Gondwana - RAS Portraits '2020

Tracks list

After releasing Gondwanas first three albums, the RAS label gathered up the
highlights for this latest entry in their Portraits compilations series. With a
mere 11 tracks and clocking in at just 50 minutes, the album will leave
listeners wanting more, which is precisely the point. The sleeve notes, penned
by Doctor Dread, who oversaw all three sets, never get around to actually
listing the bandmembers, but one can forgive that oversight, as his love and
enthusiasm for the group is so evident. And what reggae fan doesnt feel the same
way? Since their debut, Together, in 1999, the Chilean band have brought reggae
back to its finest roots. And even though Gondwana were not Made in Jamaica
(although that set, their third, was recorded there), bar the mostly Spanish
lyrics, they are so true to reggae and its sensibilities that its hard to
believe they werent raised on the island. That said, Gondwana do bring a subtle
Spanish shading to their sound, a delicate twist of styling mostly found around
the brass. With a styling gravitating toward the 80s, its evident that most of
the members were inspired by the Roots Radics, but they create a warmer, fuller,
and more textured sound than the Jamaican veterans. Portraits features many of
the bands gentler numbers, including the richly romantic Armonia de Amor, the
infectious Antonia, and the lilting Dulce Amor. Chainga Langa and Felicidad
showcase their more upbeat and breezier side, while the emotive Jah Children,
with its superbly smoky sax solo, finds them at their most soulful. And even
those who speak no Spanish will find their souls stirred by Libertad, a number
as powerful as Bob Marleys Redemption Song. If one hasnt yet discovered the
delights of Gondwana, this is the perfect introduction. For those who have, but
havent completed their collections, this is a potent reminder to do so.

01 - Chainga Langa
02 - Felicidad
03 - Armonia de Amor
04 - Antonia
05 - Dulce Amor
06 - Jah Children
07 - Defendamos
08 - Sentimento Original
09 - La Barca
10 - Te Recuerdo Amanda
11 - Libertad

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