Customer Reviews

Live 84

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Somehow in the whirlwind of music from the 80's and 90's I had regrettably omitted Black Uhuru from my concertgoing experiences.

Now - at a chance seeing of Michael Rose Live in November 2000, I found myself with a golden opportunity to revisit the Black Uhuru "Live '84" CD with new eyes, having had NO knowledge whatsoever of either Rose or Uhuru previously. Rose performed live in concert many of the titles included in this collection. The arrangements are so unique to the artform & brilliantly constructed that I could only WONDER at what could be the sound from 1984; which also included the stellar Sly & Robbie Rythym Section and more lead-guitar based rock stylings of the era.

Every song Rose did live became instantly familiar, due in part to the "anthem" like quality many selections possessed. Upon leaving the current live concert I was absolutely convinced that we'd seen one of the most important legends in the history of reggae music.

Hearing Black Uhuru, therefore, at their height with Rose, was a priority. With a drama and deep relevance, the 1984 piece is a sound captured as on its stark cover with the naked painted letters in black and white. The songs ring out with purpose, heartfelt depth; and yet hope and healing, as Rose chants, wails and styles his way through the pulsating collection of work - Black Uhuru insistently behind him in all its color schemes.

The more I hear this CD the greater its significance becomes. This is a true, unabashed artistry that makes no apologies. Reggae here was taken into entirely new vistas, and this is the historical documentation of the true achievement that brought a Grammy to Rose and Uhuru for their groundbreaking and dynamic music. Ironically enough, it is very futuristic as well, as artists such as Buju Banton have been trying to take reggae back to its Conscious development based on this style.

Get this - play it somewhat at decent volume, and take yourself to where the spiritual moves the music to the message!

I'm rather skeptical regarding the labelling of this release as 1984. Based upon the setlist, it is apparently from the 1981 tour, and in fact may be an official version of the 10/17/81 Essen, Germany show that has been available as a bootleg. Nonetheless, this is without doubt one of the finest examples of live roots reggae available. The presence of the Sly & Robbie rhythm section really solidifies the effort. Highly recommended.

Rasta Far I is in everywere in this classical roots reaggae album.
Rose has his magical voice and he is really good in live performance.
The espiritual message in all music sequence makes you feel the spiritual love.
The message is: put the cd, relax and love one another!

'84 is when Black Uhuru was at it's peak! Heard this CD on college radio station. Excellent spacey, reggae, rubbadub sytlie maaan. jah rastafarria, smoke a fattie maaaaan.