 Bushman's latest release "Get It in Your Mind", on the Burning Bushes label, is the seventh album from this talented singer from St. Thomas, Jamaica. Bushman was born Dwight Duncan, in the hilltop village of Spring Garden. Raised as a Rasta from childhood, he sang in school, and his church choir which helped to develop his skill from an early age.
As a teenager Bushman, started selecting for the Black Star Line sound system, and at that time took the name Junior Melody. He sang in many local talent competitions, and began to sing dub plates for the local sound system Dj's. It wasn't until he traveled to Kingston, that he got his first big break with Steely and Clevie. It was also in Kingston that Junior Melody became "Bushman", the name he was given by Steely.
From the first time I listened to "Nyah Man Chant" (first album), to his most current release, I have always been impressed by Bushman's extraordinary vocal capabilities. When I listen to his songs I want to sing along with him, and I know I am not alone. Last fall, Bushman performed at the Monterey Bay Reggae Festival in California. While in the photo pit taking pictures I noticed just how many fans he had singing along, word for word.
The album starts off with a rocking tune, "Singing my Song", and Bushman requests, "let airwaves blaze redemption song" Conscious lyrics prevail, and Bushman sees to it. There is a brief radio interlude with Richie B, which leads into a powerful tune, "Rasta Nuh Dead." A message to heed, all dem crazy baldheads pure lie dem tell. "The black monarchy ever lives" This track was mixed at Harry J studios in Kingston.
"Source of Life" the third track sings praises to the mothers of civilization. Bless up all the mothers and daughters, giving life to mankind. "A woman is essential to me, she is the other half of me" sings Bushman. Track 5, "Nuttin Nah Gwaan" tells the story of ghetto reality. It is time to show some true compassion. There is no end to the greed displayed by Babylon shitstem. "Only the poorer class feel it"
Take a spiritual trip with Bushman, dash way di dragon, bun out all evil doer, and get lifted "Higher"(track 6) above the Babylon confusion. "Let the enemies be my footstool" Bushman asks Jah. Why worry bout dem heathen, when you can pray dem off. Another interlude from Bushman leads into the next track "Scent of a Man" recorded with the son of legendary foundation member Joe Gibbs. This song has a real classic reggae vibe, written and produced by Stephen "Gibbo" Gibbs.
"Get It in Your Mind" the album's soulful title track, has such a blessed sound. The harmony singers Rovletta Fraser and Nikki Burt add a well balanced sound to Bushman's heartical lyrics. Pure Niceness. The song "Can't Get the Best of Me" is on a popping dancehall riddim, with all the lyrical clarity you've come to expect from Bushman. "Their views I an I don't share…I an I nah scared of dem" he professes.
"Born Fi Di Ting" is another dancehall track that I have heard in clubs from Jamaica to California that appeals to the masses. An upbeat tempo, with the same consciousness delivered through a steady mic flow. This track shows the multi-faceted talents of Bushman. "Lyrics mi a fling" Yes Iyah! Lion roar.
Other tunes like "Set an example", gives an important message in this here time, and "When You Touch Me" is for di lovers. Bushman also pays tribute to Peter Tosh with "Buk-In-Ham-Palace" recorded at Tuff Gong studio with Sly and Robbie, Dean Fraser and Nadine Sutherland.
At the end of his album Bushman slows things down a bit with a nice acoustic track, "Call on Jah." The song features Bushman on guitar, and he is joined by Prince Jabba on vocals. This track sends the listener some positive vibes to go out into the world and be joyful. Call on Jah and H.I.M. will listen.
This album is a diverse collection of songs representing modern reggae, yet enriched with tradition, and Rastafari foundation. If you ever have the opportunity to see Bushman perform live, don't miss him. He is even more motivating and uplifting on stage. Bushman will be performing next month at the Western Consciousness 20th Anniversary concert in Sav-La-Mar, Jamaica.
Jah Guidance,
M. Patton
Big Up Radio Staff Writer
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CD Review: Bush Man - Get It in Your Mind
