LIVE SHOW
Review
Morgan
Heritage
Fox Theater, 4/28/03
Reviewed
by Jeremy Caplan for The Reggae Movement
The
five brothers and sisters that compose
Morgan Heritage, “reggae’s
royal family,” landed on Boulder’s
Fox Theater Tuesday, April 29.
One of the most
prominent forces in modern roots and culture the group displayed their
strong commitment to universal love and consciousness on a highly
anticipating Fox crowd.
In support of their newest album, “Three In One,” The Heritage
family took the stage and showered the teachings of Rastafari upon the
Rocky Mountains. Composed of five of Jamaican singer Denroy Morgan’s
twenty-nine offspring, Morgan Heritage emanates true love and equal
rights as they move through their vast repertoire of old classics, new
favorites, and traditional reggae tunes such as Jacob Miller’s
“Rasta Taking Over.”
The
band ignited the crowd right from the start with “Jah Presence,” and
then moved directly into their modern classic “Don’t Haffe Dread,”
which is an anthem to everyone, dread or not who embraces the true
essence of Rastafari.
Other favorites such as “Down By the River,” “More Teachings,” and “Live
up,” showed the crowd why this clan has been dubbed “reggae’s royal
family.”
A Deejay set by Boulder’s own authentic dancehall bashment, Zionway
Sound System opened the night. Jus Goodie, Shatta- I, and DJ Prophecy
continue to shine light on his majesty with their devotional conscious ragga
and lover’s rock sets. This Deejay session helped warm up the straggling
crowd as they made their way inside for another night of praising the
most high at the Fox.
Tunes
by Morgan Heritage’s younger siblings LMS echoed throughout the
theater as Zionway ended their set and paved way for lead singer Peter
Morgan, who’s powerful vocal presence will be felt in the Fox for a
long time.
This night marked the national release date of the family’s new album
and they gave Boulder a nice five-song sampling of their most current
material. Songs such as the rocking, “Jump Around,” and “A Man Is
Still a Man,” showcased the bands versatility. “Everything is Still
Everything,” ended the set and payed tribute to Ska, reggae music’s
pioneer.
The family then made way into the entrance of the theater where they met
and reasoned with numerous fans. The entire group portrayed so much
positive energy that it seemed hard for everyone to leave ending another
evening of musical heights in Boulder.
The vibe these
musicians portray is of the highest order. No other reggae band I’ve
seen in recent date exalts the shear love and respect for all human
existence like the Morgan Family. Creating a true Family affair, each
musician welcomes you into his or her heart as big smiles and hugs
wander throughout the entire stage.
Morgan
Heritage’s first performance in Boulder will not be forgotten and I
hope everyone there that evening felt the positive energy that this
group produces on its worldwide audience. I hope to have them back as
soon as Possible. Bless Up!
