The Congos (Jamaica)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDBvuGAZe3I
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_17x4ZbzAQ
http://www.myspace.com/congoscongos

The Congos formed as a vocal duo consisting of “Ashanti” Roy Johnson (tenor) and Cedric Myton (falsetto) later becoming a trio with the addition of Watty Burnett (baritone). Thy are principally known for the legendarily slept on ‘Heart of the Congos‘ album recorded with studio wizard Lee Scratch Perry at the Black Ark in 1977. Now considered one of the classic roots recordings, the album was turned down by Island Records and underwent a series of setbacks, which prevented it from reaching the audience it deserved. Reissued by the prolific Blood and Fire label some years ago, ‘Heart of the Congos’ is considered by many as strong an album as such seminal reggae recordings as Bob Marley and the Wailers’ ‘Natty Dread’, Burning Spear’s ‘Marcus Garvey’, and the Mighty Diamonds’ ‘Right Time’. In 2006 Blood and Fire also released ‘Fisherman Style‘ – an album built on versions of their classic track ‘Fisherman’ including contributions from Max Romeo, Big Youth, Dillinger and Luciano.

The group are captivating audiences with the signature lilting harmonies of Cedric Myton and their deep roots sound.

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Mad Professor (UK)

http://www.myspace.com/madprofessordub
http://www.ariwa.com/

Mad Professor’s name was first given to him by friends at school, who were amazed by the electronic experiments he carried out as a youth. Having built a radio and telephone system by the age of 10, it was no surprise then that his interest in electronics along with a love of Motown, Philadelphia International, Treasure Isle and music of all types led Neil into the world of Music. Famed for his collaborative album with Massive Attack, the Mad Professor has had a long and varied career in production. Whether he is working with stars such as Sade, Massive Attack and The Orb, producing for punk bands like The Ruts or pushing his own ‘Dub Me Crazy’ collections, the Mad Professor brings a fresh angle to whatever music he is making.

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Mista Savona (Melbourne)

http://www.mistasavona.com

A formidable force on Australia’s roots and reggae scene, the Mista Savona Band is a collective that combines a deep knowledge of roots reggae (think Studio One or The Black Ark) with a love of contemporary dancehall and hip-hop styles. Superb musicianship and highly energetic shows are the trademark of the group, handpicked by Savona as the studio band for the recording of his pioneering third album Melbourne Meets Kingston. Festival bookings and tours quickly followed, and the band are now being used regularly by international artists (such as Luciano and Horace Andy) on their Australian touring circuits.