Burning Spear
Calling Rastafari
(Heartbeat)
If you missed Burning Spear's recent show at the House Of Blues, don't let it happen the next time the band hits town. For you see, Burning Spear's leader/songwriter/vocalist/prophet Winston Rodney just happens to be the most enduring and prolific performer in the history of reggae. With more than three decades of music-making under his brightly-colored belt, Rodney has been spreading his special brand of Rasta gospel the world over. Lyrically, Rodney often memorializes back-to-Africa Jamaican idealist Marcus Garvey, and preaches the highest standards in all spiritual matters. Besides his righteous folk message and willingness to address political issues, Rodney also fronts a particularly potent band that's equal to Bob Marley's Wailers at their riddum-filled peak. On their latest album, "Calling Rastafari," Burning Spear churn out eleven roots-rock-reggae anthems with earnest confidence and humble enthusiasm. On danceable songs like 'Brighten My Vision," Winston Rodney implores his lord Jah to help him become the most clear-eyed disciple he can be. With his limber rhythm crew shoring up the bottom end and a buoyant horn section riding on top, Rodney croons his conscious communiqués in a warm voice that is both celebratory and wise. His experienced island perspective walks the very fine line between rural idealism and urban sophistication. Rising above the moral slackness often espoused in current Jamaican music, Burning Spear has put out the best reggae album of the year, again. Jah! Ratafari.
by Mitch Myers
copyright 1999 New City Communications, Inc.