Strong blend at Negril Reggaefest

Crystal Axe, superb Jamaica band Earth Kry, potent Miami-based So Flo (comprising five white dreadlocks and a 'bald head') and surprise guest artiste Dann-I were in good form at Negril Reggaefest, held on Saturday night at Wavz Beach. 

Jamaican show band Earth Kry, presented themselves as a future pillar in roots, rock, reggae, performing with the maturity of seasoned veterans. Displaying sharp musical potency and a sound to take them places,  they were energetic in reeling off their own material, alongside that of Bob Marley and Tanya Stephens.

So Flo was skilful in demonstrating they can sing authentic-sounding reggae with distinctive horns (which are steadily drifting away from Jamaican) music. While the songs were unfamiliar to the audience, efforts like Hang Tough, Shot Him Down and Revolution, proved quite catchy.

Crystal Axe, who doubled as part-time MC, and Dann-I played contrasting sets. While the female songbird delivered a fairly long but richly entertaining set, Dann-I ‘cut and go through,’ teasing the fans with his vocal power.

Sanchez and Freddie McGregor anchored Negril Reggaefest. Sanchez took the stage at 11 p.m., dapper in his trademark suit and tie. He reeled off over 30 songs, each pleasing the fans, Missing You among the songs which set the stage for what was to come.

He paid tribute to departed greats, unleashing Rasta Children (Dennis Brown), Night Nurse, Number One (Gregory Isaacs), Picture On The Wall (Delroy Wilson), Oh Mr DC (Sugar Minott) and his personal favourite, Tenor Saw’s Roll Call.

Concert closer McGregor opened with the riveting Every Little Thing. The crowd promptly became his choir. It was a free flow of hits as he delved into If You Wanna Go, Africa, To Be Poor Is Crime, Prophecy, Push Come To Shove, the melodious Big Ship and I Was Born A Winner.