These days it's rare to find a new reggae act who embodies the genre's traditional roots. But such is the case with Rootz Underground, a six-man band formed 10 years ago out of "di yard" -- Jamaica. They not only sound right, but act right, singing conscious lyrics of justice and peace and matching them with heavy, heavy bass lines and pop-driven hooks. The combination will make any rookie reggae listener an irie fanatic.
Rootz Underground's 2008 debut album, MOVEMENT, garnered much praise on the international reggae scene, establishing them as a definitive new cross-genre and cross-generational Jamaican group. And now, fresh from a sold-out West Coast tour, Rootz graces South Florida with a high-octane rebel-rocker performance at Pulp Live on September 16.
It's a sweet treat, as their last show down here was more than a year ago. Don't expect too many mellow hippie singalongs, though. as Rootz can often be more Bad Brains than Bob Marley. So bring the weed and the Red Bull and let the riddim hit ya.
Get show details and a full free download of the group's latest album, Alive, after the jump.
MP3: Rootz Underground - Alive
Wednesday, September 16. Pulp Live, 2674 East Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. Show starts at 9 p.m., admission is $15. 954-537-1514; pulpliveonline.com
-- Esther Park
