The heartbeat. It’s our first sense of rhythm, of life. The universal pulse connecting all of humanity through the link of vitality. It is this connection to lifeforce that is at the root of Nyabinghi, the oldest order of the Rastafarian faith, widely known for its percussive heartbeat drumming accompanied by chant.… Read More
Coming off the success of 2016’s Billboard Reggae Chart topper Golden released on the Rootfire Cooperative, The Movement is back with their first single of 2018, “Cool Me Down.” Contrary to its title, this slow-burner from the South Carolina reggae-rockers brings the heat.… Read More
I’ll never forget the day, a little over a year ago, when Seth Herman sat down in my living room and asked if I would carry the torch of Rootfire. I was shocked at first, then honored, humbled and a little bit terrified because Seth is a true visionary with impossible shoes to fill.… Read More
As I stepped off the plane in Rochester, NY on December 30, I was greeted by two baggage handlers declaring with a smile, “Welcome to sunny Rochester. Please enjoy our white sandy beaches.” This, of course, was in reference to the snow that had been falling, and would continue to fall well in to next year as the temperature hovered in the single digits.… Read More
A series exploring photos, words, and songs.
Photos: Arik Solberg
Words: Dave Shiffman
Songs: ♫ on Spotify
The changing of the seasons has always been a significant element of my life. It has come to be something I genuinely appreciate, and would miss should I move away to a more tropical climate one day. … Read More
Back in the 90’s, the American reggae scene contained only a fraction of the bands it does today. The majority of touring acts came from either Jamaica or Africa, but there were a handful of American bands throughout the country playing local shows.… Read More
Hovering over the stereo, record, play and pause buttons engaged, waiting to unleash the spinning of the tape deck the second that favorite new song starts on the radio. Notepad open to the right as the order of the latest mixtape is charted out, this one guaranteed to prove those tastemaker skills to its unexpecting recipient.… Read More
