from the LP Heart of the Congos, Black Art Records, 1978
The late ‘70s were a dark and tumultuous time for those living in Jamaica, with the political struggle for power taking place at that time dividing the nation, resulting in riots and vicious hit-squads of violent goons from each political party trying to strongarm and bloody their enemies into submission. Add to that the death of Haile Selassie, who many Rastafarians considered to be the second coming of Jesus, and you had an environment ripe with apocalyptical overtones. Out of that somber mood come the Congos, wishing here that repatriation to Africa might alleviate the anguish and suffering found on the island. Though the mood is solemn, their harmonies warm me to the core of my soul and set my body a-swaying; not surprisingly, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry is responsible for the spectacular production on this track and their entire sole album.
