RAS US Vinyl & CDs

Review: Israel Vibrations' Strength of My Life marks a triumphant return for the trio, following a hiatus that saw them regroup and rediscover their musical strengths. Produced in collaboration with Doctor Dread and backed by the formidable Roots Radics, the album showcases a newfound voice and power. From the uplifting 'Cool and Calm' to the introspective 'Live and Give,' each track is imbued with its own distinct style, complemented by the Radics' masterful instrumentation. The Vibes' vocal performances are stellar, conveying heartfelt religious devotion, social commentary, and personal reflections with conviction. With contributions from reggae luminaries like Augustus Pablo and Dwight Pinkney, Strength of My Life exudes quality. Against all odds, Strength of My Life turned out to be a triumph, the beginning of the group's partnership with the Roots Radics.

Review: A roots reggae vocal trio, Israel Vibration was modeled after the tradition of Culture, whom they recall in both their harmonies and their politically-charged Rasta concerns. On Praises, the group is backed by the crack reggae rhythm unit the Roots Radics as well as the RAS Brass, while lead vocals and songwriting duties are spread out among the core unit. The subject matter is a laundry list of Rasta issues, including social injustice, Jah, the threat of war and positive vibrations. Sage, nourishing itals of sound spring from our speakers like delectable dub treats, as the trio talents of Apple, Skelly and Wiss (Lascelle Bulgin, Cecil Spence and Albert Craig) effuse from this fervent ninth reggae album by the band, first released on Real Authentic Sound.

Review: Nice Biscuit's sophomore album SOS via Bad Vibrations comes after the success of Digital Mountain in 2018 and their ensuing EPs in 2022. Written and recorded at Swan Pond Studios, the nine-track album blends the band's signature psych-rock sound with new influences from disco, jazz fusion, and world music. Vocalists Billie Star and Grace Cuell's soothing harmonies explore themes of finding balance amid chaos so the album reflects diverse emotional responses to global crises, from hope to anger. Recorded over a year, SOS marks the last album featuring original guitarist Jess Ferronato and might be their best yet.