Customer Reviews

Rastafari Elders

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RASTAFARI ELDERS is a CD consisting of 16 tracks, hymns interspersed with dialogues, from 7 representatives of the Nyabinghi sect of Rastafarianism. For any person interested in comparative religion and studying the basic facts of the Rastafarian faith, this CD is highly recommended. There are many key books in the academic world on Rastafarianism, but this CD, with its inspired singing and personal dialogues, shows a better glimpse of faith in the lives of individual Rastafarians. The liner notes give an well-written introduction to the religion.

Certainly an unusual CD, I came across it because of the samples of the album used in Thievery Corporation's SOUNDS FROM THE THIEVERY HI-FI, but I credit this CD with showing me that Rastafarianism is a rich and novel spiritual tradition, and not the American stereotype of the marijuana-smoking reggae musician.

This cd is in the traditional style of the Nyabingi Rastafari. After each song there is a speech by each elder that teaches wisdom. For bretheren of the faith this is a must!!

I picked this up after having bought Churchical Chants of the Nyabinghi and was very happy with what I was hearing. I don't practice Rastafarianism, but I love the fact that I can grab a glimpse of the religion and hear the devoutness of the teachers here. This is one religion which has some pretty faithful followers and quite a bit of positive wisdom. I recommend it to all scholars of religion and those who just like to listen to the wonderful patois. I agree with the reviewer who mentioned that these aren't your stereotyped Rastas. Leave behind the stereotypical view of the Rastaman and hear what they are really about with this recording. Quite enlightening.

Don't get this thinking you are purchasing a reggae cd. If you thought this was reggae then it is a 1 star reggae cd.

Traditional Ethiopian drums and positive messages. MUST have.