CD Review: Abja – Mahogany Road

Abja’s Mahogany Road is another I-Grade production outta Christiansted, St. Croix, USVI. Released in 2006 the album showcases another great roots reggae talent from the island that continues to blaze a new fya of consciousness. Mahogany road pays tribute to the largest island in the Virgin islands.  On the western end of St. Croix rising 1096′ above sea level is Blue mountain where a lush rain forest of saman, tibet  and mahogany trees grow.

The title track song “Mahogany Road” clearly revels where this singer gets his meditation from. What I like most about Abja is his delivery of lyrics, his timing coupled with a strong message grounded in Rastafari teachings. Listen to the track “Preservation of the I” to overstand what I am referring too.  Abja sings “Black in America portrayed, through my lion eyes” and I just get chills by his very real lyrical descriptions.

The tune called “One Shot” has a sweet horns section accompanying Abja,  Million 7 Horns. Background vocals are Yahadanai, Angelique and Tippy. The producer, Tuff Lion, is also featured playing drums, organ, and guitars. Kenyatta is on bass. This is a prime example of why St. Croix roots reggae music is so popular with the people today. These musicians and singers put together some nice vibes.

There are two tracks featuring guest singers NiyoRah on “Good Vibez”, and Ras Attitude on Jah Love. Good Vibez is a great collaboration between two great singers Abja and NiyoRah! As they sing “check this version as we chant it down, burn your herbs and pass it around, listen to this tune from the ancient sound” Yes I, good vibez indeed! On the track “Jah Love” Abja and Ras Attitude pay raspect to the father. “Jah love is like a rain cloud that showers the world”

The song  “Danger Zone” discusses the hardships facing those living in the ghetto. Reality lyrics, this is truth and rights that you can’t hide from, seen? “Whitewash” might just be a call to arms for all lions to rebel against Babylon’s vampires, and their evil, racist ideals.

Mahogany Road is a solid presentation of roots and culture music firmly devoted to Rastafari, the most high JAH. I can tell you that when you put JAH first inna your heart it comes through inna your works. Abja’s Mahogany Road is something of a celebration of St. Croix the Island, the Cruzan musicians and people, and Selassie I the First..

Blessed Love,

M. Patton
Staff Writer Bigupradio.com