Talkin' Roots Volume I

Virgin Island band Bambu Station are eliciting ever greater attention in the wider reggae world; a self-contained unit, the group run their own studio, producing and backing like-minded cultural artists. The Talkin' Roots, Vol. 1 compilation shines an even brighter spotlight on the V.I. scene, showcasing the talents of Bambu themselves, as well as another half-a-dozen local artists. Beyond providing the sumptuous roots reggae backings, two of Bambu's members step up to the mike to deliver their own cuts. Band founder, frontman, songwriter, and rhythm guitarist Jalani Horton delivers up the powerful "House of the Living," while band bassist/backing vocalist Andre "Andy" Llanos offers the soulful, downbeat "Only Jah Jah Know." It says much about the modesty of this group, that their own tracks are placed respectively halfway down and at the end of the set, and choose instead to kick the set off with a new artist, Iba, who makes his recording debut here. Iba repays their faith with the potent "Chant," a lesson in righteous living, and the emotive sufferer's song "Tell Me Why" later in the set. A grand new talent is born. Yah Shiloh I is barely better known than Iba, but his incendiary "Words of the Wise" and even more ferocious "The Truth" make clear this DJ is one to watch. Natty Empress also makes her debut here; she's a woman to reckon with, who demands recognition for herself and all women on "See Me Now." You may prefer her in "See Me's chanting form than as a singjay, but her message still rings clear on "Life." Star Lion Family solve this problem by sporting a member dedicated to each kind of style. The seven strong team are currently mashing up the Caribbean, and their pro-ganja anthem "The Draw" is a perfect example of the group's eclectic sound and exhilarating, infectious performances. Two of the Family, Rafijah and Niyo Rah provide the sweeter and gentler side of the Lion's roar, and here the pair offer up the uplifting, heartachingly beautiful "Let It Out." Such wonderful numbers, and we still haven't even mentioned the set's biggest star, Dezarie, a recording veteran and inspiring singer whose earth shattering "Woe!" is unforgettable. So strong are all the cuts here, however, that even she can't overshadow the other artists, least of all Ahnk Watep, whose erudite, thought-provoking lyrics are a highlight of this stunning album. Fabulous music continues to flood out of Jamaica nowadays, but don't let the deluge wash away the equally crucial recordings emanating from the Virgin Islands, easily the equal of their larger neighbor, and at times, as here, even better.