Global Reggae Charts - Issue #2 / June 2017

INNA
DE
YARD
Cedric Myton & Kiddus I
NEW ALBUM
The Soul Of Jamaica
Text: Thomas Euler | Photos: Baghir & Bernard Benant
What happens if you ask some legendary reggae
musicians and some talented youngsters to come
together in a Kingston yard and make some music?
“The Soul of Jamaica“. That’s the title of the newest
Inna De Yard album which is the result of gathering
an illustrious group of Jamaican artists in Kiddus I’s
(of Rockers fame!) yard. The list of involved artists
reads like an impressive lineup, particularly if you
have a taste in roots reggae from the early days.
“The Soul of Jamaica“ features contributions from
legendary singer Ken Boothe, the famous vocal trio
The Viceroys, or The Congos’ Cedric Myton. Lloyd
Parks - who’s primarily known as a bass player and
among others backed Dennis Brown, John Holt or
Justin Hinds - makes an appearance as a singer. As
does Winston “Bo-Pee” Bowen who played the guitar
for Gregory Isaacs and Horace Andy. Last but not
least there is Winston McAnuff.¹ The veteran roster
is complemented by some talented singers from
the young guard of roots artist: McAnuff’s son Kush,
Steve Newland, Derajah and Var.
They all came together for four days and recorded an
album which is full of acoustic goodness and a lot of
soul. What’s particularly special about the recording
is the fact that Kiddus I’s yard doesn’t resemble a
traditional studio. It’s truly a yard, located in the hills
surrounding Kingston. Thus, much of the recording
was actually done outside. Luckily, photo- and videographer
Bernard Benant accompanied the process.
The result is a brief documentary which you can
watch on YouTube. If you look at the pictures there,
the album’s organic, natural vibe won’t come as a
surprise. The release almost feels like the antidote
global reggae charts | issue 2 / june 2017
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