Jamaica jams, the strength of a tribe of lions and the power of a mystical vision combine forces for a fantastic and memorable night of the very best reggae music at the El Rey Theater. “Burning Spear is classic old-school reggae, one of the top five reggae bands in the world; absolutely classic,” says Mike Koster of Southwest Roots Music. “The idea was to make it a big blowout reggae night with the best locals to complement the best international reggae band.”Koster’s organization has combined with “Southwest Stages” to bring Albuquerque a truly amazing show, which will raise funds for the nonprofit. This full night of music will be recorded live and used in a broadcast at a later date on “Southwest Stages,” to be aired all over the southern United States.The night will begin with Mystic Vision, a local band that has opened for some of the best reggae bands in the business. Vision has been keeping crowds dancing, with their high energy grooves and thoughtful lyrics, for over a decade. Burning Spear will follow with their funky roots reggae sizzle and the night will end with a Golden West after-party performance by Taos band Lion Tribe, a yet-to-be-discovered musical gem. Koster, well-known for his annual Thirsty Ear Festival, is an eclectic music lover. Priding himself on his extensive collection of grunge rock, he more often books Americana and blues music but feels it’s time to “move in a new direction in Southwest Roots Music” with this latest booking. It’s nice to see local promoters bringing up local bands, and Koster is smart enough to know that if you support local music, the locals will support you. Welcome, Burning Spear, and que viva la musica de Nuevo Mexico!
Burning Spear and Mystic Vision perform Thursday, May 4, at El Rey Theater. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The show is an all-ages and nonsmoking event. Tickets are $25 in advance (Bookworks and Natural Sound or 505-473-5723 in Santa Fe), $29 at the door. Over-21 after-party with Lion Tribe in the Golden West Saloon.
