Press & Reviews
What people say?
This was one real cool kick-backed listen. I found this music totally irresistible. There's a solid beat that is ever so rhythmic and 'groovy' and the organ sound is classic. Good vocals, a natural feel, and the meld of reggae, rock, pop, and even a bit of jazz make this CD a strong effort.
The album even has some nice steel drum and other tropical touches. Here hip dubs and nice moving beats make this a modern music with roots and senses found on classic island music releases. This was a truly enjoyable listen and is a fine addition to any great World Music collection!
The CRITICAL REVIEW Service
Irie Time is generous with the creativity. Categorically, this one would fall safely into the dub category. But if you listen closely, you can hear a lot of things going on here. Tinges of guitar psychedelia, blues, jazz, funk, retro rock, calypso - versatility is the word of the day for Irie Time. This is the band's sixth outing, so it's obviously doing something right. One listen to the CD will show you what. The increasing longevity of this independent act speaks well for its acceptance in the music community. The audience is obviously there. And why shouldn't it be? With its reggae-infused hybrid of styles, these dubmasters are ensured an avid audience for as long as the membership wishes to continue with the endeavor. Evocative vocals, delicious grooves, engaging guitar work, creativity, originality - really, all the right elements are here for success.
DJFix.com
Kristofer Upjohn, DJFix.com
One reggae term that was used a lot in the '70s and '80s but isn't heard as much in the 21st century is lovers rock, which describes reggae recordings that have a romantic focus instead of focusing on sociopolitical matters, the Rastafarian faith, or ganja. Gregory Isaacs' early-'80s smash "Night Nurse" was the quintessential lovers rock single; other prime examples of lovers rock include Bob Marley's "Waiting in Vain" and Jimmy Riley's remake of Hall & Oates' "Every Time You Go Away." While the term lovers rock has a '70s/'80s connotation, the basic idea remains many years later — and that idea is alive and well on It's About Time. This 2006 release recalls a pre-dancehall era in reggae but does so without a heavy sociopolitical focus; the lyrics are romantic in their outlook, bringing to mind the types of songs that Steel Pulse and Third World provided when they weren't addressing social and political concerns. Of course, Steel Pulse and Third World were known for a crossover sound; they were not reggae purists, and neither are the members of Irie Time. This Houston, TX-based outfit combines reggae with elements of pop, jazz, funk, and calypso; there is plenty of urban contemporary gloss on infectious tracks like "You Changed My Life" and "On the Right Track," and lead singer Scottie McDonald even sounds a bit like Simply Red's Mick Hucknall. Saying that Irie Time recall a time before dancehall's popularity exploded is not to say that they are unaffected by dancehall's predecessor dubwise; in fact, every one of the songs on this album is heard in a both a full vocal version and a dub version. Again, It's About Time was not recorded with reggae purists in mind, but those who fancy a crossover approach to pre-dancehall reggae will find a lot to like about this 47-minute disc.
ALL MUSIC GUIDE
Review by Alex Henderson
Harking back to the signature Jamaican reggae sound with some modern twists, Irie Time soaks Trenchtown in dub groove and jazzy R&B pop. You'll find yourself snapping your fingers, tapping your toes, and nodding your head to the infectious rhythms. Sometimes the vocals are a little too 'smooth jazz' quality with a bit too much reverb added. But once you shrug that off, you find a buried-waist-deep-in-melodies roots reggae album.
www.smother.net
J-Sin, www.smother.net
IRIE TIME/It's About Time: Under the radar yet on their 6th album, this crew from Houston makes such authentic dub you would think they were from the island. A tasty roots/reggae outing that finds them right in the proper party groove dishing up the proper vibe throughout. Driven by passion and a belief that music is the international language, this set simply cooks and is a must for all genre fans that want it hot, fast and right now.
180 (Inherent Music)
MIDWEST RECORD
Volume 30/Number MIDWEST RECORD RECAP 830 W. Route 22 #144 Lake Zurich, IL., 60047 CHRIS SPECTOR, Editor and Publisher (c)2006 Midwest Record
Themes of growth, transition and renewal---as well as old-fashioned love---inform Irie Time's It's About Time (Inherent Music). Lead singer Scottie McDonald combines singer/songwriter perspective with reggae backing informed by converging musical traditions of pop, r&b and contemporary jazz. Weaving his one-on-one vocals and tasty guitar parts through Laja Gbadegesin's multi-toned keys with able support from Greg Brown on drums and Jairus Mage on bass---and all three join in on backing vocals---McDonald reminds me at times of Mark Knopfler with a reggae beat. The tracks…are presented showcase style, with a corresponding dub to each song.
The BEAT magazine
Reggae Update by Chuck Foster, The BEAT magazine, Vol. 25, No. 5
Irie Time, Live Up! (Inherent Music) captures one of America's leading exponents of roots rock reggae with all-original songs like "Comin' Home," "Right Thing Now" and "Infinity Train" showcasing this four-piece (bass, drums, guitar and keyboards, with everybody but the drummer singing) in concert. Scottie McDonald, who sings lead and plays guitar, takes the band through sophisticated changes while the hard-driving riddims hold it steady. A little slice of sanity from the land where bushes sprout.
[P.O. Box 22947, Houston, TX 77227; www.irietime.com ]
The BEAT magazine
Chuck Foster, The BEAT magazine, Vol. 21, No. 5
Irie Time
Best Ska / Reggae
Scottie McDonald and the rest of Irie Time couldn't be feeling any more Irie at this point in their careers. Their new album, Live Up!, is finally out in stores not just in Houston but all over the country, and they are once again bouncing from stage to stage, serving up a blend of reggae, soca and dub grooves that's just about as refreshing as a bottle of Ting grapefruite soda on a sweltering Trenchtown summer day. The quartet is seeking management and label affiliations, so if anyone out there is looking for an 11-year-old reggae party band from Texas that can light a fire under the asses of even the most listless audience, then go to www.irietime.com and set up a meeting.--C.D.L. 4 p.m. Live Sports Cafe.
Best Ska / Reggae
Scottie McDonald and the rest of Irie Time couldn't be feeling any more Irie at this point in their careers. Their new album, Live Up!, is finally out in stores not just in Houston but all over the country, and they are once again bouncing from stage to stage, serving up a blend of reggae, soca and dub grooves that's just about as refreshing as a bottle of Ting grapefruite soda on a sweltering Trenchtown summer day. The quartet is seeking management and label affiliations, so if anyone out there is looking for an 11-year-old reggae party band from Texas that can light a fire under the asses of even the most listless audience, then go to www.irietime.com and set up a meeting.--C.D.L. 4 p.m. Live Sports Cafe.
The Houston Press
Music Awards (Nominees) Showcase Volume 14, Number 29, Page 12
Irie Time
Best World Music
It has officially been a decade, and Irie Time is still making people feel gosh-darn great every chance they get. Whether it's doing a weekend gig at the Hard Rock Cafe or being an opening act at a reggae festival, this quartet isn't content until it shows audiences just how irie it is. But these guys are looking to branch out. According to their Web site, www.irietime.com, they have been recording new tunes and looking for management and label affiliations. They also have a new CD, which is "being considered by a number of record labels." --C.D.L. Irie Time performs at 7 p.m. at Harlon's Bayou Blues.
Best World Music
It has officially been a decade, and Irie Time is still making people feel gosh-darn great every chance they get. Whether it's doing a weekend gig at the Hard Rock Cafe or being an opening act at a reggae festival, this quartet isn't content until it shows audiences just how irie it is. But these guys are looking to branch out. According to their Web site, www.irietime.com, they have been recording new tunes and looking for management and label affiliations. They also have a new CD, which is "being considered by a number of record labels." --C.D.L. Irie Time performs at 7 p.m. at Harlon's Bayou Blues.
THE HOUSTON PRESS
Music Awards Showcase Supplement Volume 13, Number 28, Page 11
The Hard Rock Cafe had it all Saturday, January 15, as Houston's own IRIE TIME took to the stage playing to a full house. Slingin' tunes from their soon-to-be released third CD, the band dished out a hearty helpin' of smooth Reggae and spicy Soca, sprinkled with just enough Ska to provide a well balanced musical offering.
Opening with a sizzling Soca instrumental, IRIE TIME delivered song after song of strong island-based music. This four-man group consists of Jairus Mage on bass and harmony vocals, Scottie McDonald on guitar and lead vocals, Eric Porter on drums and Lars Senuta on keyboards, percussion and harmony vocals. Each member adds a unique flavor to the band's sound, resulting in the creation of an ever-evolving melodic mix.
Jairus Mage, one of the hottest Reggae bassists I've sampled lately, draws influences from his Kenyan roots. His one-of-a-kind sound (played on a Warwick five-string) is the direct result of combining African rhythmic phrases with blues, modern jazz and funk.
Scottie McDonald's lead vocals and guitar work seemed uncommonly polished for Reggae, but this 15-year veteran of the genre wouldn't play it any other way. McDonald's a veteran of numerous trips to Jamaica, recording there with the likes of Earl 'Chinna' Smith, Squidley Cole and Chris Meridith (all from Ziggy Marley's Melody Makers band), Keith Sterling (former member of Peter Tosh's band and Black Uhuru) and Handel Tucker (Maxi Priest's right-hand musician.)
Drummer Eric Porter, throws competent jazz licks into the blend. Hot as a jalapeno on the 4th, this guy does more than keep the beat, he is da' beat. (With their relaxed stylings, Mage and Porter present one of the most solid rhythm sections around.)
Lars Senuta, a veteran keyboardist locally and nationally, serves up the majority of the group's solos, horn lines and rhythm. (He's performed in opening acts for major recording artists including Deborah Harry, Information Society, La Tour, and The Wailers Band.) Senuta's 'island' sound is the audible spice that transforms IRIE TIME's flavorful sound. Changing from strings to steel pan, sax to percussion, his style compliments the varying tempos and techniques involved in Reggae, Soca and Ska.
The band mixed original tunes with familiar Reggae and Soca numbers. The result is an Irie audience! (For those of you who need a little help with your Jamaican, the word Irie means "the state of feeling great.") Before the last burger was served, Hard Rock staffers and audience members alike seemed to be possessed by the spirit of Bob Marley - seats swayin', forks tappin' and positive energy blowing like a Jamaican breeze (with a slightly different aroma).
Want to feel good? Next time you see IRIE TIME on the menu, order yourself a big heaping helpin'. You can check out cuts from their latest album on the web at www.irietime.com. UB.
Jairus Mage, one of the hottest Reggae bassists I've sampled lately, draws influences from his Kenyan roots. His one-of-a-kind sound (played on a Warwick five-string) is the direct result of combining African rhythmic phrases with blues, modern jazz and funk.
Scottie McDonald's lead vocals and guitar work seemed uncommonly polished for Reggae, but this 15-year veteran of the genre wouldn't play it any other way. McDonald's a veteran of numerous trips to Jamaica, recording there with the likes of Earl 'Chinna' Smith, Squidley Cole and Chris Meridith (all from Ziggy Marley's Melody Makers band), Keith Sterling (former member of Peter Tosh's band and Black Uhuru) and Handel Tucker (Maxi Priest's right-hand musician.)
Drummer Eric Porter, throws competent jazz licks into the blend. Hot as a jalapeno on the 4th, this guy does more than keep the beat, he is da' beat. (With their relaxed stylings, Mage and Porter present one of the most solid rhythm sections around.)
Lars Senuta, a veteran keyboardist locally and nationally, serves up the majority of the group's solos, horn lines and rhythm. (He's performed in opening acts for major recording artists including Deborah Harry, Information Society, La Tour, and The Wailers Band.) Senuta's 'island' sound is the audible spice that transforms IRIE TIME's flavorful sound. Changing from strings to steel pan, sax to percussion, his style compliments the varying tempos and techniques involved in Reggae, Soca and Ska.
The band mixed original tunes with familiar Reggae and Soca numbers. The result is an Irie audience! (For those of you who need a little help with your Jamaican, the word Irie means "the state of feeling great.") Before the last burger was served, Hard Rock staffers and audience members alike seemed to be possessed by the spirit of Bob Marley - seats swayin', forks tappin' and positive energy blowing like a Jamaican breeze (with a slightly different aroma).
Want to feel good? Next time you see IRIE TIME on the menu, order yourself a big heaping helpin'. You can check out cuts from their latest album on the web at www.irietime.com. UB.
Hard Rock Cafe
URBAN BEAT Magazine Vol. 6, Issue 03, Page 17 Hard Rock Cafe's Saturday Night Special
Irie Time
Nomination: Best Reggae / World Music
Sound: Feel-good, culturally diverse reggae Time logged: Eight years
Etc.: Could there be a more upbeat, emphatic, unmistakably positive reggae band working the Houston scene today than Irie Time? If there is, don't let these guys know about it. This quartet's roots reggae mix has attracted fans not just in Texas, but also in Detroit and New Guinea. The band's fourth CD is scheduled to drop sometime this year, but those who are looking to sample some work can find song excerpts on the band's Web site, www.irietime.com.
Irie Time performs at 8 p.m. at TOC Bar Sunday.
Nomination: Best Reggae / World Music
Sound: Feel-good, culturally diverse reggae Time logged: Eight years
Etc.: Could there be a more upbeat, emphatic, unmistakably positive reggae band working the Houston scene today than Irie Time? If there is, don't let these guys know about it. This quartet's roots reggae mix has attracted fans not just in Texas, but also in Detroit and New Guinea. The band's fourth CD is scheduled to drop sometime this year, but those who are looking to sample some work can find song excerpts on the band's Web site, www.irietime.com.
Irie Time performs at 8 p.m. at TOC Bar Sunday.
Houston Press music awards
THE HOUSTON PRESS Volume 11, Number 28 Houston Press Music Awards
ThisWeek Correspondent
"Irie!" is what people say in Jamaica when they are feeling great. Musicians performing rocking Reggae music call out from stage, "Are you feeling Irie?" And the resounding audience reply is always, "Yeah!"
Irie Time, a Houston-based band, has just released their second CD, and will be appearing this month at the Houston International Festival. Their mixture of uplifting, feel-good songs can make anyone indeed feel "Irie" or feel as if they were on a summer holiday in the Caribbean. Irie Time's music invokes catchy rhythms that seem to demand getting up and dancing. However, below the surface are more serious and poignant messages about matters such as love, peace, and unity.
"The Jamaican patois word, Irie (pronounced eye-ree ), actually originates from the Rastafarian, 'I and I', which translates to the colloquial 'you and me'," said Scottie McDonald, lead vocalist for the group. "Rasta speech eliminates words like 'you', 'me', 'we', and 'they', as divisive and replaces them with the more communal 'I and I'. 'I and I' is believed to embrace all people in unity with the Most I (high) and in an endless circle of inity (unity).' So, if there is a theme for Reggae music and for our music, it would certainly have to be unity."
All philosophy aside, Irie Time sees themselves especially as a "good-time" band. "Our music is meant to be up and positive, and above all, to make audiences 'move their feet'," McDonald said.
"There is a word, 'skank,' that is used to describe the easy-sway, walk-on-one-spot movements that are seen at Reggae dances, and it is something that seems to come naturally to everyone," McDonald said. "The beat is so universal, so integral. I have even seen my seventy-year-old grandmother begin to skank when she hears our music! Reggae often seems like one's own heartbeat, and some even consider the Reggae beat itself spiritual."
For Irie Time the main message, however, is in the song lyrics, and the band's latest CD is laden with hopeful words about love and peace. Their song, "Love's Return," states, "It's just love that lasts forever... Only love lasts forever." In "A Love Like Yours" they sing, "It (love) is the reason for all life."
But lest they get too serious, the group includes invigorating Soca tunes whenever they can. "Soca is the style most people associate with the Caribbean. The energy of Soca music is infectious," McDonald said. "Soca developed when what used to be called 'calypso' back in the days of Belafonte got an injection of 'soul'. That gave rise to the name -- 'so' from soul, and 'ca' from calypso."
"Many people identify with the Trinidadian song, 'Hot Hot Hot', as the epitome of Soca music: 'Hands in the air... celebration time. Music's sweet ... captivates your mind .. We have this party song .. Have fun down at the jam.' Those kind of lyrics really convey the spirit of our band. We rarely see anyone not tapping their feet to this music, and nothing fills the dance floor like a good Soca number. When people are happy and dancing, we know we've done what we set out to do," McDonald said.
Irie Time consists of four culturally diverse musicians who play keyboards, bass, guitar, and drums, respectively. Lars Senuta, the group's keyboardist and harmony vocalist, also plays various percussion instruments, and provides the pan steel sound so characteristic of Caribbean music. Robert 'Kuti' Finch is a drummer who has backed numerous Jamaican 'superstars' over the years, and is the solid foundation for the band's sound. Irie Time features Jairus Mage from Kenya, East Africa on bass guitar and harmony vocals, and Scottie McDonald plays guitar for the band as well as doing lead vocals. McDonald's collaboration with legend guitarist, Earl 'Chinna' Smith of Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, yielded the band's first CD which was recorded in Kingston, Jamaica.
"All of us, as musicians, are all so wrapped up in this island music thing. It's addictive. It has such a great, uplifting feel to it," McDonald said.
The song 'Island Romance' from the group's new CD single probably best captures their feelings: "I want to go to the Saturday dance... I want to have an island romance... I want to be where the coconut grows... Brown-skinned girl I'll never let you go... Take me away...take me away to stay...Take me away...take me away today!"
"Our finest reward is when we perform and when we make others feel as good and positive as we do about our music. The best times are when it truly becomes an 'Irie' time for all," McDonald said.
The band sells their CD's at performances only. For itinerary information, email Irie Time. They will be appearing at the Houston International Festival on Saturday, April 29th from 7:30 to 8:30 pm on the World Music stage. Irie!
"Irie!" is what people say in Jamaica when they are feeling great. Musicians performing rocking Reggae music call out from stage, "Are you feeling Irie?" And the resounding audience reply is always, "Yeah!"
Irie Time, a Houston-based band, has just released their second CD, and will be appearing this month at the Houston International Festival. Their mixture of uplifting, feel-good songs can make anyone indeed feel "Irie" or feel as if they were on a summer holiday in the Caribbean. Irie Time's music invokes catchy rhythms that seem to demand getting up and dancing. However, below the surface are more serious and poignant messages about matters such as love, peace, and unity.
"The Jamaican patois word, Irie (pronounced eye-ree ), actually originates from the Rastafarian, 'I and I', which translates to the colloquial 'you and me'," said Scottie McDonald, lead vocalist for the group. "Rasta speech eliminates words like 'you', 'me', 'we', and 'they', as divisive and replaces them with the more communal 'I and I'. 'I and I' is believed to embrace all people in unity with the Most I (high) and in an endless circle of inity (unity).' So, if there is a theme for Reggae music and for our music, it would certainly have to be unity."
All philosophy aside, Irie Time sees themselves especially as a "good-time" band. "Our music is meant to be up and positive, and above all, to make audiences 'move their feet'," McDonald said.
"There is a word, 'skank,' that is used to describe the easy-sway, walk-on-one-spot movements that are seen at Reggae dances, and it is something that seems to come naturally to everyone," McDonald said. "The beat is so universal, so integral. I have even seen my seventy-year-old grandmother begin to skank when she hears our music! Reggae often seems like one's own heartbeat, and some even consider the Reggae beat itself spiritual."
For Irie Time the main message, however, is in the song lyrics, and the band's latest CD is laden with hopeful words about love and peace. Their song, "Love's Return," states, "It's just love that lasts forever... Only love lasts forever." In "A Love Like Yours" they sing, "It (love) is the reason for all life."
But lest they get too serious, the group includes invigorating Soca tunes whenever they can. "Soca is the style most people associate with the Caribbean. The energy of Soca music is infectious," McDonald said. "Soca developed when what used to be called 'calypso' back in the days of Belafonte got an injection of 'soul'. That gave rise to the name -- 'so' from soul, and 'ca' from calypso."
"Many people identify with the Trinidadian song, 'Hot Hot Hot', as the epitome of Soca music: 'Hands in the air... celebration time. Music's sweet ... captivates your mind .. We have this party song .. Have fun down at the jam.' Those kind of lyrics really convey the spirit of our band. We rarely see anyone not tapping their feet to this music, and nothing fills the dance floor like a good Soca number. When people are happy and dancing, we know we've done what we set out to do," McDonald said.
Irie Time consists of four culturally diverse musicians who play keyboards, bass, guitar, and drums, respectively. Lars Senuta, the group's keyboardist and harmony vocalist, also plays various percussion instruments, and provides the pan steel sound so characteristic of Caribbean music. Robert 'Kuti' Finch is a drummer who has backed numerous Jamaican 'superstars' over the years, and is the solid foundation for the band's sound. Irie Time features Jairus Mage from Kenya, East Africa on bass guitar and harmony vocals, and Scottie McDonald plays guitar for the band as well as doing lead vocals. McDonald's collaboration with legend guitarist, Earl 'Chinna' Smith of Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, yielded the band's first CD which was recorded in Kingston, Jamaica.
"All of us, as musicians, are all so wrapped up in this island music thing. It's addictive. It has such a great, uplifting feel to it," McDonald said.
The song 'Island Romance' from the group's new CD single probably best captures their feelings: "I want to go to the Saturday dance... I want to have an island romance... I want to be where the coconut grows... Brown-skinned girl I'll never let you go... Take me away...take me away to stay...Take me away...take me away today!"
"Our finest reward is when we perform and when we make others feel as good and positive as we do about our music. The best times are when it truly becomes an 'Irie' time for all," McDonald said.
The band sells their CD's at performances only. For itinerary information, email Irie Time. They will be appearing at the Houston International Festival on Saturday, April 29th from 7:30 to 8:30 pm on the World Music stage. Irie!
Houston Chronicle article
HOUSTON CHRONICLE Irie Time Means Fun by Joyce Clark
Reggae fest
Watch for the Houston-based reggae band Irie Time onstage at 7:30 tonight at the annual Bob Marley Festival. The festival - featuring more than 20 bands, a skateboard contest and caribbean food - will be noon-10:15 p.m. today and Sunday at Buffalo Bayou Park, just west of downtown between Allen Parkway and Memorial Drive. Admission is free, but organizers urge donations of $3-$5 in cash or non-perishable foods for the Jasa House Domestic Violence Center.
Watch for the Houston-based reggae band Irie Time onstage at 7:30 tonight at the annual Bob Marley Festival. The festival - featuring more than 20 bands, a skateboard contest and caribbean food - will be noon-10:15 p.m. today and Sunday at Buffalo Bayou Park, just west of downtown between Allen Parkway and Memorial Drive. Admission is free, but organizers urge donations of $3-$5 in cash or non-perishable foods for the Jasa House Domestic Violence Center.
Chronicle 'Hits of the Week'
HOUSTON CHRONICLE Hits of the Week
Irie Time
Nomination: Best Reggae / World Music
Sound: Feel-good, culturally diverse reggae Time logged: Eight years
Etc.: Could there be a more upbeat, emphatic, unmistakably positive reggae band working the Houston scene today than Irie Time? If there is, don't let these guys know about it. This quartet's roots reggae mix has attracted fans not just in Texas, but also in Detroit and New Guinea. The band's fourth CD is scheduled to drop sometime this year, but those who are looking to sample some work can find song excerpts on the band's Web site, www.irietime.com.
Irie Time performs at 8 p.m. at TOC Bar Sunday.
Nomination: Best Reggae / World Music
Sound: Feel-good, culturally diverse reggae Time logged: Eight years
Etc.: Could there be a more upbeat, emphatic, unmistakably positive reggae band working the Houston scene today than Irie Time? If there is, don't let these guys know about it. This quartet's roots reggae mix has attracted fans not just in Texas, but also in Detroit and New Guinea. The band's fourth CD is scheduled to drop sometime this year, but those who are looking to sample some work can find song excerpts on the band's Web site, www.irietime.com.
Irie Time performs at 8 p.m. at TOC Bar Sunday.
Houston Press music awards
THE HOUSTON PRESS Volume 11, Number 28 Houston Press Music Awards
IRIE TIME
IRIE TIME
Inherent Music
***
The self-titled debut release from Irie Time, the Houston reggae quartet formerly established as Island Time, is a fusion of reggae/rock/jazz/pop/soca influenced "island" music. Four original compositions, plus three dubs and one extended version, add up to eight tracks of solid, high energy entertainment.
Irie Time, the band, is composed of four veteran musicians. Robert Finch, aka Ahmed "Kuti" Dread, is the drummer and harmony vocalist and has been a part of the Houston reggae scene for many years. Bass and harmony vocals are provided by Jairus Mage, an experienced musician who has just arrived from Kenya.
Keyboardist and harmony vocalist Lars Senuta comes from a jazz/house/pop/reggae background.
Scottie McDonald, is the guitarist and lead vocalist.
Irie Time, the recording, opens with a supremely danceable reggae number entitled A Love Like Yours which is upbeat and positive. Island Romance keeps your toes more than tappin' to its lively soca rhythm; it was the band's soca songs that got the crowd onto the dance floor at a recent performance at Yaga's.
Keeping up the pace comes Won't You Come Love Me, a dancehall-edged pop/ rock/reggae melange that defies categorization. Love's Return takes a more relaxed approach to the music; its steady roots rhythm and almost orchestral instrumentation mesh beautifully with the song's loving lyrics. Won't You Come Dub Me, A Dub Like Yours and Dub Return each explore and expand upon the original compositions' musical themes. Irie Time draws to a conclusion with a grand finale soca explosion; the extended version of Island Romance ends the recording with a flair.
I encourage reggae fans to take advantage of this exciting local production and lend their support to the Houston music community by picking up a copy of Irie Time's Irie Time. It's available at Houston area record shops or directly from the band by mail. Write to Irie Time/lnherent Music, P.O. Box 22947, Houston, TX 77227, USA.
IRIE TIME
Inherent Music
***
The self-titled debut release from Irie Time, the Houston reggae quartet formerly established as Island Time, is a fusion of reggae/rock/jazz/pop/soca influenced "island" music. Four original compositions, plus three dubs and one extended version, add up to eight tracks of solid, high energy entertainment.
Irie Time, the band, is composed of four veteran musicians. Robert Finch, aka Ahmed "Kuti" Dread, is the drummer and harmony vocalist and has been a part of the Houston reggae scene for many years. Bass and harmony vocals are provided by Jairus Mage, an experienced musician who has just arrived from Kenya.
Keyboardist and harmony vocalist Lars Senuta comes from a jazz/house/pop/reggae background.
Scottie McDonald, is the guitarist and lead vocalist.
Irie Time, the recording, opens with a supremely danceable reggae number entitled A Love Like Yours which is upbeat and positive. Island Romance keeps your toes more than tappin' to its lively soca rhythm; it was the band's soca songs that got the crowd onto the dance floor at a recent performance at Yaga's.
Keeping up the pace comes Won't You Come Love Me, a dancehall-edged pop/ rock/reggae melange that defies categorization. Love's Return takes a more relaxed approach to the music; its steady roots rhythm and almost orchestral instrumentation mesh beautifully with the song's loving lyrics. Won't You Come Dub Me, A Dub Like Yours and Dub Return each explore and expand upon the original compositions' musical themes. Irie Time draws to a conclusion with a grand finale soca explosion; the extended version of Island Romance ends the recording with a flair.
I encourage reggae fans to take advantage of this exciting local production and lend their support to the Houston music community by picking up a copy of Irie Time's Irie Time. It's available at Houston area record shops or directly from the band by mail. Write to Irie Time/lnherent Music, P.O. Box 22947, Houston, TX 77227, USA.
Urban Beat CD review
Urban Beat Vol. 1, Issue 4
Urban Beat Vol. 1, Issue 4
Kathy Todd
International crew meets in Houston for an Irie Time
I-rie \I'-ree\ adj. [Rasta/Jamaican patois] 1: powerful and pleasing 2: excellent, highest 3 n: the state of feeling great.
The band's the strongest it's ever been," comments Scottie McDonald of Irie Time, a local reggae band. "We're very focused now and know where we want to go." With a new self-titled CD single out, and some promising label interest, McDonald is pleased the band is over its early growing pains caused by turnover and personal agendas.
Reggae has been a year-round pursuit for McDonald for the last nine years. The band also plays ska and soca, a variation of calypso. He studied voice and theory at the University of St. Thomas and Rice University. He has released two albums and four singles with various groups over the years, and recorded their last album in Kingston, Jamaica under the guidance of top industry producers and engineers. His collaboration with legendary guitarist, Earl 'Chinna' Smith of Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, gained him substantial recognition with their 'Island Romance' album, released in 1991. Irie Time's latest CD further demonstrates the band's continued vibrant presence in Houston and regionally.
The CD is a light and breezy collection of eight reggae and soca cuts, inclusive of dub trax and one xtended play. "A Love Like Yours," the first track, is a strong, rootsy statement coming from the heart. Tuff drum line, cripsy bass, and a well fitted piano rift rounds it out. And the dub track 'Won't You Come Dub Me," with its sweet drum line, is smooth and authentic, like spicy jerk chicken.
See the CD review in the review section.
Irie Time's other band members are keyboardist Lars Senuta, who has worked with several prominent bands, with styles ranging from jazz to reggae to pop. He has performed in opening acts for major artists including Deborah Harry, Information Society, and La Tour. Lars was drawn into reggae as a result of his on-going fascination with the music of Bob Marley.
Jairus Mage, bassist, is from Kenya, and has performed with a number of African bands, and has explored a variety of musical styles including jazz, funk, and of course, African music. Once he discovered reggae, he decided to come to the US where he realized the music was strong and growing.
Ahmed 'Kuti' Dread, drummer, is a veteran drummer on the reggae scene. He has backed such classic Jamaican artists as Ken Boothe and Leroy Sibbles. He's opened for numerous legendary acts including The Wailers, Third World, Burning Spear, and Steel Pulse.
The band will be busy for the rest of the year promoting the album and touring. In April alone, they'll be playing at Yaga's (Houston) on the first, in Tucson, Arizona, on the fifteenth, at the Houston International Festival on the 28th, and at the Bob Marley Tour in Austin on the 23rd.
You may find out more about the band or purchase the CD by writing P.O. Box 22947, Houston, 77227.
I-rie \I'-ree\ adj. [Rasta/Jamaican patois] 1: powerful and pleasing 2: excellent, highest 3 n: the state of feeling great.
The band's the strongest it's ever been," comments Scottie McDonald of Irie Time, a local reggae band. "We're very focused now and know where we want to go." With a new self-titled CD single out, and some promising label interest, McDonald is pleased the band is over its early growing pains caused by turnover and personal agendas.
Reggae has been a year-round pursuit for McDonald for the last nine years. The band also plays ska and soca, a variation of calypso. He studied voice and theory at the University of St. Thomas and Rice University. He has released two albums and four singles with various groups over the years, and recorded their last album in Kingston, Jamaica under the guidance of top industry producers and engineers. His collaboration with legendary guitarist, Earl 'Chinna' Smith of Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, gained him substantial recognition with their 'Island Romance' album, released in 1991. Irie Time's latest CD further demonstrates the band's continued vibrant presence in Houston and regionally.
The CD is a light and breezy collection of eight reggae and soca cuts, inclusive of dub trax and one xtended play. "A Love Like Yours," the first track, is a strong, rootsy statement coming from the heart. Tuff drum line, cripsy bass, and a well fitted piano rift rounds it out. And the dub track 'Won't You Come Dub Me," with its sweet drum line, is smooth and authentic, like spicy jerk chicken.
See the CD review in the review section.
Irie Time's other band members are keyboardist Lars Senuta, who has worked with several prominent bands, with styles ranging from jazz to reggae to pop. He has performed in opening acts for major artists including Deborah Harry, Information Society, and La Tour. Lars was drawn into reggae as a result of his on-going fascination with the music of Bob Marley.
Jairus Mage, bassist, is from Kenya, and has performed with a number of African bands, and has explored a variety of musical styles including jazz, funk, and of course, African music. Once he discovered reggae, he decided to come to the US where he realized the music was strong and growing.
Ahmed 'Kuti' Dread, drummer, is a veteran drummer on the reggae scene. He has backed such classic Jamaican artists as Ken Boothe and Leroy Sibbles. He's opened for numerous legendary acts including The Wailers, Third World, Burning Spear, and Steel Pulse.
The band will be busy for the rest of the year promoting the album and touring. In April alone, they'll be playing at Yaga's (Houston) on the first, in Tucson, Arizona, on the fifteenth, at the Houston International Festival on the 28th, and at the Bob Marley Tour in Austin on the 23rd.
You may find out more about the band or purchase the CD by writing P.O. Box 22947, Houston, 77227.
Urban Beat article
Urban Beat Vol. 1, Issue 4
Rasta rhythm in the city
Irie Time brings carefree Jamaican spirit, sound to Houston audiences
By Heather Korb
ThisWeek Entertainment correspondent
Scottie McDonald is wailing away about love, singing along to the hypnotic beats of the reggae rhythm. He's wearing bright yellow pants and a red and yellow tropical print shirt. This pale, thin musician's meandering voice caresses the listener like a balmy breeze on a lazy summer night.
McDonald plays guitar and is the lead singer of Irie Time, a band that bills itself as a "reggae-rock act." The band also plays ska and soca, variations of reggae music. McDonald chose to play reggae because he believes in the music’s message. "It's happy music," he said. "It satisfies a wide audience."
Unfortunately that audience is more limited in the winter. People tend to associate reggae with the tropics. As a result, Irie Time plays up a storm in the summer, but tends to hit dry ground when the winter comes.
To compensate for this freezing up of performance opportunities, Irie Time uses the winter to work on songwriting and recording.
Reggae has been a year-round pursuit for McDonald for the past eight years. Raised on rock music, he studied voice and music theory at the University of St. Thomas and Rice University. He went to Jamaica in the early 1980s and the experience directly affected his musical career. "It was good and clean," he said. "The whole vibe was a good feeling."
McDonald was initially attracted to the spirituality of reggae music. "I try to keep them (the lyrics) positive. It's part of the reggae-Rasta bag. If a word is negative, we don't use it. Instead of saying 'understand', we'll use 'overstand'," he said.
Reggae lyrics have also been associated with the human rights movement and McDonald feels that he's helping promote human rights through his music. "Everyone has a responsibility to do something about human rights and racism," he said.
In 1991, McDonald recorded tracks in Kingston, Jamaica with reggae producer and guitarist Earl 'Chinna' Smith. McDonald met Smith at a Ziggy Marley concert. Born in Jamaica, Smith was a founding member of the Soul Syndicate, one of the groups responsible for the development of reggae music on the island. Smith was impressed with Irie Time's single Lost in Love and became interested in collaborating.
McDonald said the reggae music itself developed through a "collaborative" process. "Jamaicans picked up New Orleans' radio stations at the turn of the century. Reggae is a music that originated from rhythm and blues. American rap developed from Jamaican dancehall disc jockeys rapping over reggae beats."
McDonald's own cross-cultural collaboration with Smith was an enlightening experience. "He’s a devout Rasta… He doesn't hold back. Everything is right out front all the time," McDonald said.
The band is currently working on a new CD that will reflect its recent evolution. The members of Irie Time are planning to spend the approaching winter months once again writing and recording for this new project. Look for Irie Time to burst from the chrysalis of creative hibernation by spring and be in full bloom when the hot summer breezes begin to blow.
Irie Time brings carefree Jamaican spirit, sound to Houston audiences
By Heather Korb
ThisWeek Entertainment correspondent
Scottie McDonald is wailing away about love, singing along to the hypnotic beats of the reggae rhythm. He's wearing bright yellow pants and a red and yellow tropical print shirt. This pale, thin musician's meandering voice caresses the listener like a balmy breeze on a lazy summer night.
McDonald plays guitar and is the lead singer of Irie Time, a band that bills itself as a "reggae-rock act." The band also plays ska and soca, variations of reggae music. McDonald chose to play reggae because he believes in the music’s message. "It's happy music," he said. "It satisfies a wide audience."
Unfortunately that audience is more limited in the winter. People tend to associate reggae with the tropics. As a result, Irie Time plays up a storm in the summer, but tends to hit dry ground when the winter comes.
To compensate for this freezing up of performance opportunities, Irie Time uses the winter to work on songwriting and recording.
Reggae has been a year-round pursuit for McDonald for the past eight years. Raised on rock music, he studied voice and music theory at the University of St. Thomas and Rice University. He went to Jamaica in the early 1980s and the experience directly affected his musical career. "It was good and clean," he said. "The whole vibe was a good feeling."
McDonald was initially attracted to the spirituality of reggae music. "I try to keep them (the lyrics) positive. It's part of the reggae-Rasta bag. If a word is negative, we don't use it. Instead of saying 'understand', we'll use 'overstand'," he said.
Reggae lyrics have also been associated with the human rights movement and McDonald feels that he's helping promote human rights through his music. "Everyone has a responsibility to do something about human rights and racism," he said.
In 1991, McDonald recorded tracks in Kingston, Jamaica with reggae producer and guitarist Earl 'Chinna' Smith. McDonald met Smith at a Ziggy Marley concert. Born in Jamaica, Smith was a founding member of the Soul Syndicate, one of the groups responsible for the development of reggae music on the island. Smith was impressed with Irie Time's single Lost in Love and became interested in collaborating.
McDonald said the reggae music itself developed through a "collaborative" process. "Jamaicans picked up New Orleans' radio stations at the turn of the century. Reggae is a music that originated from rhythm and blues. American rap developed from Jamaican dancehall disc jockeys rapping over reggae beats."
McDonald's own cross-cultural collaboration with Smith was an enlightening experience. "He’s a devout Rasta… He doesn't hold back. Everything is right out front all the time," McDonald said.
The band is currently working on a new CD that will reflect its recent evolution. The members of Irie Time are planning to spend the approaching winter months once again writing and recording for this new project. Look for Irie Time to burst from the chrysalis of creative hibernation by spring and be in full bloom when the hot summer breezes begin to blow.
Houston Chronicle article
HOUSTON CHRONICLE
ThisWeek
Entertainment
ThisWeek
Entertainment
International crew meets in Houston for an Irie Time
I-rie \I'-ree\ adj. [Rasta/Jamaican patois] 1: powerful and pleasing 2: excellent, highest 3 n: the state of feeling great.
The band's the strongest it's ever been," comments Scottie McDonald of Irie Time, a local reggae band. "We're very focused now and know where we want to go." With a new self-titled CD single out, and some promising label interest, McDonald is pleased the band is over its early growing pains caused by turnover and personal agendas.
Reggae has been a year-round pursuit for McDonald for the last nine years. The band also plays ska and soca, a variation of calypso. He studied voice and theory at the University of St. Thomas and Rice University. He has released two albums and four singles with various groups over the years, and recorded their last album in Kingston, Jamaica under the guidance of top industry producers and engineers. His collaboration with legendary guitarist, Earl 'Chinna' Smith of Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, gained him substantial recognition with their 'Island Romance' album, released in 1991. Irie Time's latest CD further demonstrates the band's continued vibrant presence in Houston and regionally.
The CD is a light and breezy collection of eight reggae and soca cuts, inclusive of dub trax and one xtended play. "A Love Like Yours," the first track, is a strong, rootsy statement coming from the heart. Tuff drum line, cripsy bass, and a well fitted piano rift rounds it out. And the dub track 'Won't You Come Dub Me," with its sweet drum line, is smooth and authentic, like spicy jerk chicken.
See the CD review in the review section.
Irie Time's other band members are keyboardist Lars Senuta, who has worked with several prominent bands, with styles ranging from jazz to reggae to pop. He has performed in opening acts for major artists including Deborah Harry, Information Society, and La Tour. Lars was drawn into reggae as a result of his on-going fascination with the music of Bob Marley.
Jairus Mage, bassist, is from Kenya, and has performed with a number of African bands, and has explored a variety of musical styles including jazz, funk, and of course, African music. Once he discovered reggae, he decided to come to the US where he realized the music was strong and growing.
Ahmed 'Kuti' Dread, drummer, is a veteran drummer on the reggae scene. He has backed such classic Jamaican artists as Ken Boothe and Leroy Sibbles. He's opened for numerous legendary acts including The Wailers, Third World, Burning Spear, and Steel Pulse.
The band will be busy for the rest of the year promoting the album and touring. In April alone, they'll be playing at Yaga's (Houston) on the first, in Tucson, Arizona, on the fifteenth, at the Houston International Festival on the 28th, and at the Bob Marley Tour in Austin on the 23rd.
You may find out more about the band or purchase the CD by writing P.O. Box 22947, Houston, 77227.
I-rie \I'-ree\ adj. [Rasta/Jamaican patois] 1: powerful and pleasing 2: excellent, highest 3 n: the state of feeling great.
The band's the strongest it's ever been," comments Scottie McDonald of Irie Time, a local reggae band. "We're very focused now and know where we want to go." With a new self-titled CD single out, and some promising label interest, McDonald is pleased the band is over its early growing pains caused by turnover and personal agendas.
Reggae has been a year-round pursuit for McDonald for the last nine years. The band also plays ska and soca, a variation of calypso. He studied voice and theory at the University of St. Thomas and Rice University. He has released two albums and four singles with various groups over the years, and recorded their last album in Kingston, Jamaica under the guidance of top industry producers and engineers. His collaboration with legendary guitarist, Earl 'Chinna' Smith of Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, gained him substantial recognition with their 'Island Romance' album, released in 1991. Irie Time's latest CD further demonstrates the band's continued vibrant presence in Houston and regionally.
The CD is a light and breezy collection of eight reggae and soca cuts, inclusive of dub trax and one xtended play. "A Love Like Yours," the first track, is a strong, rootsy statement coming from the heart. Tuff drum line, cripsy bass, and a well fitted piano rift rounds it out. And the dub track 'Won't You Come Dub Me," with its sweet drum line, is smooth and authentic, like spicy jerk chicken.
See the CD review in the review section.
Irie Time's other band members are keyboardist Lars Senuta, who has worked with several prominent bands, with styles ranging from jazz to reggae to pop. He has performed in opening acts for major artists including Deborah Harry, Information Society, and La Tour. Lars was drawn into reggae as a result of his on-going fascination with the music of Bob Marley.
Jairus Mage, bassist, is from Kenya, and has performed with a number of African bands, and has explored a variety of musical styles including jazz, funk, and of course, African music. Once he discovered reggae, he decided to come to the US where he realized the music was strong and growing.
Ahmed 'Kuti' Dread, drummer, is a veteran drummer on the reggae scene. He has backed such classic Jamaican artists as Ken Boothe and Leroy Sibbles. He's opened for numerous legendary acts including The Wailers, Third World, Burning Spear, and Steel Pulse.
The band will be busy for the rest of the year promoting the album and touring. In April alone, they'll be playing at Yaga's (Houston) on the first, in Tucson, Arizona, on the fifteenth, at the Houston International Festival on the 28th, and at the Bob Marley Tour in Austin on the 23rd.
You may find out more about the band or purchase the CD by writing P.O. Box 22947, Houston, 77227.
Urban Beat article
Urban Beat Vol. 1, Issue 4
