Chuck Fenda, John John pull for authentic roots

Curtis Campbell, Gleaner Writer

Reggae artiste Chuck Fenda says his newly released Jah Elements is meant to become a classic.

Fenda launched the John John-produced album at King Jammy's studio located in the Waterhouse community recently.

"The vibe that we hold on this album is spiritually deep. That is why John John and I decided to call it Jah Elements," Chuck Fenda said.

The album sees the two musicians revisiting history to sample some authentic roots reggae rhythms.

Jah Elements also features some newly created roots reggae tracks on which Chuck Fenda belts out some contemporary-style deliveries.

The reggae artiste said he not only revisited his roots when he chose to do an album featuring authentic roots reggae rhythms, but also when he decided to work with John John, a man who greatly influenced his decision to pursue music in the early '90s.

"Before I started in the business, John John was one of the first producers to record me professionally. I had migrated to the US and he told me to come to Jamaica, and that's how the whole movement started. John John learnt from his father, and his father used authentic rhythms, so he has a different mindset. Whatever he suggests, I follow," he said.

COLLECTORS' ITEM

The artiste said the album was a collectors' item, containing timeless music. He also believes the album is relevant to the present experiences of world citizens and provides a clear indication to young reggae artistes that they are capable of carrying on the legacy of icons like Bob Marley and Peter Tosh.

Speaking of icons, also featured on the album are dancehall and reggae veterans like Bounty Killer, Leroy Smart, Johnny Clarke and Junior Reid, alongside Angel Doolas.

Chuck Fenda grew up listening to some of the artistes featured on the album and it gives him a sense of accomplishment to have collaborated with them on his new project.

Bounty Killer and Leroy Smart are featured on a social commentary effort called Badness No Pay, while Junior Reid is featured on Spiritual Warfare.

The drumming for some of the tracks on the album was performed by the iconic Sly Dunbar and Squidy Cole. There are also appearances from many other established musicians who all contributed to the creation of an authentic reggae product.

Jah Elements carries 17 tracks and will be distributed worldwide by Zojack Distribution Company.

Chuck Fenda, who recently returned to the island from a US tour, says he is now focused on getting the album into the Jamaican market.

The ambitious Warning singer says no one reggae album has stood out in the local market since Sizzla's Dry Cry and he hopes to have the message from this project blaring from every household and every corner shop.

"In this time, we need to uplift reggae and carry it on. The people need this message that I am saying, they need this inspiration. A long time an album nuh buss a Jamaica. Mi wah know seh all di man weh deh pon di sidewalk a play Fenda CD," the artiste told The Gleaner.

Jah Elements is available online at most online music stores. However, tangible copies of the project can also be purchased at stores islandwide, including Derrick Harriot's Music Mart.