BURNING SPEAR
Calling Rastafari (Heartbeat)
Reviewed by DJ Johnson

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Could it be that Winston Rodney (better known as Burning Spear) feels forgotten? Or is it just a song? In "As It Is," Rodney sings of early struggles for artistic recognition in such a way that it seems almost current, as if he's feeling a bit lost in the currents of dancehall-dominated reggae music. He sings "did someone remember Burning Spear? Did someone remember him?" If that's the case, I'd hate to think he's correct when he sings "they put me aside - they passed me by," because, as Calling Rastafari indisputably proves, Burning Spear is just as vital as ever, still a tremendous force in conscious reggae. Rodney's still singing of injustice, both covert and overt, still offering a voice of reason and a rallying cry with echoes of Marcus Garvey. Calling Rastafari is very clearly a Burning Spear album. Blind listening tests won't fool anyone. The trademark vibe is there, strong and compelling as ever, with deep bass grooves, exotic rhythms and sweet harmonies behind Rodney's world-weary voice. So just in case you're forgetting Burning Spear, take this refresher course ASAP.

© 2000 - DJ Johnson