REGGAE RUNNINGS -- 12 March 2008

By Jesse I

Firstly this month, I have to pay respect to the great producer Joe Gibbs, who passed away on February 21 at the age of 65, after suffering a heart attack. Like many of the early Jamaican producers, he left most of the studio work to others, but he definitely had an ear for music, and an eye for talent. The session musicians and engineers he selected were some of the very best (such as Tommy McCook, Lynn Taitt, Lee Scratch Perry, Winston “Niney” Holness and Errol Thompson), and he was a responsible for countless important hits stretching from the rocksteady period of the late 60s, right through to the foundation dancehall era of the early 80s. Fans of the great reggae film “Rockers” will also know him as the producer who gives Horsemouth his first break as a record salesman - “just tek it and gwaan!”. RIP Brother Joe.

Sadly, last month’s Tanya Stephens “Rebellution” tour was cancelled, not just for Melbourne, but for all of Australia – another disappointment to go with the recent Bunny Wailer cancellation. Thankfully, we now have something else to look forward to, as Terrasphere Productions have just announced their plans for “Roots Nation 2008”, a massive show scheduled for the Victorian Arts Centre on May 25. This show will see the return of Luciano and Mikey General to Melbourne, this time joined by the legendary singer Horace Andy, and a full live band. More acts and local supports are still to be announced, but take note of this one, as it promises to be huge.

Also coming up is hardcore dancehall deejay Spragga Benz, planned for May 18 at the Prince of Wales Bandroom. Big ups to Mary and the crew from Focus & Rebel Angst for staying with this one and working hard to make it happen – more info soon come.

In the meantime, Redda Red and Chant Down are presenting a night of “dynamite dancehall delights” on Thursday 20th March (Good Friday eve) at new venue La Di Da (577 Little Bourke St). This one will feature Chant Down Sound playing in a strict dancehall style, alongside Binghi Fire, Natty Sistren Sound, Nukc, Kay Z, and Dizzy Dee. The venue also features a criss smokers section, so you don’t even need to leave the party to blaze it up.

On Good Friday itself, it’s all about Riddim Method at the Croft Institute, where Housewife’s Choice selector Bellyas will be holding it down, plus support from Night Nurse, Lady Banton, Ras Crucial, Ranking Yoni, Sister Sarah, and B-Low.

Saturday 22nd March, Natty Sistren Sound celebrate two years of Pressure Drop parties at Laundry, as they welcome back original residents Nich Power and Tempa Rising, plus guests Chant Down. The theme for this one is cammo, with the best outfits drinking for free all night – plus, Laundry will be getting the party started early with free pots from 10-11pm. What more could you ask for?

Amphead music have recently signed on as the Australian distributor of Greensleeves Records, one of the biggest reggae labels in the world – great news for those in the world that still buy CDs! To celebrate, they’re throwing a Greensleeves launch party on March 4 at The Evelyn, featuring The Red Eyes and Chant Down Sound, plus plenty of giveaways.

Heartical Hi-Fi’s monthly Basement Session continues on the first Saturday of every month, forwarding rootical reggae and heavyweight dub music at the Night Owl bar. Saturday 5th April features international guest 2Kings (Henry And Louis, Bristol UK) playing their own exclusive mixes in a dubplate style. Check this one for the true soundsystem bass experience.

Chant Down Sound passes another landmark next month, with the celebration of 7 years of More Fire dances on April 19 at Brown Alley. For most of the decade, this night has been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s reggae/dancehall scene, and has provided inspiration for many other nights around Australia. Residents Ras Crucial and I will be joined by special guests Natty Sistren Sound, Troublemaker, Andy Ites, Lady Banton, Tony Bashment, and Dizzy Dee on the mic – plus nuff more surprises and party treats to get the vibes right!

Finally this month I’d like to take the opportunity to big up the great Systa BB, one of Melbourne’s most treasured DJs and radio personalities, who recently retired from PBS FM after 16 years with the station. Her show “Planetary Chaos” encompassed much more than just reggae and dub, but she is a long-time exponent of these sounds, and will be greatly missed. Respect.