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R.A.W. 2000: Reggae for the New Millennium (Ruff Stuff, 1999) It only makes sense that the US-based grassroots reggae network Reggae Ambassadors Worldwide (R.A.W.) would bring together samples of underground reggae culled from its international membership. What a great way to give these artists exposure; hopefully, R.A.W. will continue putting out such collections after 2000. Displaying a true worldwide flavor, this compilation contains artists representing everywhere from Jamaica to the USA to Africa to Canada to Europe. Roots is the dominant sound here, with a couple of dancehall and dub tunes thrown in for good measure. As would be expected, R.A.W. 2000 has its share of mediocre, amateurish songs -- particularly the kiddie-pop reggae of Whispering Lion's "UP2US" -- but the songs that are good are very good and make the album more than worthwhile. The best tracks include the Canadian band Reggae Cowboys' rousing rock steady jam "Lighten Up," the funky, Marley-esque "Busy Street" from America's Mystic Vibration, the smooth, melodic roots of the Dutch singer Tonca's "Committed to Jah," Isaac Haile Selassie's "Unite," the captivating dub "It Shall Be Dread" from the American band Root Awakening, the safe sex message of Norwegian Ras Nas' "Trouble in Dub," Jerri Jheto's "Kanayo," and the haunting Arabic (I think) vocals of "Kaise Guzar Rahi Hai" by Dub Factory. |
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