Protoje enters rhythm juggling with 'Resist Not Evil'

Protoje and his band, the Indiggnation, spent half of this year travelling the United States and Europe, promoting his sophomore album The 8 Year Affair.

Last week, the artiste signalled his homecoming to the Jamaican music scene with the release of Resist Not Evil on Overstand Entertainment's 'Militancy' rhythm.

If interpreted in the literal sense, the title may mislead the unassuming listener away from the poignant lesson in the lyrics. Resist Not Evil puts a spin on turning the other cheek. The message is 'do not exact revenge.'

"I was inspired to write this song after reading verse 39 in chapter 5 of the book of Matthew. It was so simple, yet profound and relevant," said Protoje.

All the singles on the 'Militancy' rhythm provoke similar introspection into peaceful, but powerful, resistance, and the balance of power in society.

Jah Cure, Kabaka Pyramid, Jesse Royal, Iba Mahr, Chezideck, Dre Island and King Mas are the other artistes who contributed vocals to the compilation.

SOCIAL COMMENTARY

Phillip 'Winta' James of Overstand Entertainment, chief creative mind behind the 'Militancy' rhythm, describes the project as an effort to create a body of music focused on social commentary.

"I felt it was important to hear from the younger generation of artistes about causes and issues that provoke them to action," James commented.

"I also wanted to bring the veteran artistes and the reggae-revival generation together on this one. This kind of inter-generational collaboration is not too common right now," the producer explained.

James is also responsible for the 'Rootsman' rhythm.

A relative newcomer to the world of rhythm juggling, Protoje elaborated on his decision to record a song on the 'Militancy' rhythm.

"I was really impressed with 'Rootsman' [rhythm] but I didn't record a song for it. When I heard the 'Militancy' rhythm, I couldn't pass a second time," said Protoje.

Resist Not Evil is the first collaborative effort between Protoje and James, and the rhythm is already available on iTunes and from other major online digital distributors.

Fans can listen to singles free of cost on SoundCloud. The video will premiere online on Friday.