Reggae Night at the Bowl

Reggae Night is special because of the people who come to Reggae Night. The bands were great, don’t get me wrong, but the mood of the night was set by the positive vibes emanating from the sold out audience. Barrington Levy got things off to a great start but Beres Hammond really kicked it into high gear. He reminded me of Curtis Mayfield in a lot of ways – integrating some social commentary and a smile that would come out of nowhere and brighten his face, just like Curtis. He had a lot of spirit and it translated really well.

When I told my friend Nichole we were going to see UB40, she was a bit surprised. The UK reggae band gained worldwide fame in the ‘80s but a lot of people did not realize they are still touring and making music. The set was solid, but the last four songs were just fantastic. It took me right back to 6th grade, sitting in a room I shared with my sister, with the little boombox I LIVED for. I used to tape songs I loved off the radio and I know I have a mix cd somewhere with ¾ of “Red Red Wine” on it.  “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” “Here I Am,”  and “The Way You Do the Things You Do” were pure gold. Everyone was singing and dancing (and clinking plastic glasses of red, red wine).

Just one more show left! Come see Ozomatli, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Nortec Collective and Lila Downs on Sunday, September 21.

RR