Icho candy is one of those artists to look out for, from the Jah Shaka dubplates of the 80’s to now, his presence has always been felt on the roots circuit. The unique and distinctive vocal style of this artist sets him apart from many others, this is why its exciting to hear that Black Redemption record label has a new single coming out soon by him! I was fortunate enough for Ras Kush the New York based producer and label boss to give me a preview of the tune and when I heard it I wasn’t surprised at how killer it sounded.
The tune, called ‘Red White and Blue’, a nod to the colours of the star spangled banner, talks about America’s dominance over the world and how it influences people. Icho talks about inequality and injustice and talks about ‘the colour for Satan is red white and blue’. Not the first choice in music for the bible belt. In fact I’m slightly concerned that the wrong person may read the review, not really I live in Norfolk – I’m prepared.
The riddim track is exactly the ruff Shaka style track that Icho Candy is suited to. I can only imagine what this is going to sound like over a sound. And believe me, next opportunity that I get it is going to be dropped pulled back and dropped again! The dub version, mixed by Mighty Massa from Japan is hard to say the least with massive reverbs and echoes with the haunting vocals dropping in and out, layers of heaviness!
I’m not too sure of the release date for this but it is soon and I’ll let you in on a secret, this is the B side! The other side of the 12” is a tune called ‘Military’ by another veteran Tony Tuff, a much, much harder steppers piece. Watch this space, other Black Redemption productions will be coming out and also being reviewed in the magazine.
Until next time, keep the vibes alive!
Review By Jack Duffield.
