Reality Chant & Israel Starr, Future Navigator Review
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Reality Chant is back, and they have teamed up with vocalist Israel Starr for their latest EP titled, Future Navigator. Israel ‘Starr’ Buchanan is the most recent recipient of the 2017 VNZMA for Best Roots Artist. He is also a two-time winner of the Best Roots Album at the WMMA’s in both 2016 & 2017. Starr is also the son of celebrated New Zealand reggae vocalist The Mighty Asterix. Reality Chant is a production duo from the South Island of Aotearoa, New Zealand. The duo is comprised of Gabriel “Messenjah” Calcott and Midnight Dubs and together they have emitted multiple projects that have cemented the duo’s sound as a global force in reggae production. Future Navigator has three-tracks, each presenting the song in a different sonic and setting. The first, includes the trio doing an impressive riddim with vocalist Starr. The second version is a dub that includes Starr’s vocals and the third is an instrumental version without Starr’s vocals. All three tracks have Reality Chant’s deep Jamaican roots and stylistic sound throughout with a full and balanced production. That’s the short of it!
Positives:
Slick, tight and enjoyable production with Starr’s voice adding to energy and emotion. The lyrics are imaginative, and the music is deeply felt.
Bottom Line:
Reality Chant has a sound that is defining modern roots reggae and Future Navigator is another well-rounded production by duet. Set to a Reggae groove that is steeped in tradition, the horns provide a full commentary over the rhythmic pulse of the syncopated keyboard figure. Vocal harmonies intensify the melody at key moments and serve as a call and response setting for Starr’s vocals. The dub version is subtle with a retro 70s-80s vibe. The instrumental version is another look at Reality Chant’s excellent production skills, which add up to a stunning listen.