Kingston Bolero
Henhouse, 2021
8/10
A very creative endeavor, the classic, orchestral Bolero piece is reinvented into a dub version here, where production from Emanuel Della Valle and Harlan Steinburger’s editing techniques highlight the many players present.
“Kingston Bolero” starts the listen with marching band style drumming from Kirk Bennet as bright brass thanks to Dean Fraser, Okeel McIntyre and Oshane Love enter the rhythmic and melodic climate. About halfway through, a prog-like energy enters the breeziness, effectively making the tune even more alluring.
The dub version of the same track exits the listen, and it flows across 16+ minutes. During its duration, Carol Bowie McLoughlin’s precise keys, Lincoln Thomasx’s intricate guitar work and Sydney Watson’s playful percussion help make for a fascinating journey, though Trevor McKenzie’s bass and Donaldson Sheldon Bernard’s flute make quite an impression, too.
The band were holed up in Jamaica during the early days of Covid when inspiration for this project began, and the dancehall, reggae and dub spirit they create puts a fresh coat of paint on a very old composition that makes for a particularly memorable listen.
Travels well with: Piper Street Sound- Black Eyed Peace; Reggae Angels- Remember Our Creator