9.18.2010

CD REVIEW: Blue King Brown "Worldwize, Part 1: North & South"

Where dancehall and reggae meet politically charged and protest music is right where you will find Australian rockers Blue King Brown. Never has a band created to much music with so many positive and thought provoking messages. Blue King Brown's latest endeavour is split into two parts on two discs labeled 'Northside' and 'Southside.' The first of the two discs features a slew of excellent reggae and dancehall music for fans of artists ranging from Michael Franti to State Radio to M.I.A. It also features a handful of guest appearances from some reggae elite (Sly & Robbie, John Brown's Body's Elliot Martin) and some lesser known collaborators (Voodoo Dred, Queen Ifrica). The standout tracks include the singles "Women's Revolution," "Moment Of Truth," and "Never Fade Away." The most killer reggae/dancehall can be heard on "Not Too Late" and "Hammer" and the lyrical messages in songs like "Teachers Are Leaders" and "Our Word Is Our Weapon" are incredible. The second disc in the sit features some incredible dub reggae. Blue King Brown is at the forefront of conscious music and are becoming leaders in this genre. Part 2 of this set is sure to be just as thought provoking and after hearing this collection, it is highly anticipated.