Cornerstone Roots: Soul Evolution

(Herald rating: * * * )

Cornerstone Roots wave the flag for local reggae grounded in the 70s but which has an ear for the older ska traditions and a dub consciousness.

Niceness in the area, as they say. Singer Brian McMillan has a pleasing, warm voice and seems to have much to say beyond trying to decant the familiar Babylon/mash it up/oppression into an already overflowing bottle. That's still a component here but while most people don't pay much attention to reggae lyrics (because they are always about Babylon/mash it up/oppression) it's the leisurely, loping groove which attracts.

That's here in abundance and the classy musicianship keeps it tight and on target. But Cornerstone Roots advocate the family, self-awareness and integrity in the face of contemporary pressures. And Miracles will be a welcome statement of positivity for anyone who has grappled, or is grappling, with the sickness of a dependency. Worth listening up for.

(Label: Motherland/Chant)