Search - Groundation, Apple Gabriel, Don Carlos :: We Free Again

Groundation delivers again

Gordo | Chicago | 10/17/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I just got this album a couple of days ago and was wondering how good of an answer they'd have to Hebron Gate. This album is incredible at first listen. They stepped up the tempos overall, especially from earlier stuff off Young Tree, and the rest of the instrumentation runs with the intense drumming/percussion. The guest vocals are outstanding, they really shine on the title track "We Free Again" which is already a favorite tune. "Music Is The Most High" is another sick, sick tune. Harrison Stafford really knows how to worship the king of reggae while holding his own unique voice at the same time. Groundation still holds true to their own roots as well as the roots of reggae. This album reminds me of Survival, but with much better instrumentation. Buy Hebron Gate, then this album, and you'll have two legendary reggae albums in my opinion.



I had to edit this review from awhile back to make mention of two other albums by Groundation -- Upon The Bridge and Each One Teach One. I think both are better than this album which is why I'd change the 5 stars to 4 if possible. That being said this is still a very good album. That being said, you should just go ahead and buy every Groundation album. They won't disappoint."

Amazing, but not for beginners

E. Wallace | PA | 05/20/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I recently discovered Groundation and gambled on Hebron Gate, having only read reviews of their music. I am now a total fan. About a month after getting Hebron I ordered We Free Again. The first time I heard it, it leveled me. I cannot even think of what to compare it to. It is certainly roots, and has the great musicianship and vocals that I associate with the group. But this album seeks to take reggae to a new level.



You will not find too many sing alongs here. The music is driving with many twists and turns, rhythm and pace changes, and the vocals are more of a chant - a continuos dialogue rather than the traditional verse, verse, chorus, verse format.



Ever wondered what it would have been like if Hendrix jammed with Parliament, or Robert Johnson got to sit in with Led Zepplin? Well this made me think "What if Burning Spear did an album with Yes." Ok, it may not be that far out, but there are many Progressive Rock elements here. There are also some incredibly heavy lyrics and some of the best drumming moments I have ever heard on a reggae disk!



It's a truly wonderful recording, but if you are not familiar with Groundation, it is not the one I would get first. Start with an earlier more traditional album and once you have become hooked, order this one.

"

Solid roots, dissonant deviations

bifid pyrg | Flagstaff Arizona | 05/28/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Windows of deep Groundation roots frequent this album, but are punctuated by occassionally dissonant, sometimes even frantic tracks that qualify We Free Again, as a whole, a deviation from Groundation's more roots-grounded past works. To the roots listener's experienced ear, this album ranges territory that affords an interesting and attention demanding listen. The pace varies widely between tracks, shifting from deep swinging roots to hihgly tense stepping. Musicianship throughout is typically excellent, and the recording boasts the usual warm, analog sound. Lead vocals will continue to please or displease according to taste, and back up vocals are smooth so smooth. A worthy purchase to be sure, but not entirely an album to chill to. Perhaps an accurate musical portrait of our times."