CULTURE
Humble African (VP)
Reviewed by DJ Johnson

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"Many people ask I why am I a Rastaman... Well it is because of the Babylon and the situation."

While so many other reggae artists are grinding hips in the dancehalls, Joseph Hill remains on the front line, still observing, still offering a voice of wisdom and experience to calm the chaos. The political climate in Jamaica is still unhealthy for the native peoples, and the Rastas in particular, and Hill has the lowdown for those still interested in knowing the truth.

The message of Joseph Hill has always been one of peace, and while there's nothing here that screams for a pound of flesh, one thing stands out as a change in philosophy. In "Revolution," Hill sings "If you're ready for revolution, try to find the right man." The message is anything but hidden. Hill has watched, as we all have, every new leader installed by revolution become as bad or worse than the one he replaced. Hill says pick a just leader, "and not the one to trick the nation and wrong an innocent man." In any event, Hill encourages his brethren in "Rolling Stone," reminding them that "Rasta never give it up until the victory's won." That seems to be Joseph Hill's mantra. He's been on task for over two decades, the quality of his music continues to deepen, and his sincerity never wavers. Humble African will almost certainly make my all-genre top five of the year. Maybe yours, too.

© 2000 - DJ Johnson