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The Amharic : Roots from BrixtonThe Amharic is a UK band based in Brixton, London. They took their name from the national language of Ethiopia - which according to Rastas, was mankind first language. Several reggae artists as The Abyssinians, Peter Tosh, Prince Lincoln or Misty In Roots released songs in this language. The best example is The Abyssinians’ anthem Satta Massa Gana.
Trio features singer and compositor Danny Amharic - native from St Catherine in Jamaica - and is backed by Ronnie Lion on bass and Victor "Jazzbo" Downes on keyboards and back vocals - both born in London. On stage, horns players and percussions are supporting the band. They’ve been playing some conscious roots reggae since the early nineties, in a style reminding Matumbi, Misty In Roots, Steel Pulse or Black Roots. As their name suggests, they are guided by rasta philosophy and spread intellectual messages throughout their songs.
Their debut album 1990’s was released in 1992 on Lion Inc. label and features 10 tracks including great 1990’s, African Gold, Tell Dem Already and Careful Minded Youths in a more digital style. After His Imperial Majesty album released in 1998 on Lion Inc., they released Descendants - including Why Oh Why or A Thousand Years - in 2002 on Pharos records. This last piece followed on similar vein to precedent ones.
The Amharic play typical UK roots reggae instrumentals, led by the original voice and engaged lyrics of Danny Amharic! The trio is working on a new album which should be released on Pharos records.
A band to listen to and to discover!
We invite you to discover their complete albums discography.
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