Customer Reviews

Stuck In Paradise

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

We have the CD but bought it from Bankie that last time we were in Anguilla and ours has two extra songs. We have met Bankie quite a few times we've been to his place the "Dune Preserve" on Anguilla and it is one of our favorite places to be. He is a genuine, warm, friendly, intelligent and talented person. He truly enjoys what he does and his life in general and it shows in his music. Stuck in Paradise is just one more to add to our collection of Bankie's music. Harmonicas, whistling and just relaxing "take me away" music is what he's about. It's not only reggae as you would expect, he really has his own sound. It's amazing to think that as a child he made his own guitar with wood and cooper wire. He sings about island life, his life and it really makes us long to be there...

I lived for a while with my wife in Anguilla and had the pleasure of playing keyboards with Bankie several times, including Moonsplash. This is my favorite Bankie CD. I still listen to it regularly and hope to get back to see my friend sometime in the future.

Opening up with a crisp rhythm and clear lyrics, "Price We Pay" begins the album with a realistic look at life. Creating a basis for the album and a melodic intro into the funky, reggae pace of "Taking Over." The rhythm through this song makes your feet start to move and then your head nods to the beat as Bankie's experienced voice and storytelling capabilities sooth even the hardest days. As the album continues on you can see the similarities between Bankie and Dylan during "Quality Time." This song has a roots reggae feel to it while being carried by his rythmicly, poetic lyrics only pulling you more into his groove. "Fires of Freedom" brings the listener back to reality with the singer/songwriter style containing only lyrics and an acoustic guitar that makes your eyes moist with beauty. The story of how Bankie was "Stuck in Paradise" is track 7. Telling stories is Banx's specialty and this song is definately no exception to the mans expertise. Rolling into the lyrically powerful "Gypsy Rides" makes this section of the album truely amazing. With the topics of freedom, corruption, God, and capitalism pushing the backbone of Bankie's lyrics the story comes through quite vividly. It is a story that all too many of us know very well and adds yet another aspect to the album that pulls the listener into the music. So, if you like the storytelling of Dylan and a rare mixture of island reggae this is a must have album that is sure to be timeless.

Buy this CD if you love the Caribbean. Bankie's music takes me to the warm ocean breezes of the Caribbean. If you need to be transformed to Anguilla then buy the CD.

"Stuck in Paradise" by Bankie Banx is a "sleeper" Buy this CD. You will be very pleasantly surprised. Sad that it has not been given more exposure, promotion over the years and air play. I have seen him live and this is almost like being there...no not really....but cheaper than a plane ticket and lodging. Go see him in person-until then get this cd.

this is a great cd! i love island music... it soothes my soul and this one hits the mark! it's very zippy, upbeat. bankie banx is kind of like bob dylan meets bob marley... creative writer, talented singer.

Buy this record! You won't be disappointed. This cd is just outstanding. Bankie is a soulful artist, with a golden heart and lyrics to match. He has welcomed us into his home on the beach on many occasions and has always been generous, kind and has always shared his gifts with us. His music is honest, poignant and sublime. Learn more about Bankie and his music at www.bankiebanx.net.

This is by far worth the money. I will be getting more of his music.

Love it! Didnt at first as we prefer Bankie Banx live, but the cd is great.

Bought this CD at Bankie's unique Dune Preserve club in Anguila (perched atop a dune overlooking the waves). I highly recommend both. This CD is full of variety and enjoyable tunes, nicely performed and produced-- from happy, lilting, uplifting songs to more serious, moving ballads. A shame this album isn't more widely promoted and distributed -- I think it would have a strong shot at being a commercial success (at least among "adult alternative" radio stations and their listeners, if not top 40). Go to Anguila and see Bankie live at his club -- it makes for a great evening.