Jessica Chandler checks out the Passing Clouds’ Roots Reggae Special and finds old and new mixing perfectly.
The good people at the Passing Clouds collective managed to kick some warm, sunny vibes into the cold night air of Dalston on Friday night, with a class reggae line-up that sent the heat out to those night warriors braving the cool temperatures.
Limbering up to lead the charge Skillosophi's soft and soulful roots reggae eased us in with their original tunes and compositions. Steeped in wistful and positive songs, these guys are serious about their work giving their soft roots rhythm a mature touch. Their songs come with a love of percussion that makes for an earnest, sweet sound. A first time treat for Passing Clouds.
Headliners King David & The Reggae Vibes Band, ramped up the energy well into the night by bringing out some good old fashioned Bob Marley classics. King David's rich and strong voice lent itself very well to this mission and when he dedicated these songs to the people of Haiti, it was a powerful call to the dancefloor. No strangers to big crowds, these guys have opened for the likes of Toots and the Maytals and The Mighty Diamonds. They also know how to lead the crowd into a nice sweaty evening of pure wholesome reggae classics.
Keeping everyone on the floor was an impressive line-up of selectors, DJ Duke Etienne from the Heads High collective, and the one and only MC Clapper Priest and Passing Clouds own Mr Foundation. Hosted by Planet who like his namesake moves in wide, circles, this was a great mix-up of upcoming and well loved reggae bands we hope to see more of.
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