Arranged by skyjuice promotions, Bob Marley’s anniversary party is coming to the rescue this weekend. Jamaican sun and reggae grooves will lighten moods as stars such as Michael Rose and Etana fill the atmosphere with Rastafari spirit, leaving us jamming throughout the night.
Michael Rose
Highly influential in reggae, Michael Rose’s music is known for the rich complexity of his voice, elaborate arrangements and strong militant message. Together with the Black Uhuru group he produced Anthem, an album that achieved international success and became the first by a reggae artist to win a Grammy in 1984 (while Bob Marley never won one, he was given a Lifetime Achievement Award 20 years after his death in 2001). But then, with the whole world at his feet, Rose retreated to redefine himself as a solo artist.
Rose came back in the 1990s to overhaul his musical direction and continue his political message, which is deeply rooted in Rastafari philosophy. However, his latest album, Showdown Inna Bloody Town, is a departure from this – an updated sound that draws inspiration from Ethiopian jazz. A little less heavy in its message (yet not devoid of critical political references) and a little more relaxed in terms of melody, the album produces a fascinating, transcendental live experience. It’s an unmissable act for any reggae fan.
Etana
The second international act brought to the stage by Skyjuice will be Etana, who is the unofficial queen of social justice reggae. Slightly younger and with a softer, soothing style sprung from soul and gospel music, Etana doesn’t shy away from the Rastafari message. Her first album, The Strong One, drew influence from Dolly Parton, Bob Marley and Sizzla. And from there her music grew and expanded, resulting in the subtle vocals of Better Tomorrow, an album that received good reviews for its soul-influenced grooves and feminist, socially-conscious message.
Her latest album sees her continue to daringly mix soul and gospel into reggae, and it was applauded by the industry. Etana promises to be an exceptional balancing act next to Rose’s more straightforward, rough message to produce the ultimate reggae performance.
Local flavours
Skyjuice will also present some local acts. Among these are Dean Thompson, who sings mostly in Danish, and Jamaican-born Jah Turban. Jah produced the Mama Africa album last year, which was reviewed as “refreshing” and revealing “international level mastership” by Gaffa, earning a 3.5 star review from the music magazine. He's an artist you should keep an eye out for in the future, as he promises to spice up the Danish musical scene. Meanwhile, Ida Ambrose will add a feminine touch with her raspy vocals.
A life of reggae
The music will be complemented by a series of workshops and seminars in a session called ‘pre vibes’. Built as a tribute to the life of Bob Marley, it deals with his political and religious messages, alongside his alternative lifestyle. Seminars on Rastafari, Pinnacle (cradle of the Rastafari movement) and the influence of reggae will bring you closer to the spirit of the king. Speeches and musical tributes held by young artists and kids jamming will warm you up for the musical performances.
Reggae for the future
A bunch of youngsters from Ishøj Ungdomsskole (pictured left) are also participating in the Bob Marley event arranged by Skyjuice Promotions – a great chance for them to learn about, sample and develop an interest in a rarely heard music genre on these shores. The students are participating as part of their Web 2.0 and Journalism 101 course at Ishøj Ungdomsskole (isung.dk).
More than music
With two world-class acts and a daring mix of local artists, this will be the ultimate reggae party. Give into the king’s rastafari spirit and have a chilled night on the town to beat those winter blues. Get yourself down to Pumpehuset and celebrate Bob Marley’s inspirational heritage in true Jamaican style.
January 31, 20:00; Pumpehuset, Studiestræde 52, Cph V; tickets 270kr
