STYLE: Reggae RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 8595-8330 LABEL: Lion Of Zion 26297132721 FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1 RRP: £10.99
Reviewed by Tony Cummings
Tonga gospel reggae rules! Knowing nothing about the music of the South Pacific island this debut by three Tongan musos, David Fohe (vocals, keys), Jubilee Fohe (vocals, drums, DJ) and Joel Roberts (vocals) is a revelation. For their oozingly soulful harmonies over billowy percussive reggae tracks conceived by producers Quino (Big Mountain) and Mark Mohr (Christafari) make for one of the finest reggae albums ever. Even when the lyrics are stereotypical (as on “No One Else”) the sheer passion of the singing and belchingly booming bass sweeps the listener along. Particularly outstanding is “Babylon System” with its raga chorus assuring us the guys will “never bow down to no Babylon system” and “Superstar” opener which is a near perfect pop reggae concoction. They pronounce their name “ee-mee-see”. Remember it. You’ll surely be hearing it again.
The opinions expressed in this article are
not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed
views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may
not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a
later date.
Interested in reviewing music? Find out
more here.
This track data is supplied by the Cross Rhythms CD/DVD review library. Please note that CD tracks may vary
according to release region or product version.