Music
The best kept secret in music
Press
This band has no press
Discography
Anthology - H.R.
The H.R. Tapes '84-86 - H.R.
Human Rights - H.R.
Singin' In The Heart - H.R.
Charge - H.R.
Photos
Bio
HR, also known as Ras Hailu Gabriel Joseph I, made himself a name as the frontman for Bad Brains. HR's solo albums are a pure reggae experience. Seeing how HR is a devout Rastafarian it's an easy (and I would venture to say "expected") transition from Bad Brains' "rastacore" to somewhat more traditional reggae beats.
HR's solo albums are where his political viewpoints really shine--his music calls for an end to racism and oppression while seeking social equality for all; in other words, it's about love.
"Anthology" is a compilation of HR's solo albums from the mid to late 1980's. Included are 17 songs picked from four different HR albums--"Singin' in the Heart," "Charge (1989)," "Human Rights (1987)," and "HR Tapes '84-'86."
The tracks that stand out the most are "Just Because I'm Poor," "Fool's Gold," and "I Love King Jah." I believe these songs really get right to the heart and soul of what HR's music, and reggae in general, are about. Other notables on "Anthology" are definitely "No Return," "Shame in Dem Game," and "Youthman Sufferer." The album is pretty consistent though, and there certainly aren't any songs that seem out of place or under done.
"Anthology" is a great introduction to HR--whether a Bad Brains fan who hasn't heard any of HR's solo albums or a reggae fan who just hasn't discovered HR yet. HR's sounds are smooth and mellow. You'll find yourself grooving along to this album in no time.
Links
