Friday, September 30, 2016

Album Review of The Process Who Is That Mad Band? at CultchaClash.com

Album Review of The Process Who Is That Mad Band? At CultchaClash.com
By Jon J Cut Soldanels
I wasn't familiar with Detroit's The Process before their current album Who Is That Mad Band? was sent to me via file transfer by their vocalist and co-founder (alongside Garrick Owen), David Asher. It immediately got my attention due to contributions from some of my musical heroes from the On-U Sound & Tackhead camp - namely Adrian Sherwood and Skip "Little Axe" McDonald as well as Ghetto Priest, David Harrow and the Mighty Upsetter, Lee "Scratch" Perry.
Upon further research I found that the band has been fusing Rock & Reggae since 1989, ("On a mission to fight ignorance, apathy and social retardation," says their website), they have produced 8 albums and several singles (available Here). Besides the On-U Sound collaborators, there is a Mothership connection in the band as well, with drummer Gabe Gonzalez who played with the P-Funk All-Stars. The album also features one of the last recordings from Dick Wagner, a name previously unfamiliar to me but after some research it became apparent that I'm well aware of his work with Lou Reed, Alice Cooper and Kiss to name but a few.

The 13 song album is strong all the way through, starting with the rocking "Mystery Babylon" that would appeal to a fan of Bad Brains heavy Reggae sound. Next comes "Dr. Jeckyll & Mr. Hyde" on which genetic modification becomes the topic. "Tribute (To the Heroes)" is one of my favorites on the album, as the title implies an homage to the legends, with a hype steppers riddim and an ill clavichord track, it's definitely a powerful tune. More Roots, Rock, Reggae on "Fire Is Burning," the dub of this one is also included and is well wicked! "Dear Mr. Fantasy" has a driving electronic rhythm with a ballad-like feel. There's more Rasta-Inspired consciousness and progressive Reggae on "The Lion Of Judah Hath Prevailed" and "Psalms Of David." On "It's No Secret" there is a strong world-roots vibe. "Gypsy Wind" is another Reggae rocker and "Time Has Come," with it's unique structure and sparseness, has an On-U Sound feel without a doubt.
"Return The Treasures" brings more reality lyrics from Ghetto Priest and Lee "Scratch" Perry and brings it once more with a super-tough dub.
The only complaint I have about this album, being the vinyl fiend that I am, is that it is not (yet) available on wax. If it were within my powers to press it myself, I would but I understand that that isn't a cheap...shall i say, Process. Big Up The Process, keep doing what you do! :) selecta j-cut
selectajcut.com


Welcome to CultchaClash.com where Music and Art serve as solace to the tedium of a commodified existence. Putting the spotlight on the oft overlooked, those creating not for intents of profit, but of purity, progress, evolution of consciousness or to uplift the downtrodden. DIY is the ethos, Now Or Never the mantra, forever exploring and learning , only stagnation should be avoided.


Monday, September 19, 2016

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

THE PROCESS album "Who Is That Mad Band?" is in consideration for a 2017 GRAMMY Award. If you are a voting NARAS (National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences) member, please support THE PROCESS in our bid. Thank you!