From Hardcore to Soft Heart: Bad Brains’ H.R. Reimagines “Attitude” in Ninth Reggae Album Let Luv Lead (The Way)

Growing up, H.R. was a nickname given to reggae master Paul Hudson that meant “Hunting Rod.” As his trademark style developed, and spiritual mission fortified, over the decades to come, he reassigned the initials to signify “Human Rights,” in congruence with his eponymous rock band, launched in ’84. The name was better aligned with his philosophy.

H.R. is known for bringing his Rastafarian flair and deep-seated Bob Marley influences into harmony with hardcore punk outfit Bad Brains, which took D.C. by storm and would go on to revolutionize American music and erode cultural barriers with its rebellious, yet unifying nature.

Long since his hardcore days rousting about with Bad Brains, H.R.’s philosophy has grown more and more to become an integral part of his life’s work and musical mission. His recognizable sound never wavers, but grows gentler and moves closer to the light with each record. He feels his work thus far has led him closer to a divine call toward cultivating peace among people. That call is in full bloom in his ninth and latest record, Let Luv Lead (The Way), released Nov. 17.

“It fulfills the promise,” H.R. affirmed of his latest installment of sonic medicine. “Reggae music has a spiritual sound.” He credits all of the Marley family for the inspiration.

Photo cred: Atiba Jefferson

Opening track, “Psalms 100,” is something of an upbeat sermon rolling in with calm tide, a reassuring whisper on Caribbean wind that sets the tone for the overall record. H.R. owns his roots on Let Luv Lead (The Way), channeling his inspiration into a deeply authentic reggae sound, plus some truly epic collabs to give a modern, versatile edge to his sea of dub.

Passafire’s Ted Bowne produced the record, lending his atmospheric signature that not only understands but celebrates H.R.’s unique vocal whine and spirited rhythm. Bowne even makes an appearance on “Easy,” which is, in fact, an easy listen with a futuristic feel that appeals to listeners wherever they are in life’s journey.

Harrison Stafford, renowned face of Groundation, brings his own roots reggae and dub energy into the cauldron for a spell. Contributions by rapper Chali 2na of  Jurassic Five and Ozomatli, 311’s Nick Hexum and Sonny Sandoval of P.O.D. create an urban melting pot that touches every ilk of listener in an intimate way.

Most notably, Bad Brains’ famed hardcore classic, “Attitude,” is infused with H.R.’s medicinal message and reimagined in true reggae fashion.

Don’t care what they may say

We got that attitude!

Don’t care what you may do

We got that attitude!

Hey, we got that P.M.A.!

Hey, we got the P.M.A.!

Anyone who lingered even on the fringes of the punk scene has chanted those impassioned lyrics. H.R.’s latest iteration transposes the message into a laidback, buoyant melody. Here, aggression is replaced with a soft confidence, without sacrificing any of the strength or assuredness. Punchy rhythm and a horn section that pushes into ska territory, the integrity of the rebellious tune remains intact.

Sandoval’s hypnotic verse drives the message home:

Hey!

What in the world are we gonna do?

Positive point of view

What you decide and what you choose to do

Is only up to you

So no matter what they say, no matter what they do

We leaving Babylon and I suggest you come too

When no good for dem brains

Get out of my way

Sonny Dread, Uncle H

Recognize so don’t give I no …

“This version is more loving to God,” said H.R., who shared that Bowne played a big part in rejuvenating the classic hit. The singer was happy to infuse even more positivity into P.M.A. (positive mental attitude). “It shows the youth the truth.”

The seven tracks to follow lean more into traditional roots reggae, despite a few modern highlights tastefully woven into each track under Bowne’s guiding hand, such as a futuristic synth line to complement H.R.’s distinct percussive vocal delivery or a spirited guitar solo to ramp things up. Each track serves to further emphasize messages of peace, love, service, prayer and thanksgiving.

“Jah Wings” closes out the opus with an enlightening track punctuated with horns, a funky beat, clean negative space and Chali 2na’s climactic verse, drawing away the veil for some harsh truths to be placed back in the hands of the people.

“The theme of the album is universal love with a proper understanding,” H.R. affirmed, “and I tried to convey the feeling of harmony, love and unity.”

Mission accomplished.

H.R. intends to take Let Luv Lead on tour “as soon as possible; Jah willing.”

The album is now available on a limited blue vinyl via shop.law-records.com.