Deep In The Roots

Additional personnel: Tony Chin, Binghi Bunny (guitar); Arnold Breckinridge, Donald Vidan-Greaves, Enroy Grant (horns); Keith Sterling (keyboards); George "Fully" Fullwood (bass guitar); Leroy "Horsemouth" Wallace, Max Edwards, Sly Dunbar (drums); Bongo Herman (percussion).
Recording information: Channel One, Kingston, Jamaica.
Formed in 1965, the Heptones are one of the longest-lived reggae vocal groups. The trio's style masterfully displays a delicate balance between righteous Rasta conviction and smooth, gospel- and rhythm & blues-based harmonies (shades of the Impressions). While the production on DEEP IN THE ROOTS (by Niney the Observer) is tight and polished, the Heptones never stray from the classic sound of previous albums NIGHT FOOD and BETTER DAYS. "Jah Guide" and "Everyday Life" express and explore the contrast of the spiritual and the secular worlds, respectively, while maintaining that irresistible roots-reggae rhythm. The Heptones, on occasion, effortlessly adapt pop hits to their style--here, Tommy James & the Shondells' "Crystal Blue Persuasion" and Elvis Presley's "Suspicious Minds" sound like they were written exclusively for the band. As a bonus, there are a few extended mixes and instrumental dub versions, the latter dark and spacey yet melodious.