 Last June at the Sierra Nevada World Music festival I had my first opportunity to see Mark Wonder perform live on stage. He carried a reverent presence while his impressive live vocals resonated with the audience as they all seemed to instantly take to his Rasta message.
Born in Kingston Jamaica, Mark Andrew Thompson, also known as Mark Wonder, credits his mother as an early influence in his musical journey. Exposing him to the Soul music she listened to, started Mark's musical foundation. He chose the name "Wonder", as homage to his favorite artist, Stevie Wonder.
Mark Wonder's new Cd titled "Victory-The Mystery Unfolds" is a solid volume of Roots Reggae that really showcases his talents in the studio. His lyrics are thought provoking, and motivational. Any true Roots fan will aprecilove his wisdom, grounded in Rastafari enlightenment.
From the first track "Liberation Song", Mark Wonder calls for Jah Children to "lace up your Gideon boots and come" and to "Rally round the ites gold and green". His message firmly guides the listener towards heights of reasoning.
"See Us Through" the albums second track, is a new ghetto people anthem. Let us not forget that the meek shall inherit the earth. Jah will provide. Mark Wonder acknowledges there is "no respect when you're coming from the gutters.
"We Shall Overcome" is a song that evokes many thoughts. From the brave civil rights marchers in the U.S. that sang the same message in the sixties, to the Rasta's trying to bring healing to bloodstained streets of Kingston Jamaica. Unity is strength, be strong my brothers and sisters.
On the track "Still Deh Deh" Lutan Fyah accompanies Mark Wonder singing out against the injustices towards humanity. Lutan proclaims "No matter what the politician a say poverty still deh deh" As Mark sings keep your heads up high, do something good with your life" Stay positive no matter what.
Another song featuring a guest singer is "Oh Woman (don't cry)" bringing together the "original fire man", Anthony B and Mark Wonder for an uplifting tune. "Brighter days are ahead" Mark consoles, as Tony B chants "you can always depend on your partner. Solid as a rock, I'll always be around"
The title track "Victory" has some sweet horns arrangements, with niyabinghi drummers supporting the purposeful lyrics. "No more shall the wicked reign over I and I", proclaims Mark. Wave your Red Gold and Green banner high! Be proud of your Rasta tradition. Trust in Jah and his glorious plan.
My favorite track is without question, "Thy Children Cry" it captures the essence of the golden era of Reggae music. The background vocals sound reminiscent of the early Abyssinians. As Mark drops some pure Rasta knowledge, the session band, Roller's All Star Band, does a superb job of building up the vibes contained within this track. Mixed at the world famous Big Ship Studio, I know this is going to be a longtime roots favorite. Sing this here one from the top of the mountains, "Adonai, hail Jah Rastafari"
You can learn more about Mark Wonder on his website www.markwonder.com, or check for him on myspace. Hearing Mark Wonder sing is as enjoyable as listening to Jah breeze blow, Jah birds sing, and Jah rain fall. Big Up to all involved in this creative project.
Jah Love Eternal,
M. Patton
bigupradio.com Staff Writer
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CD Review: Mark Wonder - Victory-The Mystery Unfolds
