| Do the Right Step (Damp, 2007) When you think of reggae hot spots, Switzerland doesn't normally come to mind, but it is Lee "Scratch" Perry's adopted homeland, and as insane as he is, he wouldn't live in a reggae vacuum, would he? Indeed, the Swiss band Moonraisers have been around for 15 years and have released at five albums, while their label Damp Music has released not only theirs and fellow Swiss group Jah Man Gang's music, but also that of the incomparable Mr. Perry. Compared to Jah Man Gang, The Moonraisers have a more eclectic sound, incorporating pop, rock, funk, dance, electronica, Latin, and even a little aboriginal didgeridoo in a lively, likeable mix that will remind some of what Jamiroquai would sound like as a reggae outfit. This worldly sound may not be everyone's taste, but even the strictest reggae listener will find it hard to resist potential crossover tunes like "One God," "Solidarity," and "Puppet Master," the latter in particular sounding hit-worthy, with its aggressive rock edge playing off impish background vocals courtesy of what sounds like Alvin and the Chipmunks. Tracks like "Rise Up" and "White Spliff" (an intriguing account of the struggle of being a white reggae artist), though, confirm that the group is more than adept at straightforward reggae as well. Lead singer Jaba has a resonant voice similar to Steel Pulse's David Hinds, helping to draw comparisons to Steel Pulse or even the missing-in-action Mystic Revealers, and the musicianship is top-notch (as would be expected for a band that's been around for 15 years). Although personally, I think there should be a worldwide moratorium on covering "Hotel California" in any genre, according to the Moonraisers' website, their version has been downloaded over 500,000 times, so what do I know? Listen to it and the other songs from this fun, fresh album at moonraisers.com. |
| Track Listing 1. Solidarity 2. Puppet Master 3. White Spliff 4. Rise Up 5. Funky Reggae Party 6. Hotel California 7. One God 8. Rain a Fall 9. To Those 10. Why Take It 11. Good Vibes 12. Dollar $hip 13. The Sun Shine for All |
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