Rootz Underground

From the Underground to the Limelight: Discovering Rootz Underground
If you love reggae music, then you have probably heard of Rootz Underground, the critically acclaimed band from Kingston, Jamaica. But who are they exactly and what is their story? In this article, we will dive deep into the musical biography of Rootz Underground, explore their unique sound and best songs, highlight some of their famous concerts, and provide a music critic's view of their work. Get ready to discover a band that is truly one of a kind!
Rootz Underground was formed in 2000 by six young musicians who shared a passion for reggae music. The group quickly gained recognition for their innovative sound that blended traditional reggae with elements of rock, soul, and blues. Their debut album, Movement, was released in 2008 and received critical acclaim for its socially conscious lyrics and catchy hooks. Since then, they have released several more albums, each one showcasing their evolution as artists and their commitment to advancing reggae music.
One of Rootz Underground's most distinctive features is their use of live instrumentation, which gives their music a raw and organic quality that is rare in today's music industry. Their sound is also characterized by the powerful vocals of lead singer Stephen Newland, the soul-stirring guitar riffs of Charles Lazarus, and the pounding rhythms of the percussion section. Together, they create a sound that is both uplifting and thought-provoking.
Some of Rootz Underground's best songs include Victims of the System, which addresses corruption and injustice in Jamaican society, Hammer, an anthem for the working class, and Farming, a tribute to the country's farmers who are often overlooked and undervalued. These songs demonstrate the band's commitment to using their music as a platform for social commentary and activism. They also showcase their ability to seamlessly blend different genres and create a sound that is uniquely their own.
In terms of performance, Rootz Underground is known for putting on electrifying shows that leave audiences spellbound. Their live shows often feature extended instrumental solos, call-and-response interactions with the crowd, and heartfelt speeches about social issues. One of their most famous concerts was at the 2008 Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, where they shared the stage with legends like Al Green, Gladys Knight, and Kenny Rogers. Their performance received rave reviews and cemented their status as one of Jamaica's best reggae bands.
But what do the critics think of Rootz Underground? According to music journalist Pat Meschino, Rootz Underground defies categorization and embodies the spirit of Jamaica's musical past while forging ahead with a fresh, new sound. Meschino also praises their lyrics, saying that they address real-life issues with artful language and soulful delivery. Other critics have highlighted their musicianship and ability to create a sound that appeals to both reggae purists and fans of other genres.
In summary, Rootz Underground is more than just a reggae band. Their sound, style, and message are all unique and captivating. They have gained a loyal following among music lovers around the world and have been praised by critics for their innovation and social consciousness. If you haven't discovered Rootz Underground yet, you're missing out on one of the best musical experiences out there. So, put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and prepare to be transported to the underground where good music thrives.
In summary, Rootz Underground is more than just a reggae band. Their sound, style, and message are all unique and captivating. They have gained a loyal following among music lovers around the world and have been praised by critics for their innovation and social consciousness. If you haven't discovered Rootz Underground yet, you're missing out on one of the best musical experiences out there. So, put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and prepare to be transported to the underground where good music thrives.