Reggae truly travels far and though the Isle of Wight may not be as sun-kissed as Jamaica, The Ohmz have found a way to replicate the genre’s groove and chilled sound. Their first EP, Smile, had a gritty and ska-infused funk beats, as if they were The Specials’ support act in 1980. Their second EP, Gotta Move On, sees them indeed moving on to feel-good pop melodies.
Sweet Reggae Beat does what it says in non-offensive diet reggae while No Peace tries its best to describes a corrupt world. Though it is not as profoundly well put as say Bob Marley, the “One Love” message will always be universal and it’s easy to be swept away by this group.
The title track still has the ska elements of their first EP and by the end breaks into a full blown One Step Beyond frenzy.
They certainly play up to the stereotype of reggae music on the last track Ganja island. At best it shows their sense of humour, as one verse talks through how to roll a joint, at worst it shows a lack of imagination. Still you can help but join in the party.
There is no new take on this genre but what’s not to love about Caribbean rhythms from the English Channel.
COPYRIGHT © New Reviews 2012
Anastasia Aboim
