Papa Rosko
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
The fusion artist Papa Rosko comes through with this debut album of originals and covers, where rock, pop, alt-rock, Latin and country traces enter a very well fleshed out reggae template as Daval Fletcher, Akil Karam, Duwayne Hailett, Ian Johnson and Stephen Lambardelli accompany him, as does a long list of guests.
“Folsom Prison Blues” starts the album with plenty of grooves in the reggae flavored version of the classic tune, where Toots Hibbert of Toots & The Maytals lends his inimitable vocals, and “Tranquilo” follows with Yanelisa’s pretty pipes complementing the Latin influenced setting that’s certainly not short on melody.
At the halfway point, “NooZies” recruits a soaring atmosphere as hip-hop enters the playful delivery with a fiery horn section and drum programming by Paul Kronk, while “Chemistry Is Everything” offers acoustic guitar amid a romantic display that benefits from Lucas Morelli’s synth. “1984”, one of the album’s best, then moves loudly, with screeching guitar acrobatics as calmer moments meet frantic swells of dynamic musicianship that can be as tense as the novel it’s named after.
Close to the end, the dub version of “Now Is The Moment” leaves an impression with its soothing yet adventurous execution and the rhythmic “Man Wan 2 B Free” exits the listen with fascinating interplay between Rosko’s esteemed band.
Recorded over two and a half years between Florida and Jamaica, the album flows seamlessly from one track to the next, where the myriad of influences ensure a varied and highly enjoyable listen.
Travels well with: Space Kamp- Electric Lemonade; Brownout- Berlin Sessions