As
roots reggae
harmony groups go,
Culture
has always been a bit unique. Wholly dominated by the mystical and strangely charismatic lead singer and songwriter
Joseph Hill
,
has always dealt in simple (some would say simplistic) and yet absurdly catchy melodies, astringent harmonies and lyrics of the very dreadest character -- very few love songs, very few party songs, just lots and lots of dire warnings issued to Babylon and its fellow travellers. Although the band is most commonly praised for its work with producer
Joe Gibbs
(most notably the stone classic
Two Sevens Clash
album), many the tracks
recorded under the supervision of
Sonia Pottinger
are every bit as good, and
Cumbolo
includes ten of the best of those. Just about every song here counts as a highlight, but
"Natty Never Get Weary,"
"Poor Jah People,"
and a charming adaptation of
"This Train"
are all particularly good. And the backup is provided by a shifting contingent of Jamaica's studio aristocracy that includes
Sly & Robbie
Ansel Collins
, and
"Deadly" Headley Bennett
, among other luminaries. Highly recommended. ~ Rick Anderson