CD REVIEW
The Mystic Roots Band
MVD Audio
Sonically, The Mystic Roots Band is all over the reggae map. With their latest release, Cali-Hi, the Chico-reared band continues its habit of throwing dollops of hip-hop, rock, dancehall and vintage roots into the sonic melting pot. The end result? A bass-heavy, layered collage of tracks that skitter from world-weary lyrics (check out the Obama and MLK samples on “Work 2 Dub) to more polished, skank-worthy compositions (“Blessings”). The guest appearances are impressive with “Lifestyle” showcasing the talents of legend Barrington Levy and “Space in My Life” featuring the emotive crooning of Katherine Ramirez. Pato Banton also drops in for “Blessings,” not surprising since Mystic Roots started out as Banton’s backing band. For a polished example of reggae’s many possible permutations and stylistic diversity, Cali-Hi is an excellent starting point. (Michael Carlos)
