Ras Attitude & Akae Beka.... PROBLEMS!

I'm going to PRESUME that Ras Attitude and Akae Beka have appeared together on the same song at some point prior to now... but I'm not completely sure about that. I am certain, however, that their combination for Partii Animalz Global, 'Light Up', is one GORGEOUS ganja tune. I'm also going to predict that an album from Ras Attitude (from someone) is forthcoming. Just thought you should know... now perhaps you can listen a little keener. BOOM!

Catching Up With Ras Attitude

Okay so, I've been meaning to do something here as he's been doing a lot of nice work as of late, so I thought that we'd take a quick look in on a trio (two minutes ago it was two songs but I just decided to add another one, just because) of relatively fresh and impressive releases from the monstrous talent that is Ras Attitude. HOPEFULLY this is leading to an album of some sort, but even if it is not, there's always room for tracks that sound like THIS.

'They Got A Box' featuring Lutan Fyah [Rebellion City Productions]

Back in April, Rebellion City Productions dropped their GORGEOUS Bongo Rockers Riddim which featured works from the likes of Chezidek, Imeru Tafari, Turbulence and even a combination featuring Pressure Busspipe alongside Bescenta. Also present on the riddim were the Sound Vizion family, Ras Batch [!] and Ras Attitude. The former was joined by some of the up and coming artists from the label  for 'Chanting', while the latter once again links up with the brilliant Lutan Fyah for the excellent 'They Got A Box'. I don't know if these two could make a bad tune if they went into the studio and tried to and that is clearly not what happened here. Big tune on a big riddim, definitely worth checking out. Take a listen.

'I Grade' featuring Skunk Dojo [Skunk Dojo]

Attitude was also joined by Skunk Dojo, from out of Argentina, for 'I Grade' (now wouldn't it be SO nice if Ras Attitude made AN ALBUM FOR I GRADE RECORDS??!) (have been wanting that for years) which is exactly what you think it is. The surprise on this one comes from SD's part where we get a bite of Spanish mixed into the vibes - a bilingual ganja tune! The riddim is absolutely towering (it's even better than the next one I'm going to tell you about) as well and I could just listen to that thing play on and on for hours. See how much you like it.

'No Holding Back' [Venjahanze Music]

On the best tune out of the three, 'No Holding Back', Ras Attitude links up with Venjahanze Music (that is a VERY impressive way to spell vengeance) from out of Canada (I THINK). This song is a very basic and broad social commentary with a spiritual footing and there's nothing wrong it that, ESPECIALLY when you put a riddim like this one behind it. I don't know what it's called, if it even has a name or if it's been voiced by anyone else but the track supporting 'No Holding Back' is a brick of gold. It is so damn cool! Attitude plays atop it, going in several directions but never too hard but what results is one sweet tune and probably the single best that I've heard from the chanter in quite some time.

"Jah hear the nation cry: VENGEANCE IS MINE"

Who even remembers when the last time Ras Attitude released an album off the top of their head?? I THINK it was 2020 ["Warrior Status"] but I am going to presume that one is forthcoming. He's been very active as of late and I would think that the Cruzan chanter is building towards something big. HOPEFULLY that's the case because it's been entirely too damn long. Still, even if it isn't, there's no time like now to get caught up with the output of one of Reggae music's most compelling current talent and a longtime favourite of ours.

Pressure Busspipe & Ras Attitude Know Real!

Okay so, a big credit and full respect goes to IzaYoung Boy Production (who we have come across previously in working with the great Reemah), for bringing together two of THE biggest talents in all of Reggae music, particularly from out of the USVI as Pressure Busspipe & Ras Attitude link up to tell us all that 'Real Know Real'. I could be wrong totally, but the only previous musical union between the two came about fifteen years ago courtesy of the incomparable Ras Batch on 'Wicked World' for his "Vizionary" album ["You can get shaken by the earthquake and shocked by the lightning, so stop all the fighting"], but this is the very first time to my knowledge that it has just been the two of them (biggup Ras Batch). As you would expect, the results are absolutely delightful and no less than top notch. Enjoy and have a great weekend! 

Warrior Status by Ras Attitude

"Warrior Status" by Ras Attitude [Boondox Records & Partii Animalz Entertainment - 2020]

Today, if all goes according to plan (and it won't), we're attempting to begin the loooooooong road of covering some of the more interesting releases that we've missed during our absence and we're starting with an always compelling subject. Ras Attitude is someone who I have always felt has had such a large amount of potential and it is something which he had demonstrated throughout the years during his development as an artist. From his nascence, making music alongside the venerable Ras Batch (who we'll also be looking at pretty soon hopefully) and Sound V.I.Zion Records, the St. Croix chanter has, for me, proven himself to be not only amongst the most gifted artists from out of the Virgin Islands, but in all of Reggae music when at his absolute strongest.

He'd also, thankfully, enjoyed a fine stretch of activity. Following the release of his first album, 2000's "Happiness" (which was once very difficult to find, but is now readily available digitally), Attitude would go on to push seven albums in just a dozen years or so. By virtually any comparisons not named Vaughn Benjamin (who could do that in a healthy couple of years), averaging better than an album every other year works just fine. Probably his most well known set, "Trodding Home", arrived in 2007. While his finest effort, in my opinion, remains "I-Meditation", from a couple of years later. There would also be "Hold The Vibes", which has kind of gone forgotten (not surprising, because in its day it was also kind of hard to find, as was a Lutan Fyah album from the same label, released at the same time, I believe) (and that album, "Truly", was special. It was absolutely fantastic) (and Chezidek actually had a release called "Freedom Fighters" from the same imprint, which you just aren't likely to recall) (and that one was probably the most well known of the trio if I recall correctly). But.... that was 2012. It would take a perplexingly protracted EIGHT YEARS before Ras Attitude would arrive with album #8, "Warrior Status". This project, presumably, finds him taking matters in his own hands as it comes via Boondox Records, which I am certain is his own label, in association with Partii Animalz Entertainment. I thank them both for materializing this one late last year, but I would have taken it from anyone by that point. So was it any good? Let's see.

{Note: Told myself this intro would be short..... I have issues}

1. 'Don't U Dare'

The very first thing that I want to say about the album's opener, 'Don't U Dare', is about its very own opening. Whether done intentionally or as something which arrived organically, the kind of 'checking' which is the start of this song and thus, the entire album, is just a very nice touch. Ras Attitude makes sure we're all ready to go and we begin.

As for the actual song, it is a definite highlight here as well. Somewhat of a more complex praising piece is 'Don't U Dare', as Attitude warns all never to go against the teachings and the will of His Majesty. I call it "complex" not because of some strange type of sound or deviation of any type, musically, but if you REALLY join in on this one fully, Attitude REALLY takes you to some very interesting locations, lyrically.

"Now they become fools and characters
Psychopathical monsters and zombies, not to mention vampires
Trying to suck out wi energy
But the powers that guide I and protect me -
Keepeth those evil vibes from around me"

"Jah powers manifest to be strongah
Then any witchcraft or poisonous potions from the sorcerah
They could never conquer The Conquerah
King of Kings: The Higher Power
You know not the minute and know not the hour
Inna yah owna judgment you get devoured
And get caught inna di rapture
Inna bad vibes you don't get captured, don't get captured"

2. 'Green Gold Rush'

'Green Gold Rush' came through with a very familiar vibes and when I looked it up, I traced it to the Kif Kif Riddim, from West Coast Studios (more on them in a minute), a few years back. It was just an excellent, EXCELLENT composition and though it didn't carry so many pieces, it did support solid ones from the likes of Perfect, Arkaingelle, Ras Indio and others. For his part, Attitude put the Kif Kif to work behind the first of a trio of strong ganja tunes on "Warrior Status". This one, in particular, focuses almost entirely on the remedying and natural purposes of the herb. It is extremely well written as well and while this may be the type of track which attracts an amount of attention because of its subject, it is downright sagacious at times at very clever.

"They assume when doctor give dem pills, its gonna better for dem health
They are only being dishonest  to themself
TAKE A LOOK, LIKKLE MORE, DEM SI DEM INSIDES AH MELT
Cuz dem strung out pon pharmaceutical help
Natural thing, in through my lungs, then to my brain
No doubt about this indica strain
Di herbs yah keep I sane
And di herbs grandpa draw fi, when him feel pain"

3. 'The Rain'

Just like the song preceding it here, 'The Rain' is a production of West Coast Studios from out of Morocco. I was well familiar with this one, I'm certain we covered it at some point and, if I'm remembering accurately, it did quite well for Ras Attitude, it was very popular in its time. Take a listen to it and it is no mystery as to why it found an audience. For their portion, WCS once again delivers a golden riddim. There is a very nice old school spice to this one which gives it this LARGE vibe but not one which is overbearing at any point. It is golden to my ears and the chanter doesn't allow it to spoil. Instead, he spreads love to any and every where he can reach. And the the approach is also nice. Ras Attitude can SING. He can't 'for the type of music he makes' or some other type of genre-limiting phrase. The man can just sing! He could sing, Gospel, R&B or whatever you need (probably got it from his Mother). When he chooses to use it and push it just a bit, it is wonderful, 'The Rain' is about as sterling of an example of that.

4. 'Please Mr. Police'

New World Sounds takes the credit for production on 'Please Mr. Police', the second of the aforementioned trinity of ganja songs on 'Warrior Status' and another song which touched me as a bit familiar when I initially heard it on this set. Where 'Green Gold Rush' dealt more with the herb's medicinal purpose and structure, this tune goes more on looking at the stigma attached to it and the plight ones often go through in pursuing it. Again, it has a very nice, horn-heavy (LOVE horns, always have, whether I realized it or not) old school colour to it and Attitude ultimately plays right into it lyrically in a very nice touch later on during the selection.

5. 'Current Situation'

And then there is the BOOM! To my opinion it is the Rally Up Music vibed immaculate social commentary, 'Current Situation', which provides "Warrior Status" with its crowning moment. When I first listened to it on the album I found myself singing the chorus, it was well known to my ears and it made me smile because it'd definitely been awhile from the last time I'd heard it. What I was missing out on was a MASSIVE and stinging set which this album reignited for me.

"Dem cancerous to di children of Afrika
No weapons that they form shall prospah
You corporate monsters, wall Street slave masters
This is our current situation-
All I know, all I know
This is our current situation"

6. 'Quidamawi' featuring Qshan Deya'

This release comes armed with a very strong pair of combinations as well with a duo which make fine appearances - which is exactly what you'd expect from two singers of their calibers, respectively. The first is the 'Volcano Trumpet', big voiced Vincentian Qshan Deya who thrills on 'Quidamawi' alongside Attitude. We're always happy to see Deya on any project (and he has a new single out this year, 'Smile', which is, reportedly, the first from his own forthcoming album. BOOM!) but had you told me, in any instance, that Qshan Deya and Ras Attitude were making music together, I'd be something more than interested. They do not disappoint (they couldn't if they tried) (they could link up and make a Calypso song and it would work, somehow, someway). 'Quidamawi' actually quite reminded me of another Ras Attitude combination, that one featuring the wonderful Malika Madremana, 'Jah Lives'. And just like that track, here we find another fittingly giant amount of praise poured in the direction of His Imperial Majesty. I also want to mention briefly (can I do anything "briefly"? Anything at all???) as another testament to Ras Attitude's vocals: Qshan Deya can sing anything. His POWERFUL and CLEAR voice is one of the finest in modern Roots Reggae music and Attitude is not lost or drowned out here. He more than holds his own and together, the two produce magic.

7. 'Read Up Ur Bible'

I'm sure I've heard lyrics like those found on 'Read Up Ur Bible' in other songs in Reggae music and probably other genres as well. Taking it in broadly, it's about the importance and value of education, particularly that of younger people. But, specifically, I do not know that I've heard an entire tune about on the topic.

"Read up your bible youthman
Stay out of trouble and be humble, know Jah Jah plan
From the Old Testament to the New one
It's easy, we can make reading fun"

The artist goes on to deliver parts of the Bible in a way that would be attractive and entertaining to younger people, lyrically. Again, it isn't something that is out of place in this genre, AT ALL, but the way in which it is structured is very refreshing as he combines themes of education, as I said, as well as a more natural type of maturation and foresight (he did a similar thing on an exquisite track called 'Shedrach, Meshach, Abednego' many years ago, as far as telling a story and teaching).

8. 'Warrior Status'

It almost seems as if when he recorded it, that Ras Attitude had it in his mind that he was going to try to make an entire album named after 'Warrior Status'. From the very first second that it makes any type of sound at all, it demands your attention and it holds you throughout its duration. This one, as you suspected, is a MIGHTY call to action, as well as a call of PRIDE and finding value in one's heritage.

"Red, Gold and Green man ah fly
Tell di wicked man dem step outside

Mi si wah dem do, hear wah dem do but dem caan come try that with I & I"

But the biggest star on this tune, as I said (or at least tried to), is just the general PASSION which flows from the title track (I hear a really cool Capleton-esque lyrical twist late on in this one). If you just listen to this album straight through, it may be THE song you walk away with stuck in your head because of its REACH and that's a good thing.

9. 'African Walk'

I believe that 'African Walk' is the latest single from "Warrior Status". It's also the clear changeup here. I hear Hip-Hop, I hear.... I think you call that Drum & Bass and just a variety of different musical flavours, which is a well-welcomed addition to the vibes here. I've come to expect songs like this which really help on an album, in my opinion. Even if they don't stick as personal favourites for you, what they do is show a definite versatility and, as clear as day, Attitude can rank highly in quite a few different styles. Lyrically, 'African Walk' actually chases the title track nicely as both as just effuse pride and LOVE in Africa and Africans.

10. 'Jah Jah Love' featuring Army

DAMN! Along with linking up with the not extremely active Qshan Deya on 'Quidamawi', 'Jah Jah Love' finds Ras Attitude alongside the downright musically reclusive Army. The world instantly becomes a better place the SECOND Army makes a new song and you just as immediately become a better human being (or a better house plant, cat, dog, snail, whatever you may be). Although he never gives us quite enough, the vocalist ALWAYS makes the most of his output and this combination is no different. The two veterans produce exactly what you knew they would as this gorgeous praising piece glows from beginning to end and registers amongst the very best songs to be found here (and here is where I would ask for more from Army, but it won't work so I'm not going to do that) (or did I just do that????).

"The Most High Love is great
Cause offa ya shoulda The Emperor lift alla di weight
And up a Zion Gates, love is the order of the day!
Oh mighty Jah, You keep me strong, and on and on, I put my trust in You
No matta what they say, no matta what they do, no matta what they try-
RASTA PROTECTED BY THE MOST HIGH
The heathen-"

"Caught up in the game of waiting
With time fading fast
With  governments demonstrating -
They would never last
Think they woulda always linger?
Sit around and point the finger?
No way, no way, no way, NO WAY"

11. 'Paradise'

Wayyyyyy back in 2010 we reviewed an album by an artist named Naptali, called "Long Journey" which was produced by the soon-to-be sizzlingly reliable Oneness Records from out of Germany. It would go on to be our album of the year for that year and is still amongst the very best albums I have ever heard from anyone, EVER. I love that album. I mention it here because Ras Attitude's 'Paradise', straight away, had me sailing back eleven years to a tune from that wonderful album, "Seven Miles", which featured Luciano.

"Marcus Garvey, a Black Man, prophesized to the nation when he asked:
Where is the Black man's government?"

It gave me a push to go and have a listen throughout the total album and it had been an unfortunately long time since I had heard some of those songs ('REDEEMER'! DAMN!). The riddim itself was such a nice and serene vibes so for it to play background for a tune called 'Paradise' is very apropos.

Attitude's idea of finding his paradise comes in the form of doing things which are pleasing to His Majesty and enjoying the blessings he receives. I was so happy that this song sounded as it did because it kind of makes a grander PRESENTATION of the idea. So many times I get stuck on grinding down lyrics (and I will continue to do that, I enjoy it) (I'm not complaining), but on a piece like this, which has a very free vibes, you really get the feel that the notion was, along with making a song, to really demonstrate the message: Live an upful life and feel like this (and I wouldn't be at all surprised if 'Paradise' was a kind of natural development and had very little pre-planning. It has a  very free type of sound which makes it seem more spontaneous, at least in my opinion).

12. 'Cross the River'

Ras Attitude almost seems to channel the great Joseph Hill vocally on the outstanding 'Cross the River' late on this album. The chorus on this track might just be the finest and most hypnotic of its type that you'll find altogether here:

"Cross the river
I see Ethiopia
Cross the river
I see Mama Afrika
Cross the river
I see Dada Selassie
Cross the river
I'm not imagining things
Cross the river
I see Black people there
Cross the river
Oh yes, my family's there
Cross the river
Everyone is there!
Cross the river
Across the river"

And the balance of it is just as strong. I guess I could say that it sort of snuck up on me. I was, for whatever reason, not expecting 'Cross the River' to be what it turned out to be. It is MAMMOTH on both lyrical and musical levels which link and..... ultimately had me rethinking my selection of the best song on "Warrior Status". I love the final bits which turn up the musical intensity and you really get a SWEET big vibes. And, like I alluded to, it sounds like something you'd find in Culture's catalogue where it would also sit as a highlight even in that legendary vault.

13. 'Most High Protect I'

I was well acquainted with 'Most High Protect I' by the time we arrived here as it was a previous single of Attitude's (thinking about it now: It probably was a single, specifically, for this album) and it well fits the vibes here. As its title suggests, 'Most High Protect I' is a praising composition and it GLOWS! There is just such a vivid and colourful feeling about this one which, despite the fact that if you're reading this much of a review you've probably heard hundreds of songs like it (literally), gives is a volume and substance which will make it stay with you. It also helps that the chanter is as fine of form as he is at any point on "Warrior Status". And pay a special attention to the second verse (one of the strongest on the entire release in my opinion) where Attitude applies a nearly wholly tangible perspective to this most special form of protection. MASSIVE!

14. 'Willow Tree'

If you should still hold some form of reservations regarding Ras Attitude's singing voice (shame on you for having bad taste), those will all likely be eradicated (or they probably won't considering the fact that you've held on to them for this long) with his acoustic cover of 'Willow Tree'. I believe the tune was originally sang by the late and great Alton Ellis and Attitude more than does it justice on an offering which just might bring a tear to your eyes if you REALLY tune it in.

15. 'Marijuana [We Ah Bun]'

And finally is the third of the 'ganja trinity' of "Warrior Status", the very entertaining and old school licked 'Marijuana [We Ah Bun]'. Once again you hear healthy doses and doses of legendary Culture frontman, Joseph Hill on a tune which is just so lovely CHILLED and equal parts poignant and FREE. It doesn't sound like much was planned with this one and, as I think I said on a previous song - it really has a very ORGANIC vibes to it which is an excellent note to end things on.

I think the only real criticism I can lay on Ras Attitude's "Warrior Status" is that it seems as if the album probably spent a bit more time than expected in the gestation period. While it released in November of 2020, it would seem that its 'prime' may've been.... maybe late 2016/early 2017-ish? I'd remembered  covering 'The Rain' prior to our long break and that song actually dates back to 2013 originally and some of the other selections here were heavily promoted as well (several of them had videos produced as well), so I would just guess that, perhaps, this album realized later than expected and anticipated.

With that being said, however, just judging it musically, "Warrior Status" actually stacks up quite favourably and does even when compared to Attitude's prior output. Doing something like this presents a wonderful opportunity to go back and REALLY dig into some of his prior work and, really, the only album that I think clearly outpaces this one is the "I-Mediation" set which remains my favourite from the artist. Apart from that, "Warrior Status" is as good as we've seen from Ras Attitude to date, which is saying a great deal. It stands as a project bathed in what should be regarded as one of the most PROFICIENT of talents in modern Roots Reggae. At the zenith of his powers, that is what this artist is, this latest release being a mighty example of that.

I also just wanted to kind of place his entire career in focus, now that we've had a look back (the album review is over, I just felt like adding this little bit). Ras Attitude has been making ALBUMS for TWENTY YEARS. He has probably been making music and singing, in some form or another, since he could speak - but he has making full blown albums for twenty years now. That is absolutely remarkable when you think about it and it is my belief that he has had a significant impact, if on nothing or no one else but myself. I thoroughly enjoyed writing this, even if it took me too long (I'm old and crazy now, please forgive me), because it cracked open what has to be one of the healthiest VAULTS in my own personal history as a listener of music. If you've missed anything along the way, virtually all of his music is readily available digitally. You should take a listen. You will not be sorry that you did.

Most Wanted: 2015

When it comes to albums, 2015 will have some serious work to do if it is at all to serve as a proper chaser to the monster that has been 2014. Along with the overall quality of the releases we have seen, we also have had a downright staggering range of variety and levels of names as well. In simple terms: In any given year where we can get three albums from Sizzla Kalonji, at least three from Midnite and a major release from Bunji Garlin (…and two from Pressure Busspipe) (…and an Etana album) (…and one from Tarrus Riley) (…and Bugle's debut album) (…and I-Octane returned too) (…and I think there was someone named Sara Lugo!) there exists the high potential for something very special which is EXACTLY what we saw this year and are still seeing. So, although it will be a massive act to follow, we still look ahead to what next year will bring and, obviously, we have a few ideas as to what might make it another tremendously impressive run. Thus, we submit for your approval (or disapproval - I don't care) ten people who we'd really like to hear from next year. Most Wanted: 2015

{Note: Intentionally excluded were everyone from last year's list and anyone already scheduled or 'tentatively' scheduled to have albums}

Most Wanted: 2014

#10. Reemah

Though she appears at #10 on this list, if ALL of these albums were actually to arrive in 2015 (and they all won't, 2-3 of them will), I wouldn't at all be surprised if Reemah's was of the highest quality. She actually appears here more as a precaution as I'm still finding new and interesting things about her MAMMOTH debut, 2012's "Check Your Words" to enjoy, so I have not begun to experience a Reemah- withdrawal. HOWEVER, if you look at some her peers - female artists from out of the VI - the track-record of inactivity is distressing. Names such as Dezarie, Mada Nile, Nubian Natty, Lady Passion and so many others, while they may remain active performing, do not seem to release very much in the way of new music consistently and I would HATE such a fate to await Reemah. 2015 might not be the year for a new album (though it may) but, in any case, I'm hoping that she is more present and continues to display what may just be, already, one of the sharpest pens in all of Reggae music. 

#9. Ras Attitude

King me! Because their work has been so damn impressive, it is beginning to become one of my most anticipated occurrences in Reggae music to see just who, exactly, the Zion I Kings collective might turn their attention to next and, as always I have a favourite of who I'd like to see that be (along with Jahdan Blakkamoore, NiyoRah, of course Lutan Fyah and a female artist). This time I'm going with Ras Attitude with good reason. Though it hasn't been a very long time from last we heard from the ridiculously gifted Cruzan chanter - it does kind of seem like it has. His last album was 2012's solid "Hold The Vibes" which, predictably, has vanished (because… no one really knew it existed) and it seems like a perfect time for a next BIG project to emerge from Attitude. In 2014, I Grade Records (the "I" in Zion I Kings) fulfilled what seemed to be a most obvious link in the making when they released the DEVASTATING "The Sound" from Pressure Busspipe another one would surely be the first full Ras Attitude/IGR project. I'm almost certain that it will happen at some point but damn it would look SO nice in 2015!

#8. Skinny Fabulous

If there were any chance -- any at all -- that Skinny Fabulous might release an album next year (or the one after that or the one after that or the one after that) he would surely be considerably higher on a list like this, much like who is likely to be the next entrant here. But we all know that the chances of him doing that are virtually non-existent. And that's too bad for a project which was rumoured (if I recall correctly) (and I never do) way back as early as 2009-10. Since then, Skinny's star has not only gotten brighter but, in my opinion, so have his skills and today the Vincy star exists as one of the most talented and CONSISTENT figures in all of Soca music. He scored mightily in 2014 with 'Behaving The Worst [BTW]' which was a little different from his previous destructive hits (so is 'Like No Tomorrow', check it out), but regardless of the style, he does that every year. You would assume that EVENTUALLY he would release an album and, should he wait just a few more years, you may end up with a project brimming with Soca Monarch and Road March winning tunes. Until then (and even after then), Skinny Fabulous remains someone who you cannot afford to NOT pay attention to.  

#7. Lady Sweety

I know what you're thinking and you're right to think it. In regards to the amount of music that she does, I probably pay too much attention to Lady Sweety and you're probably right but, like I said, I don't care! To my opinion, Sweety's voice is the feminine side to blindingly talented stars such as Tiwony and Admiral T and Saïk, to whom she is every bit as talented. And, year after year, despite the fact that she named her next album, years ago, and released a single for it, we're still waiting and we'll keep waiting if we have to (and we will). It is worth mentioning, however, that the Gwada ace did give us a taste earlier this year when she did a big tune, the heavy 'Parle Moi' (which might be a good picture to go here for her) (biggup Bredz). No, it's not an album and, yes, it was back in April or so but as a STARVING fan of Lady Sweety's it's been significantly more than we've usually gotten for the last few years. 

#6. Patrice Roberts

If you haven't been paying attention (shame on you), long-time Achis Reggae favourite, Trini Soca highlight Patrice Roberts has gotten REALLY good over the last few years and the ever-present eventuality of a new album from her (which would be her third to date) is something I also very much look forward to every year. Currently riding high with 'Soca Wedding' alongside Zan, Roberts has, perhaps quietly, become someone making some of the best music in the genre and this is past the days where she was boosted every year by virtue of having a guaranteed hit with Machel Montano. She's certainly had help, but she's done it largely on her own as her abilities have progressed. And this is also worth mentioning because we have eyes, but Patrice Roberts has put on a little VERY FITTING weight and, these days, she looks incredible… almost as good as she sounds and hearing it on another full album, stocked with GIANT songs, would be a joy!  

#5. Damian Marley

A few years ago, Damian Marley's name topped an edition of this list and, again, he's another person who would be higher here if I thought the likelihood of an album manifesting was higher - but I do not. 2015 will make it a DECADE from Mr. Marley's most recent solo album, "Welcome To Jamrock", which is an astonishing fact! Still, the youngest Marley brother remains, arguably, the most popular living Reggae artist and a new Reggae album from him would be so nice for so many reasons. Will it happen in 2015??? Probably not but I'm usually wrong and I hope I am here.  

#4. Fay-Ann Lyons

Though I am slightly more sure about #2 on this list, I am rather confident that, at some point during the twelve months of 2015, we will FINALLY have a new album from long time Soca superstar Fay-Ann Lyons. Earlier in 2014 the newly branded 'Azu Sefu', followed her husband, Bunji Garlin, in signing with VP Records and, as the label figures to continue to focus on Soca music in the new year, Lyons' name should be a pillar within that push. Also, I recently read that in the works was not only ONE album but a pair which would feature the Silver Surfer within both Soca and Pop platforms. She can do either without a problem but a Soca album from, easily, one of the genre's most successful and vivid practitioners EVER should be golden! I think we'll get it in 2015 and I cannot wait! BOOM!  

#3. Busy Signal

In 2012, Dancehall ace, Busy Signal, released an album which would prove not only to be his greatest to date, but also the greatest from anyone in the genre during what  was a sensational year. "Reggae Music Again" was somewhat unexpected in its style but not in its quality and even the fact that it was unexpected wasn't unexpected. Busy Signal has become one of the most unpredictable figures in the entire history of Dancehall music - you just never know what he is going to from track to track and, on a next album, I have no idea what would come. I would like to find out in 2015, however, and when looking around for big names who might be up to the task next year, surely Busy would make perfect sense. Coming off of what was a very impressive year, musically, from the DJ - another giant album would seem to reaching at a very appropriate time and should he reach the levels of his previous release (or somehow manage to outdo himself)… it would be the latest in a career full of surprises. Expectations be damned! 

#2. Spice

I love Busy Signal. I love Agent Sasco. I'm very fond of the music of a few other people (okay maybe not "a few", but one or two) but I have to admit that, in my opinion, NO ONE is making better Dancehall music than Spice is these days and I think that one of the greatest gifts that 2015 WILL give us is an album which will may just be one of the greatest Dancehall sets from a female that we have EVER heard. Spice has that type of potential and she has now displayed it for years. Along with her qualities, if it is possible (and obviously it is) her profile has seemingly raised throughout the years as well, including in 2014 and such a release may even attract the always coveted 'mainstream attention' (if they're smart it will). She has scored hits and hits and hits and has done so in a variety of different ways all, however, steered by a level of determination and SKILL which provides her with very little in the way of actual peers in Dancehall music. Recently (yesterday) VP Records released "So Mi Like It", Spice's debut EP and they don't tend to do such things (on VP RECORDS, NOT VPAL) without a bigger plan ahead. THAT should be a full album which we should be able to count on receiving in 2015. FINALLY! 

#1. Kabaka Pyramid

Read a couple chapters. Kabaka Pyramid beat the great Chronixx to it in releasing an expanded EP and… not actually calling it an album when, last year, he dealt "Lead The Way" which was ten tracks in length (and had a deluxe edition stretching it to 13). In 2015, what I am most looking forward to, that has a chance of happening, is for the shedding of the "EP" tag and a full-fledged album from one of the most remarkable new talents Reggae has produced in a VERY long time. If you read my work to any degree, you know just how much I respect the power of the spoken word and individuals who are capable of demonstrating that talent to music have my undying attention. Kabaka Pyramid is now one of those people and I FULLY place him in current categories alongside names such as Sizzla Kalonji, Lutan Fyah, Midnite, Jah9 and others (her name is Reemah!) who you HAVE to focus on EVERY word. And I'm not the only one, fortunately. Kabaka Pyramid's profile has also been on the rise and I think that, at some point during the next twelve months (thirteen, technically), demand will meet opportunity and Kabaka Pyramid will make a giant play for album of the year when he releases his 'official' debut set. 

Rewind!: "Holding Firm" by Ras Attitude

"Holding Firm" by Ras Attitude [Zion High Productions]

Much like an album from his good friend, producer and oft-collaborator, Ras Batch (more on him in a minute), Ras Attitude has had an album in his career which took its slow time to do so, but eventually wore me down and took hold of my attention. Back in 2005, the aforementioned Batch would release an album in, "Jah Guidance", which I would think okay, but really only register because many of the compositions on it were sublime, but as an album… I just didn't think much of it. A few years later that had changed completely and now, I regard it as one of the single finest albums that I have ever heard. Most coincidentally, that very same year Ras Attitude was at work on releasing his own project, via Zion High Productions, which would, years later, also awake and activate in my mind and although I don't know that I'll ever come around to regarding it as highly as "Jah Guidance", I wouldn't at all be surprised. If/When that occurs, I'll gladly come back and write a 'Modern Classic' feature for it, but until then, we still go back and have a look and a listen to an album whose quality, at least for me, was wonderfully time delayed and REWIND! "Holding Firm" by Ras Attitude

1. 'Why?'

It is that familiar blaring organ sound on 'Why' which signals in my mind that we're dealing with the "Holding Firm" album (which is most interesting that I immediately associate it with this album and then this song, in particular). The opener was a very straight forward, yet GLOWING, social commentary. I can recall when I initially kind of began to change my mind on this record and how I began to take a 'slower' appreciation of it and it started with this song. What was once kind of boring and uninteresting started to light up for me and it hasn't dimmed even a bit these days.

2. 'Wrath of Jah' featuring Batch

Anytime you can link together Batch and Attitude, you're potentially working with something special and, off the top of my head, I cannot come up with a moment where they would have failed (most recently they did a bit tune, 'Vampire Slayer', for West Coast Studios) (in stores now). Here, I guess I can call 'Wrath of Jah' a 'spiritual commentary' as the duo push a track which reminds that when you live nasty, there is nowhere you can hide from His Majesty. BOOM!

"How dare you - diss The Conquering Lion?

How dare you - build your planes and drop your bombs?

How dare you - try stop marijuana from bun?

How dare you - punish the youths with all starvation?

How dare you -  stop the movement of repatriation?

Just beg Jah mercy for your sanctification 

Rastafari shall ease di nation

Rastafari is I occupation!" 

3. 'Where Did They Come From?'

Next Attitude is wondering exactly 'Where Did They Come From'. The "they" of note in this case would be those who stand in the way in Rastafari and, by extension, righteousness in general.

"Where did they come from - trying to fight Rasta down?

A who fah name dem ah call pon?

Must be ______

Where did they come from - trying to fight Rasta down?

Who fah name dem ah call pon?

Caah be The Almighty One

Dem ah fight Rasta!

When they, themselves, don't even know dem ah fight di Rastaman fa

Dem no research di natural way of life

Dem listen to the media!

Just because you don't love life, don't bring dem dutty vibes bout ya

SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF HIS MAJESTY WILL ALWAYS CONQUER!"

This piece has a very nice aggressive 'shine' to it and it isn't one which kind of hides. But, simultaneously, it isn't the kind of 'fire blazing everything' type of approach. Instead, Attitude burns an INTELLECTUAL flame, although I do not know if those for whom it is intended are smart enough to comprehend.

4. 'Let Jah Be Praised'

For as long as I have had an opinion on the matter, 'Let Jah Be Praised' has been my favourite song on "Holding Firm". HOWEVER… no… no it still is.

"Let Jah be praised -

For the rest of your life

Let Jah be praised -

In the morning when you open up your eyes

Let Jah be praised -

PRAISE JAH AND EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE

Let Jah be praised -

Jah is the only way out in dis ya time

Cause HE is the Lily of the Valley

And HE is the bright morning star

You've got, to give up everything to Jah and keep the faith in HIM too

You've got, to clean your physical, and mental and spiritual vibes too

Know and see the blessings Jah has given unto you

With every breath that I take, I know His Majesty is powerful

I have faith in my God, only HIM will get me through

I trust in thee, oh Lord, there's no other that's greater than you

Let Jah be praised -

For the rest of your life

Let Jah be praised -

In the morning when you open up your eyes

Let Jah be praised -

PRAISE JAH AND EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE

Let Jah be praised -

Jah is the only way out in dis ya time

Cause HE blessed me with HIS mercy

I thank you, Jah, for giving me the breath of life!

Judge me, oh Lord, and ah bless me so I shall not slide

In the grace of Jah love and kindness, I will abide

What a joy!

What a joy!

What a joy!

For the miracle HE's done for I

The King of Kings shall be praised, worshipped and glorified!

Praise HIM and fear HIM

HE's The Most High

Elect of HIMself, so we hail HIM:

King Selassie I"

There is giving 'thanks and praise' on a song and then there is a song like this, which takes the generic approach and tactfully disarms and then rebuilds it. It remains, in my opinion, not only the finest moment of this album, but easily one of the best of Attitude's entire impressive career. TEARS!

5. 'See My Point'

The very clever 'See My Point' is the obligatory ganja tune on "Holding Firm" and it was a good one. This song has always sounded like kind of an 'expanded' freestyle to my ears. He may've written it, but what he wrote was more of an approach and then he kind of followed the formula, rather than the words. Altogether, however, the song is a big testament to the lyrical and approach dexterity of Ras Attitude [reason #11,362,783 to like this man's music].

6. 'Bad Bwoy'

I may be the only one in the world who, upon hearing the riddim on 'Bad Bwoy' IMMEDIATELY begins to sing the MASSIVE 'Nothing To Prove' by NiyoRah. The tunes share a riddim and while Niyo's version is already a certified modern classic, Attitude's tune is also quite strong. This is somewhat of social commentary, but it is one which is pointed at the individual. Instead of saying that 'society has done…', Attitude takes his ire to the actual people taking violence to the streets.

"Seh that dem a bad boy, but dem a bad boy fi no reason

If you a real rude boy, rude boy no terrorize poor people"

7. 'All We Need Is Love'

Although my mind is spinning over another tune from NiyoRah when 'All We Need Is Love' comes in (NiyoRah is one AMAZING artist) (so is Attitude), Attitude hits a level which is rare here. This song is GORGEOUS! If you listen to Reggae to any amount at all (especially enough to read a feature such as this), you're familiar with this type of song and well familiar actually, but this is one of the better pieces of its kind as Ras Attitude makes a plea to infuse a bit more LOVE throughout the world.

8. 'Smile On Your Face'

If the goal here was to make me angry and feel like breaking something, then 'Smile On Your Face' was an utter failure of a track. It's horrible! But if it was actually to… I don't know… put a smile on my face - it was a big, big success.

"Put a smile on your face - Kings, Queens and Princess

Put a smile on your face - little youths don't be depressed

Put a smile on your face - Jah bless with your royalness

Put a smile on your face - let's all live in happiness

No frowns!

Even when your up times go down

Happy people all around

Black or yellow, white or brown

From the east, west, north and south

There's lots of joy to share out

If you don't know then you must go find out

A SMILE A DAY RUN UGLY PEOPLE OUT!"

9. 'Life Of Love'

Definitely the biggest revelation of 'Life Of Love' is my newfound appreciation of just well SUNG this tune is. Attitude sounds nearly spectacular with his vocals, but it isn't the type of where the delivery immediately leaps out at you. However, years and years of hearing it has gotten me to the point where I am so appreciative of Attitude's ability to turn on the singing voice and spring an excellent song with it.

10. 'Holding Firm'

"Holding firm inna di gideon

Ready fi go trod up outta babylon

Holding firm inna di gideon

They tried their best but still can't stop the Rastaman"

'Holding Firm' is another big moment on the album named after it. Despite its title, which is very straight forward and not hard to decipher at all, the actual song is a bit complex and I mean that in a good way. From this tune I take so many different things, but I think that where I am with it today is the thought of not allowing negative influences to take too much control of your life - or a general level of control at all, really. While Attitude allows that you may have to endure some things and go through some things you don't want to and you know are bad for you, he presses all to stay the proverbial course and do EVERYTHING in their power to maintain themselves.

11. 'Ethiopian Eyes'

Ras Attitude takes time to pay a PILLARING level [BOOM!] of respect and tribute to Afrikan women everywhere on what is definitely a signature tune from the "Holding Firm" album. This song isn't necessarily one which I would refer to as a 'love song', although it certainly does have those type of elements, instead it really is more of a cultural one. In the most actual sense, you can't really show love to society, to spirituality and to a particular culture, without showing love to its nurturers and that is precisely what we have here.

12. 'Truths & Rights'

"As I stand before you, I seh Rasta!

And don't 'pologize

From I sight Rasta, I saw something special in my eyes

Rasta gave me the path to walk and then show me towards -

Jah Jah light!

I know Rasta is there to guide I

And show I & I wrong from right"

Things take a splendidly old school turn on the HUGE 'Truth & Rights', a song which really gets into the JOURNEY (and it is a journey) of Rastafari. It is likely a very personal track as Attitude describes how he came to walk the path in life and embrace it. It is a beautiful piece on that side, alone, but you also have to get into the delivery. Again, Ras Attitude shows a great singing voice on the almost Luciano-esque 'Truths & Rights'.

13. 'Without You' featuring Marcia Ball

Attitude linked veteran vocalist Marcia Ball for what is, directly, an actual love song. There is also something very 'old school cool' (biggup my Wife) about 'Without You' and the song still retains a kind of a duet quality, which is nice and I love when the genre makes room for someone like Ball to make songs. Though seemingly not very active at all, nearly every time you see her name, it guarantees a certain level of quality awaits.

14. 'Greetings'

'Greetings' is a tune which requires almost no explanation at all (but watch me try, anyway). One of the most dynamic compositions on the whole of this album, the tune is just Attitude giving a very direct praise to His Imperial Majesty. It is almost entirely a spiritual place and that hasn't changed throughout the years (and it never will). What has changed, however, is how I hear it. I don't remember this song sounding THIS good. Its arrangement makes for a very FUN moment on the album while simultaneously developing such a crucial message as well.

15. 'Pay The Cost' featuring Binghi Ites & Jakada

Binghi Ites and Jakada join Ras Attitude to stress the point that, eventually, someone will have to pay for the state of the world. While not a favourite of mine, I do have to say that something hear recently did grab my mind quite a bit:

"Somebody's gotta pay the cost

SO WHO'S GONNA BE THE BOSS?"

That second line in particular is very interesting because it is almost like Attitude gives the powers that be the opportunity to choose some type of a representative, but what I took from it was the notion that with great power comes a great responsibility. So, if you fight your way to the top, when the pile beneath comes tumbling down, your fall will make the greatest of impacts. And if you can't tell, yes, I am very much still working on this one… and enjoying it.

16. 'Olive Tree'

The closing piece of "Holding Firm", 'Olive Tree', has become a favourite of mine and I so much look at a song such as this one as being a selection which would not have done very much for me when this album was released (and I was 23-24), but is downright GOLDEN to my ears just a few years on. Yes, I'm getting old[er] and I hate it, but if it sounds this good, I probably shouldn't complain too much… yeah I'm going to keep complaining, but big tune still.

This is a completely evolving project for me. Each and every time I spin my way through this album, I'm fully expecting to either hear something that I didn't previously, at all, or to appreciate something that I hadn't been able to previously and, like I said, I still compare that range to the "Jah Guidance" album and, how perfect is it that those two artists have given me albums which continue to register in that same way. So, whatever I write about this (EVER), figures to be, at best, a report on the progress that it has made for me, but I wouldn't at all be surprised if, in a little while, it too is one of my favourite albums of all time. I don't know about that yet though, ask me again in a few years. Until them pick up one Ras Attitude's best releases, "Holding Firm" and hear for yourself.

Discography: Ras Attitude

Ras Attitude

It worked so well the first time, that I thought we'd bring it back. In observance of a big new album and just an all around supremely highlighted body of work, I thought that today it would be nice to get back into what hopefully will become a decent new running series for us around here (until I get tired of writing) and examine the work of the ultra-talented, potential Reggae superstar, Ras Attitude. The chanter from out of St. Croix has really become a staple on the entire scene of Reggae music, even reaching beyond the Virgin Islands, which certainly is an ever widening field. Really to any impartial critic or just a fan with adequately functioning listening devices attached at the sides of their heads, Ras Attitude has to be considered one of the most gifted artists of the current era, as well as someone clearly destined for an even more substantial form of greatness. With him having recently released his seventh studio album to date, "Hold the Vibes", we now take a look back at them all in Discography: Ras Attitude. 

The music of Ras Attitude

"Happiness" [Sound V.I.Zion Records - 2001]

Glorious. I'm always looking for a reason to get back into "Happiness" which was not only the debut album from Ras Attitude, but I think it was also the very first artist's album to appear on Sound V.I.Zion, the label of Attitude's good friend, producer and initiator of this series, Ras Batch. While it certainly wasn't his best piece of work, looking back, I'm coming around to the notion (one which I've been working on for the past couple of years or so) that it may've been a lot better than most people gave it credit for being and still do. With an album like this, it can be kind of difficult to discern such things because 'Ras Attitude's first album', whatever it was, has some type of inherent distinction, whether or not it was actually any good, so you many times you may not even get into its actual quality before lifting it up to some pedestal. Fortunately, however, this set had its share of strong moments and doesn't just as exist as some figurehead-ish type of a project. "Happiness" had a bit more Dancehall and Hip-Hop than you'd ever expect from Attitude looking back, but these days my personal standouts include 'Jah Trees', 'Who Mek Man', and the bookends, 'Back in the Hills' at the front and the still devastatingly gorgeous track, 'Glorious' which closed it up. 

"Love Life" [Sound V.I.Zion Records - 2004]

Mr. Goodwin. I'd like to think that Attitude's sophomore venture, "Love Life", has become one of his more well heard releases altogether, but surely that isn't accurate. For me, in several ways, while you may not see the Modern Classic write up one day, it's somewhat of a personal classic because of how IMMEDIATELY strong it was. This wasn't the type of an album, such as its successor, which took a great deal of concentration and thought to rectify its greatness, it was very upfront - either you liked it or you didn't.  Hearing it now, it sounds like a portal of sorts from the "Happiness" album to the rest of the artist's career. It had elements of that first record (a nice amount of Dancehall here as well) and it also featured bits and pieces (biggup Lutan Fyah), which would kind of illuminate throughout his career. It also had some really strong material. Batch, Mada Nile, Ambassada and others contribute to an album which featured tunes like 'Bun Dem' ["wi ah bun dem wid no apology. Rastafari give I di authority!"] [BOOM!], 'War To Win' and the title track. It also contained a piece which is the first of the trinity of tunes from Attitude which I hold in the highest possible esteem, the downright flooring 'Ithiopia Alone'.  

"Holding Firm" [Zion High Productions - 2005]

Time-delayed. I know I've told this story before, but I'd like to thank Ras Attitude and the fine people at the currently resurgent Zion High Productions for showing me just how old I was. When I very first got a hold of "Holding Firm", frankly I thought it was boring and it had too much singing. It was very much unlike the album I just told you about, which would have been a favourite of mine at the time and still very fresh in my mind, being just a year old at that point. I had it for a little while and then I didn't have it anymore. Fast forward a little while later and I heard it again and . . . Suddenly it sounded like a completely different album. Surely that suggests some type of severe aging on my part and while I miss my 20's more and more each day, one of the gifts of time passing with me still being on the planet is that my ears had been opened to one of the greatest JOYS of an album Attitude has ever given the world. "Holding Firm" was absolutely a loaded album and you could go straight down the line unerringly and hit a winner at every stop along the way. Particularly, check 'Wrath of Jah', which featured Batch, 'All We Need Is Love', 'Why', the title track and the song which still tops this one for me, 'Let Jah Be Praised'.  

"Royal Lionage" [Royal Inity - 2006] 

Upstream. I look at "Royal Lionage" now as THE album which very much ushered in the 'modern' version of Ras Attitude (and yes, I know that makes no sense at all). It was a streamlined  (literally, it only had eleven tunes) and well refined set which now serves as one of the most instant basis of comparisons when dealing with output from the artist. It's interesting now because he's clearly developed from then, but even being MORE talented - it's difficult to top this sublime one from Royal Inity (who has seemingly vanished from the planet these days) (biggup IM Music). Despite its brevity, this album featured a great deal of memorable moments which jump out even prior to going back and listening to it. I remember songs like 'Revelation Time', 'Joyful Day' (especially), ' Push Up Your Level Rasta', 'Kette Drum' and 'Upstream of Life' by name and already associate them to this album without very much thought and that wasn't all. "Royal Lionage" came to its conclusion with a pair of the strongest tunes in Attitude's vault altogether. There was the all kind of beautiful 'Shelter Me Oh Jah' and, of course, 'Know Who Is Jah', which is the second of the aforesaid 'trinity' of truly great songs from the chanter. 

"Trodding Home" [Green Sphere Records - 2007]

'Trodding Home'

Wearing a crown. If I remember correctly, pretty much at the same time that Batch pushed his own album for Green Sphere Records, "I-Ver Strong", Ras Attitude had an album for the label which, arguably, remains his most high profile release to date (until, I Grade Records goes ahead and does the inevitable), "Trodding Home". The album featured a title track which would go on to make a serious impact on just about anyone who ever heard it (even me - it's the last of my 'trinity') and become probably the single biggest hit of Attitude's career to date. For me, I go so long without REALLY digging into this one, that I'm always happy when I find a reason to listen it again, because I'm almost sure to find a new favourite songs. These days it doesn't get much better than 'Music' (you need to hear that song, right now), but I'm also focused on older favourites like 'Jah Lives' with Malika Madremana, 'We Gonna Make It' and a song which I completely forgot was on this album, an acoustic version of 'Music', featuring the full motion brilliance that is the incomparable Tuff Lion.  

"I-Meditation" [Universal Balance Records - 2009]

Universal. I don't have to think about these things very much anymore (because I already have, obviously), but 2009's "I-Meditation" is not only the single best album that Ras Attitude has done in his entire career, it's also the one which, at least for me, showed that it was time to looking at him for the talent that he was and got me started on the thinking that he was one who was capable of putting together that type of LANDMARK moment (and he is, he's going to prove me right, I'm sure of it). When you do something like this, even with the great works he'd already given us at the time, I'm expecting great things and I haven't waned in that at all. What made it so good? Pick just about any of the album's seventeen lights and you'll know why. Pay a special attention, however, to songs like 'Disya Time' (if I were to make my trinity a quartet, this tune would be number four and I probably should do that, but I don't feel like rewriting this piece!), 'Mi Woulda Vex' alongside album producer Ishi Dube (biggup Ishi Dube), 'Great God' with Norris Man, 'Sing A Song' with Jah Dan, Everton Blender joining in on 'Whip Dem' and the ear candy that is 'Gway' . . . oh and every other song on the album while you're listening also. Winstrong and Jah Sun also made appearances on this album which was just fantastic!

"Hold the Vibes" [One Drop Records - 2012]

Here we go again. Having had just a few weeks now to simmer on Attitude's latest creation, "Hold the Vibes" - I don't think that my impressions of it have changed very much, but perhaps my thoughts have solidified in just a bit (I do really like that cover, which I didn't say previously). 'Here We Go' definitely remains my favourite, but after that I think the one tune that I've gravitated towards most as of late has been 'Miss Royalness'. That tune has a riddim on it which may just be the best on the entire album and is really just hard to shake from your senses (not that I've tried very hard). As I said before, while I don't think this one is his finest piece of work, it has reassured me that the greatness that I heard isn't very far away from flourishing in its brightest way.

Ras Attitude

So! Hopefully you've already picked them all up, but if you've missed one or two along the way, definitely check out the work of an artist who really has everything you would hope from a performer in modern Roots Reggae, Ras Attitude. 

'Stay Tuned': A review of "Hold the Vibes" by Ras Attitude

I think that the more and more you listen to someone's music, the more capable you becoming in knowing what to expect from them in the future. It's very interesting that, even when dealing with people who you don't know very well and may never even meet in person in some instances, you can still approximate where they are and where they will be, musically, at any given time if you pay enough attention. Currently, when I look out across the landscape of Reggae music, I not only see artists who fall directly within this concept, but also those who fall just a bit outside of it as well. On one hand there is someone who is so wonderfully easily predicted such as Sizzla Kalonji. By this point we well know that there is no set-in-stone course to what that man does, so his work is only very simple to anticipate, because you have no idea what he is going to do. Ever. So you predict everything. More terrestrially would be someone like Luciano who can almost be guaranteed to stand up and sing righteous music whenever he gets the opportunity. Over his legendary career, 'The Message' has established himself as one of the most dependable and stalwart artists in Reggae music and for as long as he is singing, you can be sure that will be his case. A good example of someone who 'resides' in the not as predictable, but definitely anticipated arena would be . . . Oh I don't know, maybe Ras Attitude. What you expect from him is different and you do it for a different reason as well. To my opinion, the chanter from out of St. Croix is as wholly gifted as ANYONE in Reggae music today and he also seems to perpetually be standing in waiting room of greatness and a level of stardom which is near the top of Roots Reggae. Here's how he's predictable: Having listened to so much of his work, I'm as confident RIGHT NOW as I've ever been that Attitude will 'walk in the room'. Before his career is done, I'm 99.9999999999% sure Attitude will be one of the biggest names in the game and my confidence in that comes strictly for a musical reason. His music is just too good and his 'star potential' is just too obvious for him not be there one day. And recently we dealt with Mark Wonder for his beautiful new set, "Working Wonders" which, to my opinion was the culmination of an unstoppable amount of momentum. That isn't the specific case with Ras Attitude. He is the momentum. 

But of course you still have to the work, until we get there and that's never been a problem with this artist (or Mark Wonder, thankfully). It's been now three years from since Attitude has jumped out with a big album for the masses. His last release, 2009's "I-Meditation", was his finest and was the premise of this review in a microcosm. It was a shuffle (in any direction, any one at all) away from being this kind - LOOK HERE - type of a moment for him and it was only that far away because you could still hear that he could do better and, again, he would (and he still will, I'm sure). To my ears, it was the finest of his six album catalog at the time and while I could point to other big moments for him ["Ithiopia alone! Ithiopia alone!"], were you to ask me which of his full projects best showed Attitude in the finest light, I'd hand you a copy of "I-Meditation" (and then take it back immediately and tell you to get your own) (do I look like a store???). 

The music of Ras Attitude

 Moving forward. I'd like to think that the extremely well received last album brought in just a bit of new fans who would stick around and anticipate the next piece of work from Attitude and now I'm going to get an opportunity to test that thought - kind of. Ras Attitude now brings forth his latest creation, "Hold the Vibes". There is SO little that I can tell you for certainty about this album that there is SO much that I can tell you about (that makes no sense at all, but it's accurate). The album comes via one Leslie Carlton and OneDrop Productions, which is apparently a very new label from out of California. However, there're two things about this one which standout behind the scenes. The first is that we found a poster/picture announcing its arrival (with the label's name on it) which was dated back to nearly a year and a half ago (April 2011). Secondly, and far more importantly, "Hold the Vibes" carries the insignia of Sound V.I.Zion Records which just adds a completely separate division (did you catch that?) of interest here. Sound V.I.Zion is not only the label which brought Attitude to prominence in releasing both of his first two albums, "Happiness" and "Love Life" (which I've been listening to a lot these days), but it's also the label of his very good friend, musical family and all around genius craftsmen of vibes (who needs his own new album), Ras Batch (who also features on a big new single from Attitude, 'Vampire Slayer' which I've told you about twice now and you should already have picked up). The guess here would be that this album is the product of some type of collaborative effort between the two labels which have apparently worked very hard to bring it to fruition. OneDrop has also done something which is terribly interesting that I hope to tell you about soon (again), in releasing another album at the same time which I promised myself that I wouldn't mention by name, so what you have here is one of the best ways for a label to introduce itself in recent memory. Now, also something that should be mentioned is that this piece just . . . Kind of seemed to pop up from out of nowhere late last week and here it is. We've been talking a great deal of promotion lately, and promotion especially regarding artists from out of the Virgin Islands, in light of Midnite's continued pilgrimage following their glowingly pushed 2011 set, "King's Bell". This album will certainly get more of a push than it has already (HOPEFULLY) and it will be very interesting to see how it is ultimately supported. While that remains to be seen, what we can take a look and listen to right now is whether "Hold the Vibes" is any good and another vivid display of Attitude's most brilliant of talents. Follow me!

What I immediately noticed about the actual music on "Hold the Vibes" was that, in many cases, it's very loose and kind of free-flowing. Ras Attitude has several different styles and approaches to his work, so although I may very well be predicting an inevitable greatness from him (and I am), from album to album and from tune to tune, you don't know what to expect, although I also wouldn't call him as 'shocking' as the aforementioned Sizzla Kalonji and the likes. For an example of just how 'liberated' this set can be, take a listen to its opener, 'Soljah'. Outside of the chorus and maybe the earliest portions of the track, I'd assume that this tune was a free-style over a basic, but HEAVY, drum backing. Of course that doesn't mean that it's bad in sense -- by its end, the intro-like track proves damn impressive for what it is. Things continue with the strong next tune which is sure to be a highlight here for fans, the vibrant 'Give Thanks'. Again, I don't think that certain portions of this tune were so heavily concentrated upon when they were being written and instead the real point of interest of 'Give Thanks' is the passion Attitude throws into it. As it goes along you can hear him getting more and more focused and centered on doing what the title says to and in the latter stages of this song, he's giving thanks and praise to EVERYTHING he holds in dear in life. Not to be missed! The third tune on "Hold the Vibes" and the final of the opening batch (biggup Batch) is also the first of its two combination songs, 'We Got the Handle'. I haven't heard so much as a verse from the FLAMING Ancient King and when I heard a clip of this tune (before seeing its label), the part I heard was on him and I was very happily surprised to see him back and rhyming and this time in a heavy way (as is his usual). Free-flowing tunes are the King's specialty and he SHINES on this track which is one of the album's finest. 

“Well a wi got di handle

Babylon got di blade

That’s why mi tell, babylon, seh behave

Wi carry di natty

Nuff a dem ah carry fade

A Rastaman di Ancient of Days

Rasta stay humble while heathen ah rage

Praise King Selassie, and wi nah go fraid

Dem ah praise satan, while The Most High you fi praise

Anytime Rasta rise to di top, dem only want fi si wi fall

It‘s not my fault - you neva listen The King when HIM ah call

Man a image of Jah, some man go shave dem head bald

Where di bearded Rastaman ah keep it royal

So dem go, cut demself wid di blade

And mi hear seh nuff a dem a satan dem a praise

Wid dem evilous rituals, bout man ah get hazed

Yow. the things they imagine, are so vain

Wonda, what is on their brain?!

They act as if they are so, so insane

Go get di one thunder ball and flood dem wid di rain

And watch dem filthy life go down di drain”

Attitude also does more than hold his own (the second stanza above is his alone) and we get one THUMPING combination. Definitely hope to see and hear Ancient King more active and maybe he can get us a third album in the second half of the year. 

The second combination on "Hold the Vibes", 'Trouble Inna Yard', is something to behold, on paper, even before you get to the actual music. The tune is a social commentary which links Ras Attitude with another man of the moment (more on him later in the week, hopefully), Lutan Fyah. I believe this is their second tune together, following the WICKED vegan anthem, 'No Bones, No Blood' (with Jah Sun) and it's another memorable moment. Ras Attitude & Lutan Fyah on a single track is CLASS and it's impacting music, 'Trouble Inna Yard' is both of those and a bit more. Obviously, someone at Sound V.I.Zion and/or OneDrop Productions wants you to focus heavily on the inspiring 'Know and See' because it's on the album in two versions -- an original and a Nyabinghi Version as well. The second of the two (which actually is the album's closer), is the better of the pair, although both are strong. The song is one mainly speaking to the youths to be aware of their surroundings and to really stay on course and focus on His Majesty. It's direction, SLIGHTLY reminds me of the brilliant 'Know Who Is Jah' from the "Royal Lionage" album. Not quite on those levels, but if you hear the tune, you can tell that it likely came from the same type of idea. Your attentions will also, at some point, steer in the direction of the title track, which is another piece that is so fluid. There's not really a set pattern here, it almost seems like a singing speech of sorts, with Attitude just paying a necessary amount of respect to the music itself. Similarly, check 'Remembrance', which would probably think was a tribute to someone who had transitioned, but instead, it is an ode to sweet times gone by (and it also features more singing from Ras Attitude who deos, whether you know it or not [!], have a fine singing voice when he chooses to use it). 

One of my personal favourite songs on "Hold the Vibes" is one which I've already convinced myself won't be widely appreciated and kind of looked over in the way of far more immediate material here. YOU don't do that though! Take an extra special listen to the track 'Calling'. 

“No time fi blaming each other

No, we are sisters and brothers

Yow, look around you, there’s a war going around you

Which side do you choose?

Is it Good or Evil?

Cause right and wrong could never be equal

Check yourself before you wreck yourself -

Don’t push your problems on people

CALLING!

All righteous people, good heart people, conscious people - 

To fight di wicked down

CALLING!

All faithful people, humble people, joyful people -

To see babylon fall - down

Patience for the day, di wicked dem get slay

And there will be no getting away

All those with false confidence, stay on the other side of the fence

Ain’t got no room for discouragement -

Or doubtfulness

Babylon is no paradise of glory

I see it falling slowly

Take heed!

Take heed!

Take heed!

And see, I see what you don’t see

Take heed!

Take heed!

Take heed!

Caah come a Zion wid your dutty livity

Take heed!

Take heed!

Take heed!

WITHOUT LOVE YOU CAN NEVER BE FREE!” 

It's a big selection and not just a big one for THIS album. It would absolutely stand favourably on anything I've heard from Attitude to date. Still, the best song here to my ears is the curiously GORGEOUS 'Here We Go'. There's something about merging a sweet vibe with a SCATHING critique which gets my attention and I LOVED it on this call to action from Ras Attitude. 

“Here we go again

Burning evil and corruption

Rastafari, I and I defend

Unuh betta respect di youth dem under di turban

Here we go again

Doing Jah works fi help and save Jah children

Wave Ites, Gold and Green

Hey, di fyah deh go bounce pon dem

Rastafari deh smarter, wi no dunce pon dem

Wi know how fi stay far from problem

Cuz, if mi eva put di lion paw pon dem -

Draw fi mi peg and stop di vampires dem

Dutty babylon done and dem caah come again

Ethiopian flag mi wave out pon dem

Rasta victorious!

Dem caah stop Jah children

Thunder and earthquake go tremble dem

Flash pon dem”

It's a sparkling song with a deceptively HARSH message aimed at those who stand against righteousness. Not too far behind 'Calling' and 'Here We Go' are another triumphant pair of compositions, 'Always' and the later 'Pray For Me'. The former is GOLD and it makes a point that I'll get back to in just a second with the music there being SO nice. It speaks on people who, no matter what you do, just CANNOT be happy for you "always" attempt to go out of their way and tear down your happiness. 'Pray For Me' is even better in my opinion. Here, the chanter is acknowledging that his path in his life is his own to take and make ["don't cry for me, my pain ain't no different from yours"], but if you wanted to help him out in anyway - throw up a word to His Majesty (and I'm sure he wouldn't mind if you purchased his new album as well) (if you REALLY wanted to help a little). 

Of the three remaining pieces on "Hold the Vibes", the definitive highlight is 'Miss Royalness'. Had you asked me on the first listen of this tune, I would have told you one thing and one thing only, 'the riddim is AMAZING', but now, fifteen spins on or so, it's well grown on me. And there's also the obligatory herbalist track 'Hi-Grade' which is decent, but infectious (so be careful) and finally the perplexing 'Do Re Mi', which is the only track on the album which I didn't like very much. It certainly isn't a bad tune, but again, it's almost surely a freestyle of some sorts because it goes in about forty different directions before it runs its course. 

Ras Attitude

Overall, there're more than enough good moments to make up for any soft spot you'll find on "Hold the Vibes" (and you won't find many). There is something I alluded earlier that earlier that should come up in closing: The MUSIC throughout this album is fantastic. The questions would be on 'Do Re Mi' and 'Hi-Grade', but everything else is straight forward Roots Reggae brilliance, especially that cascading Arabian vibed track standing behind 'Miss Royalness'. All of that is a sign that points to Ras Batch (if he did do  the work, if he didn't the big respect goes to Leslie Carlton and company), he simply does not make bad music. The prevailing quality of "Hold the Vibes" indicates just as firmly the work of Ras Attitude. As I said, the man is still on course and on pace to do something TRULY (biggup Lutan Fyah) special and I'm beginning to think more and more that it will be a big and profound album. That moment doesn't quite come on "Hold the Vibes", but it does nothing but make me think that my forecast of his greatness is still on schedule. 

Rated: 4/5

OneDrop Productions

2012

CD + Digital

Review #376