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REVIEW: VARIOUS ARTISTS - Pharos Frontline (Pharos Records)

The Pharos Records label first came to my attention after buying my copy of The Amharic LP "Descendents" in 2003. The first thing that struck me was the clear and orthodox sounding style of reggae that featured on the LP. Live instrument arrangements all through. Some might see this as reactionary and not very progressive. I on the other hand disagree since it was this orthodox sounding style of reggae that got me into this music in the first place and it's this feel of musical assurance that I so often think is missing today.

The Pharos Records is a UK based reggae label who's main goal is to make and release good music, primary reggae music. Simple as that. The core of the label is consisted of Pan Lemos and Victor "Jazzbo" Downs (of The Amharic) who've brought in Englands top reggae musicians for these recording sessions which eventually lead to the release of this album. The vocalists featuring on this compilation album are veterans like Little Roy, Fredlocks and Gregory Isaacs and later talents like Anthony John, Empress Ayeola and The Amharic among others. The strength of this album are the great talents provided by each of the artists and the versatility and genuine arrangements by the musicians and producers. Some of the names appearing on the album are completly new to me yet non the less equally talented.

Soundclip - The Amharic - Survivor

Just take Yaashanti Hemai who's song "Thank You Jah" is one of best tunes on the album (although it's hard to pick one). A rockers tune with a driven rhythm section backing the beautiful voiced Yaashanti as she gives praises unto the Almighty. Eazy Wayne who I've haven't heard much of before makes a serious impression delivering two great tunes of encourage and perseverance on "Worries of Life" and "Armagiddeon Thing". My personal favorite The Amharic also features on the album with "Why Oh Why" taken off their critically acclaimed album "Descendents" and a recut of "Survivor" who's original version featured on their second album "His Imperial Majesty".

Soundclip - Eazy Wayne - Armagiddeon Thing

The veterans mentioned above still got their talents intact. Listen to Earl "16" Daley's "African Teaching" where he declares the need of teaching African history to the children. Earl sounds as good as ever while riding a solid one drop rhythm. Same goes for Fredlocks who's in good form when interpretating the lyrics of Little Roy on "Rastaman Fight" and "Forces". I could go on and on since I think there's only killers and no filler on this album. It didn't take a day, week or month to get into this album. After listening straight through it once I was instantly hooked by the clean production and versatility of the many singer and deejays showcasing their talents. A extra ovation goes to Wayne "Horseman" Williams, Carlton "Bubblers", Niler Hailstones, Winston Rose, Trevor Edwards, Blacksteel and all the other musicians for delivering such solid and groovy rhythms.

Why this release haven't got more exposure is a mystery to me since it was released some time this summer? This compilation album is a perfect blend of upfull roots with a touch of lovers from both well established singers as well upcoming talents. The CD booklet also gives you a good informative introduction to each of the artists as well as the Pharos Records label which I hope to hear more from in the future. In my opion one of the best kept secrets coming out of the UK in 2005.

/Jakob Levi 28/12-05