. Reid will find some familiar material here. Dub versions of “Speak the Truth” as well as “Mini Bus Driver”, “Chanting” and “Palaving Street” breathe of life into the old school tracks. The haunting “Jailhouse” tells a dark tale of poverty and persecution, while “Poor Man Transportation” encourages pedaling your bike in favor of pushing the gas pedal. The heartsick “Love Affair” promotes open communications - and when that fails, adjusting of expectations. “Black Man Seed” urges sustaining life, not aborting it. The deep, throbbing bass of “Concrete Castle King” chastises those who sit in high places, reminding them that their actions have consequences. All of the tracks have been masterfully remixed, with tons of bass and gratuitous special effects. Old dawgs and new fans alike should check this disc, and add some “new classics” to their collection. -Allie |
||