world reggae - various (Putumayo)

world reggae - various

Reggae has impinged itself on the consciousness of the people of every nation where they have not been so lulled into an anaesthetised sense of (in)security that they can’t see what’s happening in the world. Australia has yet to develop a reggae style that sounds Australian but Putumayo is at hand to show that Jamaica has inspired the musicians of many countries to grow their own. This 12 track collection features artists from France, India, Algeria, Nigeria, Cape Verde, Algeria, Spain, Brazil, French Guiana, Ivory Coast, New Caledonia and Cameroon.

I love Majek Fashek’s African Unity with its plea for religious tolerance even if he sounds a bit too much like Bob Marley for his own good. There are other well known artists here such as Alpha Blondy who will be touring here in Australia when this is posted. His Lalogo skanks like the billy-oh. The striking entries, however are from a couple of artists not specifically known as reggae performers. Maria de Barros contributes the beautifully haunting Riberonzinho, a natural fusion of Cape Verdean morna and reggae rhythm. Algerians Gnawa Diffusion hit the ground running with a powerful fusion of gnawa and skank that is accessible and yet original in concept. This is a very good record to put on at a party of rhythm people. It’s full of catchy rhythms and melodies and it’s completely doof-free.