Reggae on the River Live (RAS/Sanctuary, 2004)

This CD solidifies the excellent Reggae on the River 2-DVD set chronicling the 20th anniversary of the festival by providing the audio from most (13 of 18) of the full-length performances from the video.  For reggae veterans, most of the songs included will be familiar, but lovers of live music should relish the energy imbued in these performances.  Particularly involving are Anthony B's "Raid the Barn" (still possibly his best tune), Third World's classic "96 Degrees in the Shade" (performed with a larger-than-life flair), ex-I Threes Judy Mowatt and Marcia Griffiths' unique musical take on Bob Marley's "Redemption Song," and Beres Hammond's energetic medley of "She Loves Me Now" and "Step Aside," along with a surprise tribute to Dennis Brown with "Should I."  Even non-reggae acts like Ben Harper and David Lindley contribute strong, funky roots cuts ("With My Own Two Hands" and "Quarter of a Man," respectively).  However, I don't really understand why the two non-reggae songs make an appearance.  The name of the event is Reggae on the River, not Afro-Pop on the River ("Hear Me Lord") or Cheesy Rap on the River ("We Don't Stop").  Even with the reggae tracks, of course, personal preferences will differ; while I would like to have heard Culture's "I'm Not Ashamed" (which is on the DVD) or Israel Vibration's "Why You So Craven" (I suppose "Reggae on the River" would’ve been the most appropriate), "International Herb" and "Same Song" are fine and are considered classics by many.  All in all, though, Reggae on the River delivers a good time for live album fans and provides just a hint at what the festival is like.  For a more in-depth view beyond the few liner notes on the CD, you should check out the highly-regarded DVD set.