Groundation – Candle Burning

This California-based outfit often draws on other forms to colour their reggae, and that is obvious from the very first notes of the opening track of their eleventh studio album, Energy. A riffing, slightly menacing sounding electric keyboard opens in classic rock fashion, then a reggae rhythm guitar blends in as the song takes shape; later there is a jazz inflected piano break. The sound of jazz again comes to mind with Hypnotized, reminiscent initially of an experimental sixties jazz big band in the horn work and rhythm; there is also a lengthy, fiery sax solo.

The heavy opener also made me think of Alpha Blondy’s rock-tinged recordings, so maybe it will come as no surprise to some that the Ivorian reggae master guests, alongside an equally impressive Mykal Rose, on the wonderful The Youth. Veteran dub poet Mutabaruka adds gravitas to The Light, musing on the deep theme of the album, and Thomas Mapfumo, star of the Zimbabwean rebel style Chimurenga, adds a touch of the motherland to the rhythmically shifting Holding On.

As just hinted at, the songs reflect lead singer Harrison Stafford’s assertion that the album, and all its nine songs, is about “the light that guides us” and our energy, and this is reflected in the lyrics throughout. The band is always rock solid and tight, the music densely layered at times with unexpected twists and a committed consciousness to the material. Fear not though, this is reggae through and through; it has always been open to incorporating other styles but lend an ear to the Bob Marley-ish Trust Yourself or the closing Anew if you want your reggae unadorned.

Credit is due to all the many singers and players involved. Very distinctive, very individual and very successful – do check it out.