Californian reggae group, Caribbean Pulse. - Contributed
AS A reggae group based in California, Caribbean Pulse still carries tremendous respect for Jamaica. The group hails Jamaica as the original root of reggae music and a source of inspiration for the positive music they try to bring to the public.
The group is no stranger to the island. Their tune Mr. Man soared on the local charts in 2002; Woman and Dry Your Eyes, a combination with Tony Rebel, were also popular tunes locally. They have also performed in Jamaica, the last show being Rebel Salute in 2001. Their album Stand Up was released in Jamaica last year.
Recently, the group completed the track Blessed, to be released this summer. Their bass player, Jason 'Bassy Jay' Smith, told The Sunday Gleaner that they used the same producers for the hit tune Mr. Man, so they expect the same positive response to the new song.
"It's a roots and culture vibe track, a real nice tune. We used all original live instruments, live horns, everything," he said.
The track was recorded in California and the accompanying music video will be shot there as well. Despite their concentration on the United States, however, the group still has high praises for Jamaica.
Lead singer for the group Ezzy Judah said that as a Rastafarian, Jamaica is one source of motivation for him. "It's just a natural thing with Jamaica. Jamaica is the birthplace of reggae and is the best place. There is no comparing it to California," he stated.
In Smith's own words, "Jamaica is where they (the public) really check you out thoroughly. You have to be prepared to play on a level when you are there."
The group expects to be in Jamaica later this year, but plans have not yet been finalised.
Germaine Smith
