Nice-Up

We Have Moved...

2006-06-07T09:07:00.000+12:00

The NiceUp Crew has moved! Please bookmark our new address at : http://www.niceup.org.nz/

Wha Gwaan

2006-06-02T10:28:00.000+12:00

This long weekend in Wellington :

Friday 2 - Jolly Rockers - Duke Willis & Ras Twig @ The Pit Bar (Bats Theatre), 10pm on - ska, rocksteady and golden oldies for your skanking pleasure

Friday 2 - Cornerstone Roots with The House Of Shem @ Indigo

Saturday 3 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

NiceUp Website Launch Party

2006-05-31T21:32:00.000+12:00

www.niceup.org.nz and The Package present the official launch party for NICEUP.ORG.NZ

For over a year, NiceUp - Wellington Reggae Online, has helped build on the capital's long time affiliation with some of the country's best reggae happenings, passionately supporting the scene in numerous ways with its strong local focus.

Providing coverage, promotion and involvement in local Reggae events with up-to-the-time news from the international reggae scene, NiceUp leads the way in online Reggae representation of this kind in NZ.

To celebrate the official move to the new web address: www.niceup.org.nz, come join us at Tupelo on Sat.10.June for The Official Website Launch Party. One of NZ Reggae's legendary vocalists, TUFFY CULTURE, returns to Wellington to help us celebrate, as well as some of the cities finest selectors who'll showcase the best in Reggae Dancehall music.

Big thanks to all the Wellington Reggae massive who keep us inspired to continue doing this ting, and even bigger thanks to everyone who's visited us online - keep on coming coz we'll keep the fire burning!

Desmond Dekker

2006-05-29T11:47:00.000+12:00

Article from the Jamaica Observer on the very sad news that reggae and ska legend, Desmond Dekker, passed away last week.

Israel Vibration - Reggae In Holyland

2006-05-27T14:38:00.000+12:00

Reggae In Holyland is the story of reggae band Israel Vibration and the time they spent on their first trip to Israel in 1993 – primarily focussing on the beachfront reggae festival they played at in Ahziv, backed by Roots Radics.

Israel Vibration have an inspirational history – the band members were born in Jamaica and met at a rehabilitation institute after being diagnosed with polio. They found strength through Rastafari, and their beliefs and stance on issues saw them eventually expelled from the institution. Music became the way the group would express themselves and after encouragement from those that heard them, they pursued their career.

This film is truly moving and has some great footage of the group in Jerusalem, on the River Jordan and in the Ethiopian Church, among other places. It also features parts of the live performance in Ahziv, and has bonus music videos of Hard Road, Livity In The Hood, Feelin Irie and the great tune, Rudeboy Shufflin.

The DVD is around an hour in duration, provides an insightful and poignant look at one of the great reggae bands of the world and is well worth checking out.

Wha Gwaan

2006-05-25T10:10:00.000+12:00

This weekend in Wellington :

Friday 26 - The Spice Traders - DJ Manray and The Spotlight Kid @ Good Luck

Friday 26 - Rhombus with The Silverbeats and Pacific Bass Culture @ Sandwiches

Saturday 27 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Chuck Fenda - Track Ban

2006-05-25T10:07:00.000+12:00

Article from the Jamaica Star Online about the recent controversy surrounding the banning of a Chuck Fenda tune from Jamaican airwaves - Gash Dem an Lite Dem.

NiceUp Tracks Of The Week

2006-05-23T19:52:00.000+12:00

Frankie Paul - Worries In The Dance

Frankie Paul was born Paul Blake in 1965 - the singer was blind until having an operation during his childhood which gave him a small amount of vision. He is known as Jamaica's Stevie Wonder and was visited by Wonder during his school days, who encouraged the young Paul to get into music. Produced by the late and great Henry 'Junjo' Laws and backed by the Roots Radics band, this tune came out on the Volcano label in 1983. In this track Frankie expresses his concern of the unrest in the dancehalls - it was a hit and helped to establish him among the other top ranking vocalists of the time. The track remains a classic in dancehalls today. Other hits he recorded with Junjo Laws' Volcano label include Pass The Tu Shung Pen and Curfew In The Dance.

Queen Omega - Judgement

Born in Trinidad, Queen Omega was winning calypso song competitions at the early age of 9 and continues to impress in her early 20's with 4 strong LPs already under her belt. This is the track that sparked the Judgement riddim (one of the 'Judgement' riddims – there’s a few!) which also features Capleton, Lukie D and Jah Mason, Ras Shiloh, and Admiral T (the French artist, not Admiral Tibet). It is out on the label Special Delivery, and produced by the very talented duo BOST & BIM (Matthieu BOST & Jeremie "BIM" DESSUS) - reggae/dancehall/hiphop producers based in France. It is also on Queen Omega's LP Destiny, released on Special Delivery in 2004.

Reggae World News

2006-05-19T09:19:00.000+12:00

Articles from around the world :

Bounty Killer Saddles To The East Once More - After a six-year hiatus, "Bounty Killer joins forces with non-profit organization Upliftment Jamaica to revive his signature stage show Saddle to the East in support of on-going educational initiatives in St. Thomas, Jamaica’s most impoverished parish".

Summerfest Productions (promoters of Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest) Official Launch - Details of the launch and some of the planned innovations of the festival, including Top Ranking - a show geared at highlighting some of the best years of dancehall music.

The Month in Reggae/Dancehall - Column from Pitchfork Media highlighting a visit to VP Records in New York.

Wha Gwaan

2006-05-18T13:23:00.000+12:00

This weekend :

Friday 19 - Art Official and Antoine from Radio Active's Roots and Culture Show @ Tupelo, spinning reggae, dancehall and hip-hop - lots of fresh tunes straight from Germany, France, JA, the UK and US.

Friday 19 & Saturday 20 - Fat Freddy's Drop @ Indigo

Saturday 20 - David Grace & Injustice with House of Shem & Native Sons @ Wellington Workingmen's Club (Cuba Mall - upstairs next to Bellamy's Book Shop), 9pm till late.

Saturday 20 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Top Ten Selections - Topknot

2006-05-17T22:13:00.000+12:00

Daddy Topknot has been a major player in the Welly reggae scene for many years. He has been part of some of the cities best crews, including The Homebass Crew, Vital Sounds, Sounds Almighty Aotearoa and Yardwise. He coordinates Radio Active 89FM's Roots and Culture Show and last year threw two of the cities biggest and best reggae parties on the now sunken frigate. He has been responsible for wicked events such as the soundsystem clash at the Cuba Street Carnival and has also been part of the infamous Whopper Chopper parties. Topknot plays a wide variety of sounds from strictly roots and culture, to ragga, dancehall, funk and Latin beats. You can catch him playing regularly around town at all the best parties and gigs. Nuff respect to Daddy Topknot for his Top Ten Track Selections for May.

Topknot's Top Ten Winter Warmers

1. Augustus Pablo - Harder Shade of Black
2. Garnett Silk - Evacuate
3. Roland Alphonso - Non-Stop
4. Tinga Stewart - Dry Up Your Tears
5. Dennis Brown - Bad Love Affair
6. Sugar Minott & Sizzla - Dem A Rush Me
7. Richie Spice - Devil
8. Jah Mitto - Sharper Then Barbwire
9. Jennifer Lara - I Am In Love
10. Clive Mathews - Live Not For Vanity

Articles

2006-05-15T11:44:00.000+12:00

Articles from the Jamaica Observer :

Bob Marley : 25 Years On - Focuses on the lasting and profound impact Bob Marley had on the world.

Sunsplash Performer Profile - Buju Banton

The Spice Traders

2006-05-14T18:30:00.000+12:00

Big Ups to The Spice Traders - DJ Manray and The Spotlight Kid, plus MC Ras Stone - for another night of wicked beats at Havana on Friday. The Spice Traders have been holding down the Welly reggae scene for some months now, playing the last Friday of every month at Good Luck Bar in Cuba Mall, and also putting on regular nights at Havana. They spin the best in old and new school dancehall and reggae from around the world and are a guaranteed good time. Check them out!

Wha Gwaan

2006-05-11T09:03:00.000+12:00

This weekend in Wellington...

Friday 12 - The Spice Traders - DJ Manray and The Spotlight Kid @ Havana

Friday 12 - Olmecha Supreme and Hollie Smith - Concert For Peace @ The Michael Fowler Centre - A celebration for the International Conference on Peace and Disarmament

Saturday 13 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

NiceUp Tracks Of The Week

2006-05-10T22:10:00.000+12:00

Pirates Anthem - Home T, Cocoa Tea and Shabba Ranks

Pirates Anthem was released in the late 80s and is in support of the British pirate radio scene. The entire pirate scene itself arose because of the complete government dominance of British radio at the time - and if it wasn’t for the pirates, the British government may have never opened up the radio to private licensees. These 3 artists also feature on the track Who She Love.

Broadway - Shaggy and Barrington Levy

This track is a remix of Barrington Levy's classic Here I Come, and is out on Shaggy's label Big Yard, which has also released big dancehall hits with riddims like Return/Stop That Train, Get It and Strip Tease. This song was released in 2005 and also features Barrington Levy. It features on the Clothes Drop album, Shaggy's latest long player.

Ninjaman

2006-05-07T13:41:00.000+12:00

Article from the Jamaica Observer - the first in a series covering artists who will be performing at the 2006 Reggae Sunsplash Festival - this one focussing on Ninjaman.

Wha Gwaan

2006-05-04T09:07:00.000+12:00

This weekend in Wellington :

Saturday 6 - Pacific Bass Culture @ Havana

Saturday 6 - The Green Room 005: Whanau - Loop CD Release Party - House of Shem, Shihan the Poet, Recloose and more @ The Hope Bros.

Saturday 6 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

NiceUp Tracks Of The Week

2006-05-02T19:46:00.000+12:00

Tek A Set - Burro Banton

Burro Banton began DJ'ing as a youth and in the late 70s joined his first soundsystem – Black Hoover. Burro continued his career with various other soundsystems, and in the mid-80s released his first album, produced by Henry “Junjo” Lawes. In the early 90s Burro joined forces with Bobby Konders and the Massive B label, and this marked the beginning of a long and productive partnership, with Burro producing top-quality, original dancehall. This track was released in 1997 and is on the Cuss Cuss riddim.

Hard Times - Pablo Gad

English singer, DJ and producer, Pablo Gad, came to prominence in the late 70's and early 80's for his conscious lyrics and heavy rhythms. His albums include Trafalgar Square (1979), Hard Times (1980) and The Best of Pablo Gad 1977-80. This tune is an example of classic UK roots and remains timeless in dancehalls today.

BBC - 1Xtra - Bobo Dreads

2006-05-02T11:25:00.000+12:00

Another informative documentary from Robbo Ranx of BBC 1Xtra, this time looking at the Bobo Dread community. Robbo pays a visit to the Bull Bay Camp (where the Bobo community is primarily located) in Jamaica, and looks at the Bobo belief system, their attitudes towards women, and the increasing number of artists communicating Bobo beliefs through their music.

Rebel Salute - 11th Anniversary

2006-04-30T16:04:00.000+12:00

Another DVD from the Rebel Salute series, this one being the 11th Anniversary special which took place in January 2004. The Rebel Salute festivals take place yearly in Jamaica, and are organised by Tony Rebel, with the purpose of supporting conscious reggae and dancehall within Jamaica and promoting this to the rest of the world. Featured artists include John Holt, Culture, Ken Boothe and The Mighty Diamonds. This year also stood out with a special performance by Junior Byles. This was the first time this artist had performed live for many years, due to problems with his mental health. The DVD is also interspersed with commentary from Tony Rebel, who provides interesting information on the history of the festival and further illustrates the positive messages the festival tries to forward. Well worth checking out.

BBC - 1Xtra - Dancehall After Dark

2006-04-28T16:21:00.000+12:00

In a special week-long tribute to dancehall, 1Xtra has a series of excellent documentaries focussing on the history and progression of dancehall worldwide. Standouts are two shows by 1Xtra host, Robbo Ranx. Both shows are two hours in duration, but with their first-class production, insightful interviews and classic tunes, are well-worth checking out :

Buju Banton Talks - In depth interview with Buju Banton at his Gargamel Studio in JA. Also features some of the musical highlights from his long and influential history.

Hail The King - A look at the last Emperor of Ethiopia's impact on five generations of music makers. Includes a first-class sound-track and interviews with Luciano, Damian Marley, Sizzla, Buju Banton, Brinsley Forde, Capleton and Burning Spear.

Yagga Yo

2006-04-27T18:17:00.000+12:00

Things to check out this weekend in Wellington:

Friday 28 - The Spice Traders - DJ Manray and The Spotlight Kid @ Good Luck

Friday 28 - Passion Smash - Duke Willis, Barney Ferrari and Tony Chaing @ Havana

Friday 28 - Olmecha Supreme Album Release Party with DJ Pico 5 & Kerb @ The Old Studio 9

Saturday 29 - Pacific Bass Culture @ Seam

Saturday 29 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Top Ten Selections - Conviction Roots

2006-04-26T11:37:00.000+12:00

Originally hailing from Wellington, Conviction Roots has spent the last few years residing in London, amassing a vast collection of sounds and checking out the legends of the roots, rock, reggae world, a few of his favourite artists being Junior Delgado, The Heptones and Dennis Brown. He is also heavily into the UK soundsystem scene, including Channel One, Jah Shaka and Aba Shanti. You may have been lucky enough to catch him in the capital in the last few weeks, playing on Radio Active and around town. We hope to have him back in the city soon. Respect to Conviction Roots for his top ten track selections for April.

1. Country Boy - Heptones
2. Collie Weed - Barrington Levy
3. Sons Of Slaves - Junior Delgado
4. Lets All Unite - Hugh Mundell
5. Jah Can Count On I - Freddie McGregor
6. Children Of The Emperor - Albert Malawi
7. Oh What A Day - Dennis Brown
8. Inner Sanctuary - Shandi-i and the Shandi-ites
9. Wine Of Violence - Jah Marcus
10. Put It On - Love and Unity

The Skatalites

2006-04-25T12:04:00.000+12:00

The Skatalites played a ram-jam session in Wellington on Saturday 22 with The Offbeats and The Managers in support. The crowd was treated to a night of top-quality ska and reggae - great to see such legendary bands playing in the capital.

Sounds Almighty

2006-04-23T23:57:00.000+12:00

Big ups to the Sounds Almighty Crew - Duke Willis, Topknot and Prince Alexander - for a wicked night at Havana on Friday. With a heavy soundsystem in effect (provided by Steppa D) and Art Official and Steppa D in support, the selections were first-class and the vibes irie until the wee hours.

Reggae Niceness - DJs Wanted

2006-04-20T17:04:00.000+12:00

Munt FM is looking for a new DJ(s) to be part of their Friday afternoon reggae and dancehall show - Reggae Niceness. The show takes place from 3-5pm every Friday and DJs will run the show on a roster basis. If you have a good reggae and dancehall collection and are interested in getting involved, please email the Station Manager, Matt, on : info@muntfm.co.nz

Wha Gwaan

2006-04-20T09:37:00.000+12:00

Big weekend in Wellington for reggae heads, with a nice mixture of local and international gigs around town:

Thursday 20 - Safari with Duke Willis @ Cabaret

Friday 21 - Sounds Almighty Aotearoa - Topknot, Duke Willis, Prince Alexander and Ras Twig @ Havana (Wigan Street)

Friday 21 - The Undercover Brother @ Tupelo (Edward Street Precinct)

Saturday 22 - The Skatalites with The Offbeats and The Managers @ Indigo

Saturday 22 - The Spice Traders @ Havana

Saturday 22 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Sunday 23 - Sugar Minott Special - Active 89FM's Roots and Culture Show, 4-7pm

NiceUp Sugar Minott Interview Exclusive

2006-04-18T19:26:00.000+12:00

Tune into Radio Active 89 FM's Roots and Culture show this Sunday 23 to hear DJ Art's exclusive interview with Lincoln "Sugar" Minott.

Lincoln Barrington Minott was born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1956. He started his musical career as a child, working with soundsystems, until setting up his own sound as a teen and becoming a selector. Minott's distinguished career as a vocalist began in 1969 as a part of the first-class roots trio - The African Brothers - alongside Tony Tuff and Derrick Howard. When the group split, Minott continued his solo career and spent extensive time at Studio One. In 1979 and 1980 he produced the ground-breaking albums - Ghetto-ology, Black Roots and Roots Lovers. Around this time Minott also launched his own labels – Black Roots and Youth Promotion. Youth Promotion was set up as a way for young and emerging talent to have a means by which to express and promote themselves, and has voiced, then upcoming artists, Yami Bolo, Tenor Saw, Garnett Silk and Junior Reid, among others. Sugar has continuously worked to help and support up-and-coming talent, while still uplifting the dance with his own signature style. A conscious and collaborative individual, Sugar has the belief of reggae being much more than a means of achieving self-fame, and that "...reggae music is a fraternity - what everybody does effects the next person".

In this radio special, hear Sugar talk about his musical beginnings, the highlights of his career, the realities of the reggae music industry and the missions that drive him personally and professionally - the education of artists, investment in the youth and working with the philosophy of "...togetherness, awareness and love - unity is strength", to establish better facilities and resources for up-coming artists. Produced and hosted by DJ Art at Newtown Sound, this show also features highlights from Sugar's extensive discography, including his work at Jammy’s, Studio One, and from his own labels.

Listen in to Radio Active 89FM's Roots and Culture show this Sunday 23 April, 4-7pm for the Sugar Minott special, featuring the NiceUp interview exclusive produced at Newtown Sound, and a showcase of Lincoln Sugar Minott's music with guest selectors Duke Willis and Jai.

Baby Cham

2006-04-18T12:16:00.000+12:00

Article from Reggae Vibes about Baby Cham - his musical beginnings, the dancehall smash-hit, Ghetto Story, and the way forward from here.

Bubble Up

2006-04-17T17:41:00.000+12:00

The NiceUp Bubble Up fundraising party took place on Thursday 13 at Havana and the Niceup crew would like to say a big thank you to everyone that came along and made it a great night. Big ups to the DJs - Lemon, Jai, Misteek, DollaMix and Art for their wicked selections, respect to Havana and Datastream for all their support, and of course to all the peeps that made it down on the night. We're looking forward to the next one!

Damian Marley - Auckland Review

2006-04-15T15:49:00.000+12:00

Damian Marley @ The Saint James, Auckland, Thurs. 6 April

When Bob Marley came to New Zealand in 1979 and played in Auckland, he did so amidst an atmosphere of great anticipation, positivity and celebration - the gig, and Marley himself being symbolic of the potential for human liberation and freedom, and the struggle of people worldwide to uplift and empower themselves and their communities. The Marley legacy was carried on by various members of Bobs' family, including his youngest son, Damian. Damian Marley released his first album in 1996, his second in 2001, and in 2005, the release of his third album, Welcome To Jamrock, saw the artist blow-up worldwide on a scale not seen by a reggae artist for some time. His biggest track, Welcome To Jamrock, is a politically hard-hitting, powerful statement about the grim reality of life for many in Jamaica and the hypocrisy and exploitation that takes place in regards to this country. It was with this backdrop – firstly, being part of one of reggaes biggest family legacies; secondly, with his own recent rise to prominence - that Damian Marley arrived last week in Aotearoa, to perform a one-off show in Auckland.

After unfortunately missing Katchafire who played a support set, we arrived to some nice tunes from the support DJ who warmed up the crowd well and kept the vibe flowing in-between the band change. With a near-capacity St James crowd buzzing with anticipation, Jnr Gong hit the stage with Confrontation and worked his way through the first part of the show with tracks from all three of his albums, including Justice, Beautiful, There For You, Love and Inity and Me Name Jnr Gong. He then went on to perform some of his fathers' classic tunes - Crazy Baldhead and Exodus which set the crowd ablaze. The Gong then brought it back to his original material, busting out In Too Deep, the classic, Khaki Suit, and Written, before ending with another true classic, Could You Be Love. The crowd was amped for more and Jnr Gong did not disappoint, coming back with a first-class encore. The Gong started out with a medley of classic Marley tunes that sent the crowd into a frenzy, then ending with For The Babies, Road To Zion and the smash-hit, Welcome To Jamrock.

Jnr Gong was backed by a 7 piece band - drums, bass, guitar, and keyboards - who throughout the whole performance were razor sharp. It was a true privilege to hear such an amazingly tight reggae band making beautiful music - obviously true professionals. The band were the lynchpins of the show, providing the most solid of foundations for the Gong to work with. Marley also had two brilliant women as his backing singers, who sang and danced vibrantly and added a powerful element to the show. Not to mention the spirited flag-bearer who also lit up the stage and kept the positive energy flowing.

Damian Marley himself was both charismatic and powerful on stage. He commanded the crowds' attention for the entire duration and his strong movements and presence combined with his excellent vocal skills were a pleasure to watch and listen to. The Gong also continuously chatted and sent out positive messages to the masses about upliftment, and living itally and consciously and reinforced these messages throughout the show. It was truly moving to hear the Gong perform some of his fathers' classic reggae anthems. He did so with a sense of pride, and this also provided a real sense of connectivity between the music and its historical and cultural background. Marley managed to mix the classics up with his own material, in such a way as to reflect his strong reggae heritage, while also highlighting his own musical influences and leanings. His performance, like that of his bands, was first-class, and had a maturity and strength not usually seen from one so young.

It is hard to sum up an event of such high calibre, and describe the vibe and feelings generated from a group of people gathered in recognition and celebration of reggae music, roots and culture and a Rootsman exemplifying this and spreading the message to the world. Big ups to the crowd on the night for their enthusiasm and positive energy – representing New Zealand well! Nuff respect to the band and the singers for their inspirational performance. And big respect to the one named Jnr Gong – representing himself, his family and roots and culture in only the best possible way.

Long Weekend

2006-04-12T21:59:00.000+12:00

Whats On:

Thursday 13 - The Hot Cross Bubble Up - NiceUp fundraising party - featuring selectors, Lemon, Jai, Misteek, DollaMix and Art Official - early start, 8pm @ Havana

Friday 14 - The Open Souls with Ladi6 and DJ Parks @ Indigo

Sunday 16 - Sundaze - Coopa Blue and Kenese, 4.30-7pm @ The Southern Cross

Bobby Brazuka Meets The Undercover Brother

2006-04-12T21:18:00.000+12:00

Check out The Undercover Brother with special guest from Auckland - Bobby Brazuka - at Tupelo (Edward Street Precinct) on Saturday 29 April. They'll be spinning Latin, funk, soul, hip-hop and reggae. You can also check The Undercover Brother on Friday 21 April at Tupelo, for a taster of what to expect the next weekend.

Morgan Heritage

2006-04-10T11:16:00.000+12:00

Three part article from the Jamaica Star about Morgan Heritage - their history, what it is like working with family and the musical mission they are on.

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

Create A Sound

2006-04-07T16:03:00.000+12:00

Tupelo is the place to be this Saturday 8th, with one of the cities finest selectors, Duke Willis from Sounds Almighty Aotearoa, in effect - spinning the best in reggae and dancehall until the wee hours.

Jah Shaka

2006-04-05T14:16:00.000+12:00

Interview with Jah Shaka in which he speaks about the history and purpose of his sound, where and who he has worked with throughout the years, and his views on soundsystem culture.

NiceUp Tracks Of The Week

2006-04-04T20:01:00.000+12:00

Catch A Fire – Damian Marley

Damian Marley was born in 1978 in Kingston, Jamaica, and is the youngest son of Bob Marley. He has been performing since his youth and has released three albums – Mr Marley (1996), Halfway Tree (2001) and Welcome To Jamrock (2005). He has achieved worldwide success and often tours with his brothers, who together make up the Ghetto Youths Crew. This track is off the Halfway Tree album and is an example of his unique fusing of traditional reggae with contemporary hip-hop beats. The New Zealand massive will have the chance to check him, this Thursday 6 April, at the St James in Auckland.

Cuss Cuss – Triston Palma

Triston Palma was born in 1962 in Waltham Park, Kingston, and by the age of ten was singing backing vocals for Sugar Minott and Tony Tuff, as well as singing with Earl "Chinna" Smith's Soul Syndicate band. In the 80s, Palma worked and recorded extensively with producer, Jah Thomas. He also worked with Linval Thompson, Henry "Junjo" Lawes and other top producers of the day. In 2000, Palma linked up with Easy Star Records to put together his latest album, Two Roads. This track is a cover of the Lloyd Robinson original, was produced by Bobby Konders, and released on the Massive B label in 1997.

The Hot X Bubble Up

2006-04-01T00:47:00.000+12:00

After a lot of peeps asking - 'when’s Nice Up gonna have a party?' - we’ve decided it’s gonna be Thursday 13 April at one of our favourite joints, Havana. Thanks to everyone for the support and contributions over the last year. All proceeds from this gig are going towards the upgrade of www.niceup.blogspot.com to...

www.niceup.org.nz

That’s right yo - niceup dot org dot nz. Hope to see you at the gig :)

Made In Jamaica

2006-03-30T13:56:00.000+12:00

Article from Big Up Radio about a new film in the making - Made In Jamaica - which is a "...portrait of the leaders of the reggae music movement, and how reggae has become a worldwide phenomenon". The film features Gregory Isaacs, Bunny Wailer, Third World, Beres Hammond, Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare, Tanya Stephens, Bounty Killer, Elephant Man, Lady Saw and Capleton, among others.

Check It

2006-03-29T20:44:00.000+12:00

This weekend in Wellington:

Friday 31 March - The Spice Traders - DJ Manray & The Spotlight Kid @ Good Luck

Saturday 1 April - Three Piece Suit - returns to the Matterhorn (Cuba Mall). DJs Duke Willis and Art Official bust shots and shake the foundations with king-size roots, dancehall, hiphop, funk and soul selections. For you and yours from 10pm till late

Saturday 1 April - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Sunday 2 April - Sundaze - Rainman & Nastyk @ The Southern Cross, 3-7pm

NiceUp Tracks Of The Week

2006-03-27T23:41:00.000+12:00

Take It Easy – Mad Lion

In 1991, US-based artist, Mad Lion, teamed up with hip-hop legend KRS-One, and a musical partnership was formed which has seen the two produce some of the most innovative and skilful hip-hop reggae in recent years. Mad Lion has recorded with some of the best dancehall reggae labels of today, such as Super Power, Jammy’s, VP Records and Massive B and has his own label, Killa Pride Productions. This track was released in 1994 and is off the Real Ting album.

No Funny Trick - Early B

Early B came to prominence for his skills as a vocalist in the late 70s and early 80s. Some of his albums include For Wheel No Real (1984), Clash Of The 80s Vol. 2 – Josie Wales meets Early B 1982-84 and Send In The Patient 1982-85. He was also part of the Jamaican soundsystem, Kilamanjaro. This track comes off the album, Triston Palma Meets Early B The Doctor. Very sadly, Early B was shot in 1994 in the US.

Luciano and Matisyahu

2006-03-27T09:54:00.000+12:00

Article from the Jamaica Observer about a collaboration between Luciano and Jewish Reggae DJ, Matisyahu.

Wha Gwaan

2006-03-23T21:38:00.000+12:00

Lots of cool music to check out this weekend around town for reggae and hiphop heads. Highlights include:

Friday 24 - One Night In Havana - The Undercover Brother & Pauly Who - reggae and hiphop @ Havana

Saturday 25 - World Series Dancehall 2 - DollaMix, JahDogs, GKO, DJ Dozen & guests @ Seam

Saturday 25 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Sunday 26 - Sundaze, 3-7pm - Colynjah & Don Luchito @ The Southern Cross

World Series Dancehall 2

2006-03-22T21:06:00.000+12:00

The next World Series Dancehall Party takes place this Saturday 25 March at Seam Bar, 48 Courtney Place. Players on the night include DollaMix, JahDogs, GKO and DJ Dozen, plus special guests. The party kicks off at 9pm, free entry, with drink specials all night. Check out bass flavours from all around the world, colliding inna dancehall stylee.

Reggae Headlines

2006-03-22T20:51:00.000+12:00

A review on the Jimmy Cliff gig, from stuff.co.nz, which took place in New Plymouth on Saturday night at the TSB Bowl.

Article from the Jamaica Observer on Michael Campbell – the Dread at the Controls – and how he is celebrating his 30th anniversary in the music industry this year.

Article from the Jamaica Observer about Ini Kamoze and the “…highly anticipated collection of twenty-four tracks of (his) early works that have been re-recorded with top musicians such as guitarist Earl Chinna Smith (The Wailers), and mixed to Ini's full satisfaction”.

Top Ten Selections - DollaMix

2006-03-21T23:38:00.000+12:00

DollaMix has been blazing up dance-floors around town in the past few months, playing weekly Wednesday night sessions at Seam Bar, starting up the ‘World Series Dancehall’ nights, and DJ'ing at various other parties in the area. He is known for bringing the freshest dancehall selections to the Welly massive, while mixing it up with the classics. You can catch him this weekend at the next ‘World Series’ party, at Seam Bar, Saturday 25 – a night to check out for sure. Nuff respect to DollaMix for his Top Ten Track Selections for March.

DollaMixes' Big Tunes

1. Sleng Teng Resurrection - Bounty Killer

Double time madness from the 'cross, angry, mizzerable' Maestro. (Note: Dibby DJ Alert: Original by Wayne Smith far too played out. Leave at home please).

2. Welcome To Jamrock - LP - Damian Marley

Fusion crossover perfection from Marley Jnr. Whole album pretty good with obvious stand outs. Dancehall for the whole family. See you at the concert...

3. Loving That You Want - Rhianna

Where'd this gyal come from anyway? Sexy, black, barbie-doll pop. You know you love it - don't front!

4. More Punnany - Doctor Evil

Freshest new style award goes to... Dr Evil. Proving comedy still rules the dancehall (Chorus: “Last nite me got some punnany. Rite now me want more punnany”!). Nuff said.

5. Ghetto Story - Baby Cham

Back from the brink of cross-over hell with an instant classic! Mad rewinds with this one. (Anything on Eighty-five riddim will do actually).

6. Take It Easy - Ritchie Spice

...And any other song this guy has made in the last year.

7. Oh Yes - Sizzla

Only Sizzla Kalonji could take a beat this minimal and turn it into a darned opera! (PC DJ alert: No batty slaying pon dis record (not that I can make out anyway).

8. Can't Satisfy Her - I Wayne

This is just one of those records. Drop this one any time, any where! Puullll Upppp!

9. As a Man - Assassin

"It's anudda one - Murrdah"! Good, hard, gimmick-less fuel injected deejaying over good, hard, gimmick-less riddim (Sleepy Dog) One for the headphones. One for the Heads!

10. Let's Dance - Elephant Man

No, not a Bowie cover (not yet?) - It's a Cindy Lauper cover! The gals’ dem just wanna have fun after all. Exquisite stoopidity. (warning: drunks only...).

11. BONUS OLDIE: Movie Star - Wayne Wonder

Just doesn't get any better than this.

2005 Reggae Music Video 3

2006-03-19T22:39:00.000+12:00

2005 Reggae Music Video 3, released by Music International Distributors, features a variety of artists and their big releases for 2005. Some of the highlights include :

*Ruffian Medley - Xray, Fantan Mojah, Bass, Frasser, Bescenta

*Striptease Medley - Shaggy, Cecile, Bling Dawn, Voicemail, General Degree, Ward 21, Wayne Marshall, Rik Rok, Kiprich, Brian & Tony Gold, Zumjay, Macka Diamond, Danny English, Blacker

*It's A Pity - Tanya Stephens

*Hail The King - Fantan Mojah

*Welcome To Jamrock - Jnr Gong

*Magic City - Buju Banton

*Can't Walk In Peace - Sugar Roy & Conrad Crystal

Reggae Runnings

2006-03-16T20:26:00.000+13:00

Lots happening over the next few weeks for Wellington reggae-heads. Get on out there and enjoy the international and local beats on offer.

This weekend in Wellington:

Fri 17 - The Spice Traders - DJ Manray and The Spotlight Kid @ Havana

Sat 18 - Fried Chicken Soundsystem - Kava, DDog, Solid Wax & special guest Skam @ Curve

Sat 18 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Sun 19 - Sundaze - CoopaBlue and Kenese @ The Southern Cross, 3-7pm

And also:

Sat 18 - Jimmy Cliff @ The TSB Bowl, New Plymouth

Fri 24 - One Night In Havana - The Undercover Brother and Pauly Who @ Havana

Sat 25 - World Series Dancehall - DollaMix, DJ Dozen, GKO and guests @ Seam

Fri 31 - The Spice Traders @ Good Luck

Thurs 06 April - Jnr Gong @ The St James, Auckland

Sat 22 April - The Skatalites @ Indigo

NiceUp Tracks Of The Week

2006-03-16T20:13:00.000+13:00

Blood and Fire were founded in 1993 and their philosophy is "to bring the standard of reggae reissues up to the level of the best in jazz, blues, R&B...and to ensure that both artists and producers are paid for their work".

Among their latest releases are six, 7 inch singles on the Congo's classic "Fisherman" rhythm, with vocalists including Big Youth, Horace Andy, Luciano, Lutan Fyah, Max Romeo, Michael Rose, U Roy and Prince Jazzbo. Definite tracks to check.

One Night In Havana

2006-03-13T21:55:00.000+13:00

Join The Undercover Brother and special Auckland guest, Pauly Who, at Havana on Friday 24 March for a night of reggae and hip-hop. A great party to check out after the De La Soul gig which takes place on the same night - phat beats a plenty.

Bounty Killer

2006-03-13T19:55:00.000+13:00

Part 2 and Part 3 of the interview with Bounty Killer, from the Jamaica Star.

Sunsplash Festival Returns

2006-03-12T23:23:00.000+13:00

Article from the Jamaica Gleaner about the return of the Sunsplash Festival to Jamaica..."Not only is it the first staging of the event since 1997 in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, but it has a new venue and new sponsors".

Easy Star Records

2006-03-12T12:05:00.000+13:00

Easy Star Records began in 1996 and are based in New York. The label came into being with the philosophy and goal to “…better reflect reggae’s diversity : modern roots productions, using live instrumentation and vintage recording techniques, to recapture and re-imagine the spirit of reggae’s golden age ; innovative dancehall riddims to keep current with reggae as it evolves ; and reissues of rare recordings that influenced both of these styles”. The Easy Star collective aims to inspire a new generation of reggae listeners, and another central goal is to foster “…a vibrant community of reggae fanatics to ensure the music’s health for years to come”. It does this primarily through its music and its website.

Easy Star releases music from some of the most-established reggae artists, and also some of the newest. The label has put out some top-class releases. These include Easy Star Vol. 1 (an original compilation of established stars like Sister Carol, Sugar Minott, Ranking Joe, and the Meditations with up-and-coming artists), Ghetto Knowledge (The Meditations), Two Roads (Triston Palma) and All I Have Is Love : A Tribute To Studio One. On a dancehall tip, the label released Easy Star Vol. 2 : Dancehall Culture (featuring, among others, Luciano, Anthony B and Frankie Paul).

On the reissue front, some standouts include Ghetto-ology + Dub, Rare Gems and Hidden Treasures (Sugar Minott), and Can’t Stop Us Now (Linval Thompson’s productions).

Check their website for more details on Easy Star Records – an innovative New York based crew, helping to continue the forward movement of reggae music worldwide.

What's On...

2006-03-10T11:09:00.000+13:00

Saturday 11 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Sunday 12 - Sundaze - Rainman & Don Luchito @ The Southern Cross

NiceUp Tracks Of The Week

2006-03-08T22:41:00.000+13:00

One Step Forward – Max Romeo

Max Romeo was born in 1947 in St D'Acre, Jamaica, and at 18 years of age won a local talent contest and left for Kingston, where he launched his career as a reggae vocalist. After his initial rude boy beginnings with tracks such as 'Wet Dream', Romeo turned to Rastafarianism to express the injustices of the political and social inequalities he saw and experienced around him. This track comes from the seminal album, 'War Ina Babylon', released in 1976 and produced by Lee Perry, which many class as his Romeo’s best and most powerful work.

Hard Time Pressure – Sugar Minott

The impact that Sugar Minott has had on the reggae industry worldwide cannot be underestimated. Born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1956, he began his career as a child working with soundsystems, and then launched his own sound as a teen. In 1969 he joined forces with Tony Tuff and Derrick Howard to form the African Brothers – a first-class roots trio. After the group split to pursue solo careers, Minott continued to record continuously, while also setting up his own labels, one of them being 'Youth Promotion' – a foundation dedicated to allowing the youth to express themselves and be heard. The label has promoted artists such as Yami Bolo, Junior Reid and Tenor Saw. This track was released in 1980 on the album 'Black Roots'. Stay tuned for details of the Sugar Minott Interview Exclusive, produced and hosted by Art Official, coming soon to Radio Active’s Roots and Culture show.

Newtown Festival

2006-03-06T22:15:00.000+13:00

The sun was shining on the Southern suburbs on Sunday for the annual Newtown Festival Fair day. Known as a multi-cultural, diverse event, this year was no exception, with a variety of stalls, crafts, food and performers.

The DJ stage on Green Street was a stand-out part of the day - nuff respect to Art Official, Nastyk, Topknot, Misteek, Don Luchito, DJ Dozen, Kerb and DJ Lemon for high-grade beats ranging from reggae, hip-hop and dancehall to African and Asian.

Bounty Killer

2006-03-06T13:36:00.000+13:00

Interview from the Jamaica Star with dancehall legend, Bounty Killer, focussing on "...the many talents that he has introduced into music, those who have made it big, others who he has had to leave to time".

Jnr Gong

2006-03-04T22:13:00.000+13:00

Article from the NZ Herald about Jnr Gong and his up-coming Auckland gig on Thursday 6 April at the St James.

Newtown Festival 2006

2006-03-02T18:33:00.000+13:00

The DJ stage returns to the Newtown Festival fair day this year, located this time in Green Street, behind the National Bank building. Performers on this stage include Art Official, Don Luchito, DJ Nastyk, DJ Kerb, DJ Dozen, Danny Lemon, and Yardwise. You can expect to hear music ranging from Reggae, Hiphop, Jazz, Electronica, Soul, Dancehall, and also Asian and African beats to reflect Newtown's diverse and multi-cultural community.

The programme will run something like this:

10am Art Official (Jazz/Instrumental)
11am DJ Dozen (African Beats)
12pm DJ Nastyk (Asian Underground)
1pm Danny Lemon (Reggae)
2pm DJ Kerb (Soul/R&B)
3pm DJ Don Luchito (Hiphop)
4pm Yardwise (Dancehall)

For information about the 2006 Newtown Festival see http://www.newtownfestival.org.nz/

Double Barrel

2006-03-02T00:07:00.000+13:00

Get on down to Havana Bar on Friday 3 March and check out the Duke and Daddy Topknot, spinning ska, funk, reggae and afro beat for your listening pleasure. Guaranteed to start your weekend off in an irie way.

Sundaze

2006-02-28T23:59:00.000+13:00

Sundaze summer sessions are underway at The Southern Cross - you can check out some of Welly's best selectors spinning tunes from 3-7pm every Sunday. This Sunday 5 March check out world beats, soul, funk, dancehall and reggae with DJ's CoopaBlue and Nastyk.

Photos by CoopaBlue

Katchafire & Kora - Orientation Gig

2006-02-28T16:12:00.000+13:00

Katchafire and Kora play the Union Hall tonight, as part of Victoria Universities’ yearly orientation. Doors open at 8pm, so get down there early to check out two of New Zealand’s big reggae groups, fresh from their performances at Soundsplash earlier this month.

Dubwize Soundsystem

2006-02-27T23:27:00.000+13:00

Dubwize Soundsystem are one of New Zealand’s best reggae/dancehall crews. Based in the South Island, they are currently working on a new album, to follow up from the solid 2003 release – Reality Chant. Check new site, http://www.shizzer.com/ for gig guides, news on crew-members - Papa Levi, Raggadon, Iyah Far-I, Messenjah, DJ Shoozz, and Tuff Enchant - and other information.

Jimmy Cliff

2006-02-27T23:18:00.000+13:00

Article from Australian paper, The Advertiser, about reggae legend, Jimmy Cliff. Catch him in New Zealand at New Plymouth's TSB Bowl on Saturday 18 March, as part of the Womad Summer Series, with support from Cornerstone Roots, Chico Cesar, and Lucid.

Wha Gwaan

2006-02-24T14:23:00.000+13:00

This weekend in Wellington...

Fri - The Spicetraders - DJ Manray and The Spotlight Kid @ Good Luck

Sat - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Sun - Sundaze - Rainman and Kenese @ The Southern Cross

Baby Cham

2006-02-24T12:37:00.000+13:00

Short interview from the Montreal Mirror with dancehall artist, Baby Cham, and his comments on his musical beginnings and politics in Jamaica.

Top Ten Selections - The Mighty Asterix

2006-02-22T20:01:00.000+13:00

The Mighty Asterix is a legend of the New Zealand reggae scene. His MC’ing and vocal skills have seen him gain a first-class reputation both in New Zealand and internationally. Asterix began MC’ing in the early 80s in Palmerston North and was inspired by the likes of Dillinger, I-Roy, U-Roy, Dennis Brown and Frankie Paul. At the end of ‘82 he moved to Auckland and worked closely with Stinky Jim and DLT, before joining The Twelve Tribes in ‘86. Asterix eventually moved to Wellington in 2000 and now works with all of the best crews and bands in town, and has recently performed at Kaikoura Roots and Soundsplash. Masses of respect to The Mighty Asterix for his top ten track selections for February (in no particular order).

1. Living In Love – I Wayne
2. Do Unto Others – Lymie
3. Born Again – Mikey Spice
4. Glory Of God – K-5 Selassie
5. Kingdom Rise, Kingdom Fall – The Wailing Souls
6. Wake Up Mankind – Dennis Brown
7. Love And Unity – Michael Prophet
8. We Pray – The Mighty Diamonds
9. Door Peep – Burning Spear
10. Something Funny – The Wailing Souls

Wednesday Session

2006-02-21T15:15:00.000+13:00

Stop by Seam this Wednesday night and check out a new weekly session around town - DollaMix and Gecko spinning a selection of dancehall, hiphop and reggae beats. Also watch out for their next up-coming World Series Dancehall Party - bringing the blazing, fresh tunes to the Wellington massive.

Pacific Bass Culture & Sounds Almighty

2006-02-20T18:46:00.000+13:00

Pacific Bass Culture

Duncan Taylor

Daddy Topknot

The Duke & The Mighty Asterix

Photos by Miz Ninja

A selection of shots from the Pacific Bass Culture Album Release Party which took place at Sandwiches on Friday night. The crowd was treated to a series of sets by Pacific Bass Culture, who proved they are most certainly a band to look out for in the future. Sounds Almighty Aotearoa were out in full force, playing only the choicest selection of reggae cuts and packing out the dancefloor. Respect to the crews for a big night.

Shabba Ranks

2006-02-19T22:05:00.000+13:00

Article from the Jamaica Gleaner about veteran dancehall DJ, Shabba Ranks, and his recent releases and focus.

Weekend Dancefloor Action

2006-02-17T09:09:00.000+13:00

Lots on this weekend in Wellington...get on out there and support the scene and enjoy the phat beats on offer.

Friday 17 - Pacific Bass Culture (6 piece electro-acoustic dub band and recent winners of Radio Active Dub Idol) Album Release with Sounds Almighty and The Mighty Asterix @ Sandwiches

Friday 17 - Tahuna Breaks (4 piece, Auckland-based dub/reggae/soul band) @ Bodega

Saturday 18 - World Series Dancehall - West Indies Cricket One-Dayer After Party - 'Big hittin Jamaican dance floor action' - Iya Far-I & DJ Dozen vs DollaMix & JahDogs Kartel @ Seam Bar, 8pm on

Saturday 18 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Sunday 19 - Sundaze @ The Southern Cross, 3-7pm

Whakarongo Mai Reggae Heads

2006-02-16T18:21:00.000+13:00

This Monday 20 February, 11pm on National Radio’s (AM 567, FM 101.3/104.5, http://www.radionz.co.nz/) Music Mix Show, Newtown’s Art Official reports on Soundsplash 06 - the eco reggae festival held over Waitangi weekend in Raglan.

Featuring interviews with headline artist and legendary Jamaican DJ/Toaster, Big Youth, plus Dunedin’s Renegade Sound, Wellingtons own Yardwise family, and kiwi woman Gaylene Martin, who has worked in the UK reggae business for 30 years. Also includes music from Scientist, Burning Spear, Kora, Seeed, Third World, Blackseeds and Big Youth.

Tune in for the Soundsplash report, 11pm Monday on National Radio.

Sundaze

2006-02-15T21:06:00.000+13:00

Back by popular demand, the newly refurbished Southern Cross Bar on Abel Smith Street presents the Sundaze summer sessions. Every Sunday from 3-7pm, see some of Welly's best selectors - CoopaBlue, Colynjah, Don Luchito, Rainman, Kenese and Nastyk - spinning beats ranging from hiphop, funk, soul, world-music, dancehall and reggae. The nicest way to spend summer evenings.

NiceUp Tracks Of The Week

2006-02-13T23:24:00.000+13:00

Nah Bow Down – Sluggy Ranks

Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Sluggy Ranks moved to America in the late 80s and began his musical career. He has worked extensively with Easy Star Records and believes strongly in using music to spread roots, reality and culture inna the dancehall. This track features on the album Hi-Fidelity Dub Sessions – Roots Combinations, released in 2001, out on Guidance Records.

African Roots - Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood – the younger brother of Trinity – was born in Jamaica and began recording in the late 70s. He became renowned with singles such as Death In The Arena and Step It Inna Zion. In the early 80s he began working with General Saint and the two had further success with albums such as Stop That Train and Two Bad DJ. This track is the DJ version of the Johnny Clarke classic.

Reggae Runnings

2006-02-10T10:42:00.000+13:00

Friday - The Spicetraders - DJ Manray and the Spotlight Kid @ Havana

Saturday - Downtown Brown and the Sunshine Soundsystem feat. MCs PDigss & KPZ @ Sandwiches

Saturday - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

And up and coming...

Friday 17 - Pacific Bass Culture and Sounds Almighty @ Sandwiches

Soundsplash

2006-02-08T18:34:00.000+13:00

The 2006 eco reggae festival, Soundsplash, took place at Wainui Reserve, Raglan, from 4-5 February. This festival is organised by the Motherland Collective, and has a zero-waste goal and a strong focus on environmental preservation. This year’s theme was recycling which was very much apparent by the decorations and sculptures at the venue. The Motherland Collective are dedicated to "...promotion, performance and forward movement of roots based music in Aotearoa".

This was the third Soundsplash festival to take place, and during this time it has gone from strength to strength, in both its organisation and musical line up. This year the reggae massive had the privilege to see Big Youth, Third World, and DJ Earl Gateshead (Trojan Soundsystem) along with a multitude of the best reggae, roots, dancehall and dub musicians and DJs in New Zealand.

The festival had a good turn-out of around 5000 people - a nice amount of people for the venue to accommodate. With its natural amphitheatre-like setting, ample parking and camping space and close proximity to the ocean, Wainui Reserve is the perfect setting for such an event. Along with two stages - the main-stage and the heavyweight zone - there were numerous food and local art and craft stalls, plus much needed chill out zones set amongst the grounds.

The international acts of course drew much attention. Legendary Jamaican DJ, Big Youth, was accompanied by Earl Gateshead and the two made a killer combination - Gateshead dropping the heaviest of conscious selections, backed by the classic voice and beautiful vibes of Big Youth. Third World were the last act of the festival and also did not disappoint. They performed classic tunes and showcased some superb musicianship, leaving no one wondering why they are known as one of the worlds top reggae bands. Big Youth made another appearance on the mic before the end of their set and also displayed more of his memorable foot work.

Wellington crew Yardwise laid down an hour set towards the end of the first night to a large crowd in the heavyweight area. Accompanied by the Mighty Asterix and Kthrnak on the mic, Yardwise dropped the big, heavy tunes and represented the Welly sound in top styles. Renegade Sound also played a fine set, the Dunedin/South Island based sound laying down nice dancehall-orientated selections along with some original material. All of the musicians put on first class performances, some of the other acts included House of Shem, The Midnights, Salmonella Dub, Anika Moa, DLT, Brazil Beat Soundsystem, The Open Souls, Cornerstone Roots, Kora and Katchafire.

Big ups and respect to the Motherland Collective for putting on a first-class festival with positive messages and irie vibes. We look forward to the next one in 2008.

One Love

2006-02-08T18:07:00.000+13:00

Wellington confirmed its status as the reggae capital of New Zealand on Monday with the yearly celebration of Bob Marley's birthday and cultural unity - One Love. This year saw a record crowd of over 17,000 in attendance with Sounds Almighty, The Blackseeds and Dub Idol winners, Pacific Bass Culture, bringing the irie vibes to the masses. A nice after party at Seam Bar was also held, with a wicked set from DollaMix, and a follow-up set from Pacific Bass Culture.

Junior Gong New Zealand Gig

2006-02-07T18:57:00.000+13:00

Big news for the New Zealand reggae massive - Damian Junior Gong Marley plays Auckland's St James Theatre on Thursday 6 April. Tickets available online at Ticket Direct.

Bob Marley Birthday Commemorations

2006-02-07T18:37:00.000+13:00

A selection of articles documenting the celebration of Bob Marley's birthday, which took place on 6 February.

Bob Marley history on Wikipedia

BBC Article on this year's events and links to more information and sites

Washington Post article about events in Ethiopia

Heads Up

2006-02-02T09:02:00.000+13:00

There has been some confusion recently about the recent Channel One Sound System (UK) visit to the Big Day Out, in particular, Ch1's founding member, MikeyDread. NiceUp would just like to clarify for those that don't know, there is indeed more than one MikeyDread...

Info about Mikey Dread and the Channel One SoundSystem (UK) is online @ http://www.rootsandculture.co.uk/channel1.htm

Michael Campbell - 'The Dread at the Controls' - Mikey Dread is also online with info and music etc @ http://www.mikeydread.com/homex1.html

Long Weekend In Welly

2006-02-01T21:18:00.000+13:00

Reggae runnings for Waitangi weekend in Wellington:

Saturday 4 - Duke Willis and Takkas @ Havana

Saturday 4 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Sunday 5 - One Love @ The Velodrome (Hataitai)

Sunday 5 - Sunday Sessions - dub, reggae & dancehall - King Konscious, GKO and DollaMix @ Seam, 4pm on

Monday 6 - Pacific Bass Culture @ Seam, 8pm on

One Love 2006

2006-02-01T21:07:00.000+13:00

The Velodrome in Hataitai is the only place to be in Wellington on Monday 6 February for One Love 2006. It’s an afternoon celebration of cultural unity, love and summer, featuring Cornerstone Roots, Sounds Almighty Aotearoa and the Blackseeds. Also featuring Radio Active “Dub Idol” winners, Pacific Bass Culture. Reggae in the sun – make sure y’all check it out.

Reggae Niceness Radio

2006-01-31T22:00:00.000+13:00

Tune into the “Reggae Niceness” Radio Show on Munt 88.5 FM (Massey University Station), every Friday from 2-5pm. This is a new show hosted by Far-I, GecKo and DollaMix and is dedicated to spreading good vibes, as well as keeping Welly up with the freshest sounds hot out of Jamaica. Guaranteed to nice-up the area on your Friday afternoons!

Soundsplash 2006

2006-01-29T11:22:00.000+13:00

Waitangi weekend (Feb 04-05) sees the yearly Soundsplash Festival take place in Raglan, put on by the Motherland Collective. With a line-up featuring international guests, Big Youth, Third World and DJ Earl Gateshead (Trojan Soundsystem UK) and local artists including Yardwise, Katchafire, Cornerstone Roots, DLT, The Mighty Asterix, Stinky Jim and many more, this is sure to be a weekend of high-grade reggae in the most picturesque of surroundings.

Weekend Phat Beats

2006-01-26T21:48:00.000+13:00

Friday 27 - One Vibe (from Nelson) @ Bodega (and Bluenote on Sat 28)

Friday 27 - Spicetraders @ Good Luck

Saturday 28 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Richie Spice Interview Exclusive

2006-01-25T19:39:00.000+13:00

Tune into Radio Active 89 FM’s Roots and Culture show this Sunday to hear DJ Art Official’s exclusive interview with Fifth Element artist, Richie Spice.

Richie Spice has emerged as one of the most talented reggae artists of the 21st century. Born in 1971 in St. Andrew, Kingston, Spice comes from a strong musical family, including brothers Pliers (Chaka Demus and Pliers) and Spanner Banner (also on the Fifth Element label). In 2000 Spice released his debut album, Universal, on Heartbeat Records. He spent the next few years touring and recording singles, until meeting Devon Wheatley, the CEO of Fifth Element Records, who signed him onto the label. In 2004 “Spice In Your Life” was released, with the album, and Spice himself receiving widespread acclaim throughout the world, among critics and dancehalls alike. Spice’s powerful and conscious lyrics and themes reflect his and Fifth Element’s beliefs, and “…aim directly at the upliftment of our youths, who will represent the generations to come”.

In this interview exclusive, listen to Spice talk about his musical beginnings, how he was introduced to reggae music and influenced by people such as Bobby Digital and the Tuff Gong family. Hear him speak about his collaborations and influences and his soon to be released new album. Produced and hosted by DJ Art Official, this show will also feature some of the highlights of Spice’s discography.

Listen in to the Richie Spice interview exclusive, this Sunday 29 January, on Radio Active 89FM’s Roots and Culture show, 4-7pm.

“…growing up I always look out there in the world at the changes going on – gun violence, the youths out there on the street hungry, cannot find food, cannot go to school, the whole world war that’s going on. Physically, spiritually, the whole meditation come upon the universe so we just put all of those things together and put the words together to speak of things that are going on around us” – Richie Spice.

Channel One Soundsystem

2006-01-23T21:41:00.000+13:00

The yearly “Big Day Out” took place in Auckland at Ericsson Stadium on January 20th and this year New Zealand reggae-heads were blessed to have the opportunity to hear and see Channel One Soundsystem from the UK.

For this session, Channel One founder, Mikey Dread, was joined on the mic by Terry Gad, who is formerly from Gloucester based soundsystem, Jah Trinity. Residents in Oz will be familiar with Jah Trinity, as Gad’s brother runs a sound by the same name based in Adelaide.

Channel One Soundsystem began around 25 years ago. After Dread inherited a soundsystem from his father and brother, he set about adding to it and building his own in his mother’s basement in London. Mikey was raised in London, but returns to Jamaica every few years to maintain connections and visit family. Channel One are an integral part of the legendary, old-school UK roots soundsystem circuit and play with other sounds such as Jah Shaka, Aba Shanti, the Iration Steppas and Jah Youth. They have played, and occupy prime position for the last 22 years at the 2nd biggest street festival in the world – the Notting Hill Carnival, held every August in London. They regularly tour around the UK and Europe, an all-time favourite gig being around 1994 or 1995 in Marseille, France, with Burning Spear, the Mighty Diamonds and Dennis Brown. A foundation goal of Channel One is to influence and inspire the youth in positive ways. Their shows are characterised by floor to ceiling speaker stacks, the heaviest of bass power and sessions with other sounds lasting for up to eight hours of classic UK roots.

Channel One played at the Lily World stage in Auckland, which was nicely sheltered from the main BDO stages and the sprawling rock crowds, which luckily meant the sounds did not interfere with each other. Channel One took to a nicely set stage bearing Jamaican flags and greenery and the crowd had a large grassy area to skank on – a perfect outdoor dancehall setting. Their set lasted for just over two hours during which time the crowd was treated to an energetic and spirited performance with Dread dropping tunes and both performers on the mic, filled with conscious messages and calling for peace and unity. Two hours was not nearly enough time to capture the true Channel One vibe, as it was obvious there was so much more to come, but it provided the large and enthusiastic audience a taster of an authentic UK roots session.

When asked for three favourite Channel One tracks, Mikey stated that Bounty Hunter by Barrington Levy, No Peace by Tena Stelin (to be released in March), and Natty Dreadlocks by Colour Red are heavily on rotation.

As this was their first visit to this part of the world, and due to their gruelling flight schedule, Mikey stated that they approached their visit to Aotearoa with a bit of apprehension. However they found the country warm and inviting and enjoyed giving the people a sample of their sound and message. When asked what he thought of the New Zealand reggae soundsystem scene, Dread was positive and analogously compared it to the New Zealand landscape when he said “It’s kind of like a volcano that’s ready to fire…you can feel the vibes…it’s like there is an underlying thing ready to happen, if it sparks it’ll blow up, and you want to be a part of that”. They expressed their strong desire to return to Aotearoa next year, with Wellington being a favoured destination spot, to experience the New Zealand sound and to help our own sounds to grow and develop. He also expressed a strong interest in learning more about Maori and Rasta culture in New Zealand.

It was a true privilege to have the opportunity to experience the Channel One sound in Aotearoa and we give thanks and praises to Mikey and Terry for making the journey. Lets hope the New Zealand reggae massive can work together to get them back to Aotearoa next year.

More Fire

2006-01-19T21:56:00.000+13:00

Big Ups to current resident-in-Melbourne, Art Official, for his report on More Fire - Melbourne's biggest monthly reggae party.

Chant Down: MORE FIRE! session #54. Jan 14, Melbourne

Last Saturday night inna Melbourne town, Australia, saw Chant Down Productions present: MORE FIRE! Session #54 of Melbourne's monthly reggae/dancehall blaze up, a session which has been burning hotter and hotter since April 2001.

Soundmen Jesse I and Ras Crucial (Chant Down Soundsystem) hosted and headlined the night with guest selectors Housewife's Choice, Christar, Bonnita, Delay, and A13, later on vocalists Damajah and Riff Raff joined the selectors on stage. Tearing up dance floors in 2 rooms of the Mearcat, Queen St, the main room underground was packed with enough sound power for a heavy, heavy reggae bashment session. The second room was upstairs and had a balcony overlooking the Victoria Market, which certainly pleased the irie intentions of some.

By the time I arrived, A13 was dropping some big tunes downstairs, from Gregory Isaacs 'Rumours', to Ninjaman's 'Mad Again'. Chant Down Soundsystem then took to the stage to blaze things up with nuff dubplates and conscious roots dancehall. Upstairs, Housewife's Choice were pushing tough riddims like 'World a Music' and 'I Swear'. MCs Damajah and Riff Raff joined Jesse I on the mic to close the impressive Chant Down set. With the crowd wanting more, Bonnita took to the tables and threw down some big ragga hip-hop and dancehall which was followed by some heavy, heavy dub selections by Jesse I.

Overall a wicked night with everyone enjoying the nice vibe and great tunes. Big up to Chant Down! They are online at http://www.chantdown.com/, which has info and audio from some More Fire sessions. But even better... if you are in or near Melbourne, on the second Saturday of the month, More Fire is a sure shot.

Official

Kaikoura Roots Report

2006-01-18T21:05:00.000+13:00

Masses of respect to DJ Spin Zero from the Yardwise Crew for his report on the Kaikoura Roots Festival which took place last weekend.

Our expectations of the "Kaikoura Roots Festival" have been far surpassed. "Misteek and the Yardwise Soundsystem" eventually made it to the venue despite some serious vehicle trouble. Huge respect for Toby and Esther for coming through on that one. From a 5-star backpacker in an emergency rental car, to encountering four different guys called Paul, we made it to the grounds.

Saturday threw an incessant easterly at the venue, but the quality and volume of the session in progress more than made up for that. The crowd was out in all their irie glory, and not even the threatening rain deterred them from what was to become a perfect treat for bass lovers.

Through various bands, sound systems, producers, selectors and singers, the evening heated up with the sound of Ladi6 and selector's husky tracks, Kora's magnificent sunset and full harvest moonrise set, toward the brilliance of Salmonella Dub, Fat Freddy's and into the heavyweights of Kapisi, Digital and the night-time selections.

Dubwise Soundsystem got the crowd suitably rocking on Sunday morning, Papa Levi, Tuff Enchant and Messenjah busting out their magic from irie rootsy licks to serious dancehall growls. Polished and invigorating, the crowd was given an ultra downbeat rest of a few minutes by the likes of Son.sine, only to be compelled back to the dance floor by the sound of Wellington's frontrunners in reggae-dancehall, Yardwise.

Somewhat apprehensive of how our sound would be received at such a prestigious festival, we were humbled by the support and appreciation we received by way of the packed out dance floor and boundless energy of the crowd. Being called back by the inimitable "Kunte Kinte" trombone line, the crowd were quick to respond.

MC Kthrnak managed to communicate all our respect for the reggae massive through his toasts, versions and stingers while Jhan delivered heart-melting versions of "Bam Bam", "Truth and Rights" and "Tenement Yard" among other songs.

Slamming through our set from classic to contemporary, our set peaked with the bass-killer track "Dust Another Sound"; the only person we could see not going wild was the poor soundman, making sure we didn't rupture the bass bins with that one.

Over almost before we knew it, our 40 minute set delivered a sampling of what Yardwise represents, and hopefully expressed our Wellington and worldwide flavour. Massive thanks and praise to the South Island massive and all the travellers who made it.

But the star of the show was the one and only Mighty Asterix, with three billed sets and many unlisted, with many respected artists such as DLT, Cornerstone, Sunshine Soundsystem and others. That Upper Hutt sound which is so familiar in Wellington and Aotearoa, permeating the roots festival in his own unassuming way, was the perfect celebration of Roots in NZ.

Sadly the last one at that site, the Kaikoura Roots Festival was a definite 10/10 session. Respect to Andrew and the organising team who came through with not only a seamless musical event but quality stalls and facilities as well. Hoping that such a high grade event can be continued in the future. Bless.

Top Ten Selections - Spikey Tee

2006-01-18T21:00:00.000+13:00

Now a resident of Australia, Spikey Tee originally hails from London where he developed his first-class DJing, MCing and vocalist skills. He first came onto the New Zealand scene with some big gigs at Phoenix, Indigo and Sandwiches and has most recently toured as a guest vocalist with Sola Rosa. He is well-known for his heavy selections of drum and bass, jungle, dancehall, reggae and tight skills on the mic. Watch out for his up-coming tour with jungle/drum and bass crew Congo Natty Outernational. Nuff respect to Spikey Tee for his favourite tracks (in no particular order) for January.

1. Warm Weather - Pieces Of A Dream
2. Jahoviah - Twinkle Brothers
3. Let Jah Be Praised - Peter Tosh
4. Embrya Album - Maxwell
5. Locust - Ed Rush and Optical
6. Moulding - Ijahman Levi
7. Feel Like Jumping - Marcia Griffiths
8. Padlock - Gwen Guthrie
9. Let's Get It On - Marvin Gaye
10. War Of The Gods - Billy Paul

Rebel Salute Review

2006-01-17T23:08:00.000+13:00

Article from the Jamaica Observer reviewing this year's Rebel Salute festival, which was held at Port Kaiser's Sports Club, St. Elizabeth on Saturday 14th January. This festival is a yearly event organised by Tony Rebel as a celebration of Jamaican roots music, and artists on the night included Luciano, Richie Spice, Burning Spear, Inner Circle and Third World.

JAVAA's New Home

2006-01-14T13:33:00.000+13:00

Article from the Jamaica Gleaner about how "The Jamaica Association of Vintage Artistes and Affiliates (JAVAA) (has) officially opened its new home" and will stage its first concert - Remembering the Crown Prince of Reggae, A Birthday Celebration, in honour of Dennis Brown.

Big Youth Album Review

2006-01-13T17:36:00.000+13:00

Shout-outs to Miz Ninja for her review on Big Youth's classic album, Screaming Target.

Big Youth (Manley Augustus Buchanan to his mother) made it big back in 1972, with his debut album, Screaming Target. Although just 17, Big Youth had by this time built up a solid following in Kingston, as the resident DJ for one of the biggest sound systems, Lord Tippertone’s.

Screaming Target progresses through a solid line-up of classic rhythms which roll gently under Big Youth’s laidback toasting flow, punctuated by the occasional exclamatory yelp or nerve-shattering scream. Among the tunes given the Big Youth treatment on this album are ones originally recorded by Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs and Augustus Pablo, and the title track samples KC White’s ‘No No No’. The rootsy, steady pace of Screaming Target allows Big Youth’s chatty, chanting vocals and rasta-inspired lyrics to dominate.

This album established Big Youth as a hugely popular, innovative and influential reggae sound, who added to the growing Rasta consciousness of the dancehalls in the early 1970s. Rasta morals seep through his lyrics in songs such as ‘Honesty’ (‘you’ve got to help the old while you are young’) and ‘the Killer’ (‘you should never do a ting dat is wrong’).

The album is undoubtedly a classic, and is well-worth a listen for any reggae aficionado, or those interested in the man who many credit with providing an early but important influence on the development of American hip hop vocal styles.

Waitangi weekend this year gives reggae fans of Aotearoa the chance to catch a flash of Big Youth’s red, green and gold jewelled teeth at Raglan’s Soundsplash festival.

Miz Ninja

Check It

2006-01-12T09:01:00.000+13:00

This weekend:

Thurs 12 - Budspell @ Room 101
Thurs 12 - Digital @ Sandwiches
Friday 13 - Duke Willis @ The Matterhorn
Saturday 14 - DJ Lemon @ The Last Supper Club

Nice-Up Tracks Of The Week

2006-01-10T20:39:00.000+13:00

Youths Well Cold - Assassin, featuring Freddie McGregor

Born and raised in Papine, north-east Kingston, Assassin began DJ’ing around the age of 4, and gained his stage-name from musical clashes with friends at school. His talent was later recognised by fellow artist, Spragga Benz. This track is from his recently released album - Infiltration - and is produced by Donovan Germain for Penthouse Productions. Also look out for another big Assassin track, “God Nuh Sleep”.

Classic Track - Hot This Year - Dirtsman

Dirtsman was born in Spanish Town, Jamaica in 1966. Sadly, his life ended violently when he was shot dead in 1993, after having recently signed a recording contract with BMG. This track was released in 1991 and still remains a dancehall classic.

Sunday Sessions

2006-01-07T13:06:00.000+13:00

Come on down to Seam Bar, 48 Courtney Place, Sunday 8th, for the Sunday Reggae Sessions with GKO and guests, 4-7pm. Chilled vibes and phat beats guaranteed.

Reggae Xplosion Museum

2006-01-04T22:40:00.000+13:00

Article about how the "...history of Jamaica's music, covering reggae, ska, rocksteady, dub and dancehall, is preserved in the Reggae Xplosion Museum at Island Village, Ocho Rios, St. Ann".

Foundation For Musical Pioneers

2006-01-03T21:26:00.000+13:00

Article from the Jamaica Observer reporting on Delano Franklyn's (The Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade) call for the establishment of "...a foundation within the music industry to assist musicians who have passed their productive years in terms of performance and recording".

New Years 2005-2006

2005-12-27T12:17:00.000+13:00

Things to do this new years eve:

Rhythm and Vines - 31 Dec to 1 Jan - Salmonella Dub, Cornerstone Roots, Kora, Fat Freddy's Drop and more @ Waiohika Estate, Gisborne

Phat 06 - 31 Dec to 2 Jan - Total Science, GND, The Blackseeds and more @ Canaan Downs, Takaka Hill, Nelson

And festivals in 2006:

Kaikoura Roots Festival - Jan 14 to 15 - Stinky Jim, Mighty Asterix, DLT, Cornerstone Roots, Dubwize and many more

Soundsplash - Feb 04 to 05 - Big Youth, Third World, Katchafire, Kora, The Open Souls, Yardwise Soundsystem, Renegade Sound and many more @ Wainui Reserve, Raglan

Jimmy Cliff - March 18 - Bowl of Brooklands, New Plymouth

African Dance Party

2005-12-22T22:30:00.000+13:00

Celebrate the start of the holidays at Cordoba Bar, 283 Cuba Street, this Friday 23rd. The beats will range from African music to reggae, dub and dancehall. Performers on the night include Iya Far-I on the decks and Ras Stone on the mic.