by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson
Sometimes, living in one place year-round can make a person forget how varied the physical and cultural landscape of this country is. Just yesterday, we were in a ski village, a place that would soon be covered in white powder and those who play in it. Today we're here in the desert. No one is expecting snow or even cold weather any time soon…at least not during the day. Deserts are known for being cold at night. Tonight is no exception, and everyone goes for their long sleeves (to protect them from the desert chill).
When we get to the venue, El Taoseno, there'll be time to warm up and before you know it, everybody will be rocking to the beat of the hottest Reggae artist in the world.
August 30, 2001
August 27, 2001
Boulder CO - Fox Theatre
by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson
Usually, second nights are the ones where bands can seem tired or listless. That was certainly not the case tonight.
Judge Roughneck warmed the crowd up with their unique blend of ska, R&B, and funk. The audience ate it up. I personally, made a point of catching their whole show. I totally loved it!
The crowd seemed to double in the time it took to change over from one band setup to another. The placed looked a stadium shrunken to scale, so it would fit into the room. Right away, we could see tonight would be different from the previous. First, the crowd let themselves be seen as soon as the doors opened. None of that football business tonight…
The set list was no more than a piece of paper this evening. Mr. Rodney just knew what the crowd wanted and led the band into tunes that delivered. No set list could do that! The audience witnessed a true master of music at work this night. He moved the crowd to his will and they loved it. Every tune he called helped drive the emotional pitch toward its eventual crescendo. I can't even begin to remember the order of the tunes we played; all I can remember is that the band and audience felt like dance partners. Each would take a turn leading, taking each other to new places within. By the time I came down from this high, we were on the bus en route to Vail.
Usually, second nights are the ones where bands can seem tired or listless. That was certainly not the case tonight.
Judge Roughneck warmed the crowd up with their unique blend of ska, R&B, and funk. The audience ate it up. I personally, made a point of catching their whole show. I totally loved it!
The crowd seemed to double in the time it took to change over from one band setup to another. The placed looked a stadium shrunken to scale, so it would fit into the room. Right away, we could see tonight would be different from the previous. First, the crowd let themselves be seen as soon as the doors opened. None of that football business tonight…
The set list was no more than a piece of paper this evening. Mr. Rodney just knew what the crowd wanted and led the band into tunes that delivered. No set list could do that! The audience witnessed a true master of music at work this night. He moved the crowd to his will and they loved it. Every tune he called helped drive the emotional pitch toward its eventual crescendo. I can't even begin to remember the order of the tunes we played; all I can remember is that the band and audience felt like dance partners. Each would take a turn leading, taking each other to new places within. By the time I came down from this high, we were on the bus en route to Vail.
August 26, 2001
Boulder CO - Fox Theatre
by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson
This is the first of a rare two-night stand.
This part of Boulder is strictly a college town, and the composition of the audience reflects it. As a matter of fact, a University of Colorado football game almost delayed the start of the show. A good number of the ticket holders were at the football game.
Somehow, the generally raucous atmosphere of college sports gave way completely, to a vibe that was just short of church.
The show, itself was 'Burning' as usual and the crowd didn't hesitate to show their appreciation. Beautiful vibes, all around…
By the time we hit the stage, only a small barrier separated the band from the audience. A couple of young women managed to get past the barrier and security. I guess they were tapping into their 'fifteen minutes of fame'. The band kept up the groove and didn't miss a beat as the crowd gave as well as they got, and believe it, they got the best. Only tomorrow will compare.
This is the first of a rare two-night stand.
This part of Boulder is strictly a college town, and the composition of the audience reflects it. As a matter of fact, a University of Colorado football game almost delayed the start of the show. A good number of the ticket holders were at the football game.
Somehow, the generally raucous atmosphere of college sports gave way completely, to a vibe that was just short of church.
The show, itself was 'Burning' as usual and the crowd didn't hesitate to show their appreciation. Beautiful vibes, all around…
By the time we hit the stage, only a small barrier separated the band from the audience. A couple of young women managed to get past the barrier and security. I guess they were tapping into their 'fifteen minutes of fame'. The band kept up the groove and didn't miss a beat as the crowd gave as well as they got, and believe it, they got the best. Only tomorrow will compare.
August 25, 2001
Denver CO - Red Rocks
by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson
Of all the places that take their names from their character, this is it! Red Rocks is just what it sounds like… you seem to be in a bowl, whose walls are these majestic red rocks. I've never seen anything like it. Some of the mountains seem consciously conceived, while others are seemingly arbitrary in their design. Some are polished looking and still others retain a rough-hewn character. Just looking at them makes you want to find yourself at the top of one overlooking this wonderful country. Jah Creation…
This is the perfect setting for a night of serious reggae music.
Yellowman's show was where I arrived at the venue. You had to marvel at his energy and steadiness in the midst of it all. Just one rocking tune after another… the undisputed king of reggae DJ's, in my mind. Dancehall artists, take some notes! Yellow is the man!
By the time our time had arrived, everyone was in a state of total anticipation…the Burning One would soon be here.
We start with Jah No Dead and from his first word, Mr. Rodney had the many hundreds in the palm of his hand! I think they were pretty pleased with way they were handled. By the time we launched into 'Man in the Hills', it was plain that magic would be made tonight.
Here we all were, celebrating to the rhythm of Jah Word…amidst all the splendor of Jah Creation…audience, man woman an child… the band bringing musical fire, in support of the Burning Spear.
What a day!! Reggae on the Rocks…with a twist of magic, the music of King Yellowman and of course, the highlight of the evening…Burning Spear. Who could want more?
Jah Guide…Keep the Spear Burning.
Of all the places that take their names from their character, this is it! Red Rocks is just what it sounds like… you seem to be in a bowl, whose walls are these majestic red rocks. I've never seen anything like it. Some of the mountains seem consciously conceived, while others are seemingly arbitrary in their design. Some are polished looking and still others retain a rough-hewn character. Just looking at them makes you want to find yourself at the top of one overlooking this wonderful country. Jah Creation…
This is the perfect setting for a night of serious reggae music.
Yellowman's show was where I arrived at the venue. You had to marvel at his energy and steadiness in the midst of it all. Just one rocking tune after another… the undisputed king of reggae DJ's, in my mind. Dancehall artists, take some notes! Yellow is the man!
By the time our time had arrived, everyone was in a state of total anticipation…the Burning One would soon be here.
We start with Jah No Dead and from his first word, Mr. Rodney had the many hundreds in the palm of his hand! I think they were pretty pleased with way they were handled. By the time we launched into 'Man in the Hills', it was plain that magic would be made tonight.
Here we all were, celebrating to the rhythm of Jah Word…amidst all the splendor of Jah Creation…audience, man woman an child… the band bringing musical fire, in support of the Burning Spear.
What a day!! Reggae on the Rocks…with a twist of magic, the music of King Yellowman and of course, the highlight of the evening…Burning Spear. Who could want more?
Jah Guide…Keep the Spear Burning.
August 24, 2001
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson
On the way to Winnipeg, hanging out at the airport… Stewie, Bassie, Cecil and Tedo are rocking to a classic Burning Spear tune (Civilize Reggae). This tune was totally ahead of its time. You could look at their faces, body lingo and know something's really rocking hard. It has all the ingredients needed to keep you movin'. Horn lines that are intricate, yet accessible, bass line driving, simply, but with 'nuff soul. And of course, The Burning Spear just lighting up the vocals. Everybody wants to make a copy of it. These times make waiting two hours for a flight melt away. Before you know it, you're boarding the plane.
Of course, I couldn't walk past them and not get a listen for myself… musical airline food. The best kind.
Things are held up a while, as everyone waits to see if the warnings about the rain will come true. We're on the bank of the Muddy River, which is where the festival takes its name. It doesn't look so muddy this night, but it's still standing water and that means mosquitoes. A few of us use the insect repellent that's available. For those who didn't use it, there will be a night of playing and swatting. James and Mikey each have towels draped over their shoulders for cover. If this were a rehearsal, it would be the perfect concentration drill, but this is the real thing and a few of us had bites to show for our dedication.
In spite of this natural obstacle, professionalism and personal pride win out and the audience gets a good show for their trouble. It's a good thing there weren't mics on everyone's skin
Onward, to Red Rocks…
On the way to Winnipeg, hanging out at the airport… Stewie, Bassie, Cecil and Tedo are rocking to a classic Burning Spear tune (Civilize Reggae). This tune was totally ahead of its time. You could look at their faces, body lingo and know something's really rocking hard. It has all the ingredients needed to keep you movin'. Horn lines that are intricate, yet accessible, bass line driving, simply, but with 'nuff soul. And of course, The Burning Spear just lighting up the vocals. Everybody wants to make a copy of it. These times make waiting two hours for a flight melt away. Before you know it, you're boarding the plane.
Of course, I couldn't walk past them and not get a listen for myself… musical airline food. The best kind.
Things are held up a while, as everyone waits to see if the warnings about the rain will come true. We're on the bank of the Muddy River, which is where the festival takes its name. It doesn't look so muddy this night, but it's still standing water and that means mosquitoes. A few of us use the insect repellent that's available. For those who didn't use it, there will be a night of playing and swatting. James and Mikey each have towels draped over their shoulders for cover. If this were a rehearsal, it would be the perfect concentration drill, but this is the real thing and a few of us had bites to show for our dedication.
In spite of this natural obstacle, professionalism and personal pride win out and the audience gets a good show for their trouble. It's a good thing there weren't mics on everyone's skin
Onward, to Red Rocks…
August 22, 2001
Bar Harbor, ME - Criterion Theatre
by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson
The people we encounter seem mostly to be visitors from all over the country, who come here for some sailing or fishing, or just enjoying the water. Today, there's burning reggae on their menu, but first we have to get ourselves settled. Most of us were glad to find out that there were laundry facilities available. It's amazing how things that are usually considered undesirable chores become luxuries when traveling. We also took the opportunity to do some personal shopping…for groceries, food, toiletries, etc.
After some rest and home cooked food, we made our way to sound check. The venue is close to the hotel, so we can walk if we wish.
The energy in sound check is really high and you can see everyone's individual desire to learn more about his or her instruments and about the immense body of work produced by the boss.
At show time, you can almost feel the energy, as everyone is anxious to get to work and bring the people what they've been waiting for all summer long. When we launch into Jah no Dead, you can feel the audience pulsate…ready to give as well as get and the evening is full of energy exchange. It's unbelievable. We gave all we had and the people gave all they could in return. A night of pure magic.
The people we encounter seem mostly to be visitors from all over the country, who come here for some sailing or fishing, or just enjoying the water. Today, there's burning reggae on their menu, but first we have to get ourselves settled. Most of us were glad to find out that there were laundry facilities available. It's amazing how things that are usually considered undesirable chores become luxuries when traveling. We also took the opportunity to do some personal shopping…for groceries, food, toiletries, etc.
After some rest and home cooked food, we made our way to sound check. The venue is close to the hotel, so we can walk if we wish.
The energy in sound check is really high and you can see everyone's individual desire to learn more about his or her instruments and about the immense body of work produced by the boss.
At show time, you can almost feel the energy, as everyone is anxious to get to work and bring the people what they've been waiting for all summer long. When we launch into Jah no Dead, you can feel the audience pulsate…ready to give as well as get and the evening is full of energy exchange. It's unbelievable. We gave all we had and the people gave all they could in return. A night of pure magic.
August 21, 2001
Hyannis, MA - Melody Tent
by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson
Greetings, Burning Spear fans, wherever you may be. This is Micah 'Prof.' Robinson coming to you 'from the road'. I will be bringing you, along with other members of the band, this year's diary from the "Don't Hurt the Rastaman" Tour 2001.
North America 2001
We'll be sharing our impressions and thoughts about the people, places and things we encounter on the road.
Well, we're already two weeks into the U.S. leg of the tour and things seem to be coming together nicely. There have been a couple of personnel changes, and the sound is jelling in a different way than it did last year. Dave (Don King) Richards is the new man on bass and Gilbert (Gillie) Spence is on rhythm guitar. Check out the Burning Spear. You'll be so glad you did.
The "Melody Tent". Good name. The place was just overflowing with melody on this night. But, I could tell it would be, from the feeling we got in this undersized, densely seated circus tent type structure. Sound check was very relaxed, yet high energy…everyone seemed to be gearing up for the show hours in advance…relishing the chance to create some magic alongside 'The Burning One'. Everything promised to fall right into place. Mikey is busy fine tuning his drum mix…and I'm standing behind him trying to pick up some knowledge. He has ears like a producer…by the time he's satisfied, you know everyone else will be too. Stewie and Bassie are working on different ways to approach some of the chords in Rocking Time.
The evening was devoted to music and food, and there was plenty of good food for all to enjoy. In fact, the event was called a music and food festival. The different performers that night totally lived up to the Music part of the billing.
The show itself, was quietly intense onstage. In the audience, there was pure celebration. "Jah No Dead" and "Identity" gave them just a small taste of the burning reggae to come.
Greetings, Burning Spear fans, wherever you may be. This is Micah 'Prof.' Robinson coming to you 'from the road'. I will be bringing you, along with other members of the band, this year's diary from the "Don't Hurt the Rastaman" Tour 2001.
North America 2001
We'll be sharing our impressions and thoughts about the people, places and things we encounter on the road.
Well, we're already two weeks into the U.S. leg of the tour and things seem to be coming together nicely. There have been a couple of personnel changes, and the sound is jelling in a different way than it did last year. Dave (Don King) Richards is the new man on bass and Gilbert (Gillie) Spence is on rhythm guitar. Check out the Burning Spear. You'll be so glad you did.
The "Melody Tent". Good name. The place was just overflowing with melody on this night. But, I could tell it would be, from the feeling we got in this undersized, densely seated circus tent type structure. Sound check was very relaxed, yet high energy…everyone seemed to be gearing up for the show hours in advance…relishing the chance to create some magic alongside 'The Burning One'. Everything promised to fall right into place. Mikey is busy fine tuning his drum mix…and I'm standing behind him trying to pick up some knowledge. He has ears like a producer…by the time he's satisfied, you know everyone else will be too. Stewie and Bassie are working on different ways to approach some of the chords in Rocking Time.
The evening was devoted to music and food, and there was plenty of good food for all to enjoy. In fact, the event was called a music and food festival. The different performers that night totally lived up to the Music part of the billing.
The show itself, was quietly intense onstage. In the audience, there was pure celebration. "Jah No Dead" and "Identity" gave them just a small taste of the burning reggae to come.
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