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Review
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Splendid Magazine, Review >>
Every genre has its geniuses -- the ones who've made (or continue to make) unique musical strides that push the very boundaries of music. Zappa, Coleman and Cash are familiar names to their respective genres' fans, but what about the gifted musicians whose names are overlooked due to poor distribution or inept management? Linton Kwesi Johnson isn't an entirely anonymous figure in the reggae realm, but he certainly hasn't received the credit he's due. Although Bob Marley is probably the perennial, globally known favorite when it comes to reggae, there's plenty to be said about Johnson as well. On Live in Paris, the purported creator of dub poetry reveals that he hasn't lost a beat during his lengthy and irregular musical career. For many artists, live albums are piss-poor attempts to create a Greatest Hits album with audience participation. That's not the case here; while Johnson confidently performs his hits, there's much more going on here than a rehash of past glories. Johnson's presentation is key: the Jamaican-born, British-raised poet is an exceptionally commanding and consuming performer, soaring through his sometimes controversial catalog of ethnically charged anti-fascist poetry. He sounds as passionate about his work now as he was when he first etched it into vinyl in 1977. Backed by the exceptionally talented Dennis Bovell Dub Band, Johnson takes control of the stage and never relinquishes his grip, either to the backing band or the audience, until closer "Reggae Fi Bernard". Live in Paris flows superbly. Johnson's set starts off strong with "Di Eagle An Di Bear", swinging through syncopated beats and eloquently delivered verses. Unlike most reggae, Johnson doesn't so much sing as he rhymes; it's like a Jamaican-bred offshoot of rap, with strong social and political leanings. "Reggae Fi Peach" and "Want Fi Goh Rave" are similarly formidable numbers -- honest commentaries backed by perfectly played reggae and dub rhythms, infused with powerful melodies. On the vocal front, the spoken-word "Di Great Insohreckshan" is an exceptional piece, showcasing Johnson's powerful polemic and rhetoric. It's tough to single out a highlight, but "Fite Dem Back" seems to find its way out of the speakers more often than the rest. Johnson doesn't mince words on the chorus: "We gonna smash their brains in / Cause they ain't got nofink in 'em." "Fite Dem Back"'s anti-racism message makes clear that Johnson is a man of action, and while he may be confrontational, his message of equality for all is never misunderstood. Guitarist John Kpiaye adds some excellent, unusual reggae-fied solos, while the heavy-handed horn section marches through "Dread Beat An Blood" and "Mekkin Histri" with unmatched skill. The Dub Band is rootsy, righteous and rockin' as it strides alongside Johnson, never tripping over his poetry or accidentally overshadowing him with overplayed beats. Linton's DJ toasting (or dub poetry) is artful enough, but when complemented by the refined rhythms of the Bovell Band, the result is daunting; few reggae groups can match the energy that's heard on these 13 tracks. While some artists may falter in a live setting, Johnson thrives on the energy and makes certain that the audience gets full value for their tickets. If you've never heard Linton Kwesi Johnson, Live in Paris is as good an introduction as any. Once you've become a convert -- and it won't take long -- seek out his studio work for more awe-inspiring performances.
-Andrew Magilow 06/01/05 >> go there
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