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MORGAN HERITAGE
May 19, 1998
SOB's
New York City
Morgan Heritage's reggae roots run deep. The five family members who comprise the group (Una, Peter, Mr. Mojo, Luke, and Gramps) are children of Jamaican roots singer Denroy Morgan, best known stateside for his crossover dance hit "I'll Do Anything For You."
Influenced perhaps by their father's biggest hit, MH released apop/reggae first album clearly aimed at both markets. It probably seemed like a good idea at the time, since MH's mellow vocals have a contemporary R&B feel to begin with, but the album didn't break out the way they'd hoped. So, as wise children often do, they returned to their roots, releasing PROTECT US JAH in 1997 and this year's ONE CALLING (both can be found on VP Records). By honoring their heritage, the grouph as earned critical and commercial success as well as a devoted following. Now they represent modern reggae at its best. Starting with their roots grounding, they add irresistible rhythms and lovelyharmonies, delivering a conscious, timely message. To that mix, they add the occasional R&B-flavored lover's rock ballad. The two most recent albums are expertly produced digital reggae and beloved by fans. Morgan Heritage enlisted veteran producers for both discs-Bobby "Digital" Dixon(with Denroy) on the first, and Lloyd "King Jammy" James on the latter. Yet as wonderful as both albums are, I sometimes miss the immediacy andtexture not always captured on smoothly produced studio albums. Havingseen a couple of tapes of the group's recent live performances, I sensedthat the group was not only impressive live, but dynamic as well.
That hunch was confirmed when the group performed recently at SOB's.They didn't feature just one charismatic performer and they didn't wear eye-catching stage attire (all that came later). The men wore overalls over black tees, while Una wore a dressier decorated work shirt with velvet pants. Instead, this musically gifted family let their talent andupful messages make their onstage statement. Most members sang, and allplayed instruments: Una and Gramps on keyboards, Mojo on bongos, and Luke on rhythm guitar (they were joined by a drummer and bassist). Peterhandled lead vocals front and center (and later drummed).
Morgan Heritage has been compared stylistically to Garnett Silk-an inspiration apparent when they sang a rousing version of "Splashing Dashing." Still, the family has their own distinct style. Their tight musicianship, beautifully blended harmonies and spiritual lyrics make them the musical equivalent of milk and honey. Brother Peter leads the group; he is a compelling, energetic and intense performer, with agrave, almost biblical face and a stirring voice. Gramps adds solos in a rich R&B tenor, and when he sang, the ladies swooned. Luke contributes catchy riffs and a serene presence. But to catch the essence of an MHperformance, the place to be is stage left-the side with sister Una in front and brother Mojo behind her working the bongos. Una is radiant;when she sings and plays, the riddim seems to flow right through her body. She's got the sensuous moves and velvety voice to match, while Mojo's driving beats power the music.
The group opened with a beautiful interpretation of "Rivers Of Babylon." Then, they upped the energy with the infectious "#1 Bingi Man" from their latest album and "Bubble In The Struggle." "Set Yourself Free" and "Let Them Talk" were both powerful, and "Give We A License" got thecrowd rocking. A high point of the set came when the group sang their own "Mama And Papa," then rode the same riddim into Sizzla's "Black Woman And Child." A potent pairing as well as a moving and masterful surprise. Surprising too was the group's performance of "Let's Make Up."They upped the song's tempo as Una and Gramps took center stage, dancing and singing together. A glance around the room revealed that fans love the ballads too; many sang right along.
Flyers for the show had promised "a special guest," and who it would be wasn't hard to guess: it was Papa Denroy. At show's end, Peter gave thanks to Dad (who has recently released a new disc on VP, SALVATION),and then introduced him. There was an onstage bustle as Una was joined by two female singers. Then out came Denroy, wearing a dazzling raspberry pink suit and a joyful expression, and they all launched into"I'll Do Anything For You." What a performer and what a performance! Best of all were the proud smiles on the kids' faces as Dad flashed his stuff, while Una and the girls did a perfect girl group routine (complete with choreography). Next, Denroy announced that they were gonna do the same song, new stylee. More bustling, brother Lazu jumpedout of the crowd and onto the stage and, joined by Mr. Mojo, rapped alongside Denroy, combination style. Whenever hip hop meets its cousin reggae, sparks fly and audiences love it. Catch this dynamite remix onDenroy's album.
The Morgans-brothers and sister, father and children-mashed it up. You can soothe and electrify your soul listening to the group's albums. Buttry to see Morgan Heritage live; you'll be in for a spiritual treat.
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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