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THE MEDITATIONS
March 30, 1999
SOB's
New York City
A
cool, cool breeze on a sweltering day. That's what it felt like when the
Meditations danced onto the stage, closed their eyes and began singing "Nyah
Man Story." Their matchless harmonies floated over the crowd, reggae's
golden era returned in a flash, and the crowd began swaying like palm fronds
in that soothing breeze.The New York City performance kicked off a US tour promoting the trios' new album, GHETTO KNOWLEDGE, and struck a nice balance between classic and new material. "We're gonna do some new tunes from the album," promised Meditation Ansel, "but we aren't gonna leave out your favorites."
Whether classic or new, the Meditations imbue each song with meaning. Each man is a fine songwriter, and each sings lead vocals on his songs. Their voices are richer now, which is not a negative--it may be even better--and they continue to perform with joyous enthusiasm. Ansel Cridland still has the octave-skimming yodel, Winston Watson, the silvery falsetto, and Danny Clarke, the same mellow tones. But those used to the trappings of contemporary R&B groups--slick video-ready styling, profiling and endless vocalizing--won't find them here. Nothing superfluous gets in the way of the trios' dreamy harmonies. The Meditations are the real thing; a foundation group comprised of three individuals with nuff talent and style. Danny, a dignified looking man, wore a white suit trimmed in red, gold and green. Ansel, ready to fight the righteous fight, wore a camouflage shirt and hat with cargo pants. If it's true that when you "grow up" you get the face you deserve, then Ansel has the face of a man who loves life. And then there's Winston, clearly the group's free-spirit. Wearing shades, a knit cap, and vivid canary yellow pants and jacket, he delighted the crowd with his moves; a bird-like swoop here, a Travolta-esque pose there, and of course, the "Temptations Walk." There was plenty to look at, and plenty more to listen to.
Songs from the new album drew enthusiastic responses. "African Connection," and "The Police" received passionate, raised-arms receptions; both seem particularly resonant in the wake of the tragic murder of African immigrant Amadou Diallo by four N.Y.C. policemen. Danny moved to center stage on "Ghetto is a College," a tune with a catchy, rolling riddim and eloquent lyrics that illuminate the new album's title. It's a deeply affecting song, and though Danny sings it simply, his inflections carry heartfelt emotion. Ansel sang lead on his joyful love song "Never Desert You," and later on, Winston thrilled the massive when he took center mike and sang "Living On The Edge" in a dizzying falsetto.
A little over half way through the set, and a bit earlier than expected, one heard the unmistakable strains of a distinctive, drowsy riddim, and the group began their massive hit, "Woman is Like a Shadow." Around the third verse, a big suprise--Danny began DJing, toasting in the style of seminal DJ Ranking Joe. Then, in a blink, the man himself, Ranking Joe, bounded onstage, picked up the chorus, and he was singing! It was too cool, too wonderful. A fresh twist on "combination style" with the singer toasting, the toaster singing, and one wished it would go on forever. The final song was the group's boomshot "Running from Jamaica." The Tonic Band was vibrant, playing classic and new riddims with jump-up vigor.
Rob Symeonn set the show on a conscious course singing positive tunes like "Anything for Jah" in his pure tenor. Patrick Jr. followed, bringing lots of energy, though his set was a bit too long. Last up was DJ Chopper Ranks. The evening's MC was Jeff Sarge--a fitting choice--since his tri-state radio show "Reggae Schoolroom" takes listeners through reggae's rich history, and in the process, turns all into scholars.
The Meditations are noted for giving fans their money's worth in concert. This performance was no exception, lasting over an hour and a half during which all three men performed full-out. Fans who never got a chance to see Marley and the Wailers shouldn't miss the opportunity to see the Meditations live. Not only did the group harmonize with Marley and company on several tunes, including "Blackman Redemption," they're one of the few remaining harmony trios from that glorious period with all original members intact. Listening to the trio's music and seeing them in performance, one truly understands why reggae swept the world and Jah lives.
By Judy Hecker
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::
Sanchez :: Sugar Minott Dec 3, 2002 New York City ::
Jr Kelly ::
Frankie Paul ::
Sugar
Minott ::
The Meditations
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