All-star Jamaican band hit a high note on this wonderful collection of reggae classics.
The Kingston Lions – Bulletproof Records 1057LPBPF stereo vinyl ****1/2:
(Mitch – vocals; Andrew Cassanova – vocals; Karell Wisdom – vocals; Mikey “Mao” Chung – guitar; Boris Gardiner – bass; Robbie Lynn – keyboards; Franklyn “Bubbler” Waul – keyboards; Uzziah “Sticky” Thompson – percussion; David Madden – trumpet; David Dacosta – saxophone; Calvin Cameron – trombone; Mikey “Boo” Richards – drums; Patrick McDonald – guitar;Nick Hexum – vocals; Dave Wakeling – vocals)
Hot on the heels of the successful reggae-arranged classic rock album, The Mighty Rootsmen, Bulletproof Records has released another all-star cover album, The Kingston Lions. This time, classic Jamaican tunes from the 60’s and 70’s, including a few from The Harder They Come soundtrack are immersed in cultural, aspirational contexts. This is a testament to the lasting impact of this genre. Sadly, a few of the session musicians have passed away, but their significant musical legacy endures. Side A opens with “Rudy, A Message To You”. Originally recorded by Dandy Livingston (and later by The Specials), it is a jaunty horn-infused jam, but with a distinctive socio-political message. There is a soulful funky vibe with cohesive play, augmented by trombone and guitar. Getting away from the recognizable catalogue is a breezy version of Nina Simone’s “Young Gifted And Black”. Somehow, this peculiar intermingling of racial identity and reggae aesthetics (first undertaken in 1970) works. Another edgier number (“Armageddon Time”) was an urgent statement in the late 70’s by Willie Williams (and covered by The Clash). Again, the relaxed instrumentation is a counterpoint to the controversial religious and political realities of the time. Next up is a pair of songs from The Harder They Fall. “Rivers Of Babylon” (The Melodians) is a head-nodding Island gospel with soulful, energetic vocals. Outlaw imagery (“…Walking down the road with a pistol in your hand…”) is at the core of “Johnny Too Bad” which combines bouncy accessible keyboards, steady tempo and cautionary lyrics. Perhaps the first big crossover reggae song (Desmond Dekker’s “The Israelites”) captures the magnetic appeal of the number with a slower tempo. “Book Of Rules” has that classic groove with rich vocal textures (including a vocalese chorus).
Max Romeo’s “War Ina Babylon” features vocals by Dave Wakeling (Beat) and has a hypnotic warm pulse that never abates. It would not be a reggae tribute without a Wailers tune. Karell Wisdom manages to channel the spirit of Bob Marley on “Soul Shakedown Party” avoiding unnecessary imitation. The backing musicians (including singers) maintain integrity to the source music. A certain highlight is the cautionary Jamaican tale, “Pressure Drop”. Mitch pays homage to Toots And The Maytals with higher-register vocals that create a fresh take on this arrangement. Another song from The Harder They Come soundtrack, “Stop That Train” displays cool wah-wah guitar riffs, affable vocals and well-phrased synthesizers. Most listeners will recognize “Wonderful World, Beautiful People” (another Jimmy Cliff hit). This cover is up tempo and will get anyone up dancing. The finale, Girl, I’ve Got A Date” wraps up this album with stylish musicality (especially guitar) and good vibes.
The Kingston Lions is a joyful musical statement that should appeal to veteran reggae fans and newcomers alike.
Highly recommended!
—Robbie Gerson
The Kingston Lions
TrackList:
Side 1: Rudy, A Message To You; Young Gifted And Black; Armageddon Time; Rivers Of Babylon; Johnny Too Bad; Israelites; Book Of Rules
Sides 2: War Ina Babylon; Soul Shakedown Party; Pressure Drop; Dreamland; Stop That Train; Wonderful World, Beautiful People; Girl, I’ve Got A Date.
