Collection 50th State Of Mind
Mensch House, 2018
8/10
Listen to Collection 50th State Of Mind
A Polynesian artist, George ‘Fiji’ Veikoso knows his way around a modern island reggae tune, and since 1994 he’s been crafting soulful and playful songs that embody his cultural heritage. Here, Fiji offers us 40 songs across 2 discs, where vocal harmonies are delivered in spades, as is timeless rhythm.
“Chant Of The islands” starts the disc highly melodic and with no shortage of soaring vocals, and this continues to the island rhythms of “Why You”, as well as the groove filled “Inspiration”. The highlight from disc 1 is the beat friendly, danceable “Come On Over”, where soulful singing is met with some hip-hop influence.
Disc 2 holds its own, too, and includes the layered and playful “Warrior Of Love”, as well as the soft and emotive “Unemlament”, where forthright wordplay aligns with the intimate atmosphere. “What You See”, the standout of disc 2, then finds a busy place to reside, where glorious reggae is delivered with plenty of spirit and melody.
Amazingly, with so much content here, Fiji never out welcomes his stay, and instead just delivers one well crafted feel good tune after another.
Travels well with: The Green- Black & White; Slightly Stoopid- Everyday Life, Everyday People