from the LP Harvest Time, Negus Roots Records, 1982Using marijuana cultivation & plant differentiation as an allegory to describe Jah’s selection process in the afterlife was an obvious one, but no less apropos, and singer Don Carlos never sounded better; although he is best known for founding Black Uhuru & then being involved with them again in the ‘90s, Carlos’ work with Uhuru is negligible compared to the vast discography of solo releases he recoded in the interim. Backed by the always dependable rhythm section of Sly & Robbie, this track is a good example of Carlos’ soft, smooth delivery, not afraid to come with a message but careful not to be pushy about it, as his bread & butter was of a much lighter variety (see: songs about girls). To anyone that’s spent time digging deep in the roots reggae well, it quickly becomes clear that there are unfathomable riches to be unearthed there, and this small record label is a treasure trove waiting to be re-discovered. Don’t sleep!
