Updated with 6 new tracks! Experience the irresistible rhythms of reggae on this global musical journey from the Caribbean to Africa and beyond.
Review
Reggae's infectious and adaptable one-drop shuffle rhythm, coupled with
the music's tendency to deal with social and political issues, has made it a
popular genre for musicians worldwide, and when combined with pop and hip-hop
elements, has made for some fascinating hybrids. This Putumayo collection
reflects both the diversity and the unified cohesiveness of these reggae-based
forms, and makes a fascinating introduction to reggae in the 21st century. The
disc opens with the bright-sounding “Pas de Problemes” by the French group
Kana, which features some solid and efficient Jamaican-inspired horn work.
Nigeria's Majek Fashek drops bits of highlife into the reggae stew with the Bob
Marley-like “African Unity,” while the French group Gnawa Diffusion fuses
rap, rai, reggae, jazz, and funk into a patchwork quilt version of “Ya
Laymi.” The Welsh/Spanish conglomeration known as Mas y Mas adds a dose of
Celtic fiddles to the mix on “Agua.” French Guiana's Chris Combette (who
sings “it's a rastaphobe world” in his selection, “Babylone Buildings”)
draws on East Indian elements, including an impressive sitar break, played here
by Mungel Patasar. Perhaps the biggest name on this compilation, the Ivory
Coast's Alpha Blondy, sings “Lalogo” in the Bambara language, a track that
was recorded at the legendary Tuff Gong studio in Jamaica. As a sampler of the
ever evolving international reggae community, World Reggae opens a wide window
into some fascinating new music. Steve Leggett – AllMusic