After almost three a long time of constructing music, Harrison Stafford calls Candle Burning considered one of his proudest works but. This new Groundation album, set for launch on Might twenty third, is recorded straight to 2” analog tape at ICP Studios in Brussels, will seize the heat, depth, and uncooked musicianship which have outlined the band’s sound. However past the technical brilliance, Candle Burning stands aside due to its message—one which shifts from exposing the world’s injustices to embracing hope, mild, and the fragility of life itself.
As we instructed you earlier this week, The album’s journey begins with “Power”, a observe that emerges from darkness, setting the tone for an exploration of two sorts of mild—the everlasting mild of affection and hope, and the particular person flame that burns inside every of us. Because the album unfolds, it reminds us that whereas our personal candle will someday exit, we should defend it, share it, and maintain it robust. This highly effective narrative builds towards the ultimate observe, “Anew”, the place a fading one-drop groove slows till the final saxophone breath blows out the candle—however not as an ending. As a substitute, it alerts rebirth and renewal of spirit.
Collaboration with Reggae & World Music Icons
Including to the load of this undertaking, Harrison shared that, Candle Burning options 4 legendary voices, every a cornerstone of world music:
- Alpha Blondy – The Ivorian reggae pioneer who formed the African reggae sound.
- Mutabaruka – The fearless dub poet, identified for his revolutionary spoken phrase.
- Mykal Rose – The Grammy-winning Black Uhuru frontman, a defining voice in roots reggae.
- Thomas Mapfumo – The Chimurenga music legend who introduced Zimbabwe’s mbira sound to the world stage, even performing earlier than Bob Marley at Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980.
Collectively, these icons, mixed with Groundation’s signature musicianship, create an album that transcends genres, generations, and borders—a deeply intentional piece of artwork that seeks to provide mild in unsure occasions.
Candle Burning isn’t simply one other launch—it’s a motion, a meditation, a message. With its historic collaborations, masterful compositions, and deeply reflective storytelling, this album stands as considered one of Groundation’s most important contributions to reggae and world music. As Candle Burning prepares to mild up the world, that is an album that calls for to be heard!
