Reviving roots?

The rockers era, distinguished by the innovation of new musical patterns and vocal styles, evolved in the 1970s and is hailed by some as the Golden Age of reggae music. Rockers was recorded at a turbulent time in Jamaica's history, fraught with chronic unemployment, rising world oil prices and the dissipation of skilled labour and investment capital. The sounds that emerged during the rockers era were reassuring, inspiring and healing ... real rebel music.

Four young women, dubbed The Tribal Council - 1980s babies, raised on the music of the '70s - have made a commitment to reviving the fire for roots rock reggae among their generation.

The next phase of the group's mission launches on Saturday with 'Vibes is Right: The Rockers Edition', a dance party on the shores of Wickie Wackie Beach in Bull Bay, St Andrew.

Socio-economic conditions

When asked about their inspiration to produce a rockers edition of Vibes is Right, Lesley-Ann Welsh commented, "Reggae music, rockers in particular, is at once spiritual and revolutionary. Rockers comes out of an era that was characterised by socio-economic conditions that are very similar to those we're experiencing today. We want to spread the music and its message among our peers, and inspire nostalgia among the elders of our parents' generation."

Janine 'Jah9' Cunningham, also a member of the Tribal Council, cites the need for more events that "bridge an inter-generational gap, complement the resurgence of live music and, most importantly, promote dancing and positive vibrations. We want people to dress the part and come out ready to dance, meet a stranger and have a good time."

The other members of the Tribal Council are Natalie Reid and Kareece Lawrence.

Tickets cost $700 presold and $1000 at the gate. Presold tickets are available at Ashanti Oasis, both locations of Veggie Meals on Wheels or by calling 354-8812 /868 9422.