ISRAEL VIBRATION
IV
(Ras)

This originally ran in the St. Louis Post Dispatch in 1993.

With the release of "IV," Israel Vibration's fourth studio album for RAS records, this legendary vocal group solidifies its position as one of reggae's all-time greats.

Formed in the late 70's, this critically-acclaimed trio disbanded in 1982 after recording some of the finest music to ever come from Jamaica. After a six year hiatus, RAS persuaded the group to reform and the rest, as they say, is history.

Israel Vibration's music has always been top-notch and this disc is no exception. With relentless rhythms, emotional vocals and irresistable hooks, the nine tracks on "IV," opening with "You Never Know" and including such tracks as "Falling Angels," "Hard Times" and "Babylon By Bus," are essential.

The members - Wiss, Apple and Skelly - are accomplished writers and once again address conscious and spiritual themes. Their custom since "Strength Of My Life" in 1988, with songs in order by Wiss, Apple, then Skelly, is also intact (yet for some reason the last song by Wiss and Apple on this release was switched). Regardless, the group's unique trademark vocals mesh perfectly while the backing of the Roots Radics sounds as hot as ever.

Although each member was afflicted with polio as a youth, it has not stopped them from creating some of the most uplifting and righteous music ever. From the interesting cover to the well-done booklet (with liner notes and lyrics), this is an extremely powerful and sincere package from one of reggae's most important groups.






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