One week earlier than leaving for Montego Bay to do a cameo efficiency at Reggae Sumfest’s closing evening, Samory I (born Samory-Tour Frazer) spoke about his plans for the remainder of 2024. These plans embody dates in Europe and the discharge of a deluxe version of ‘Energy’, his 2023 album.
That 11-song set, produced by Phillip “Winta” James, earned sturdy critiques when launched final November by Simple Star Information/Overstand Leisure. In keeping with James, the album will characteristic a canopy of You Will Know, the 1987 hit tune by Stevie Surprise.
Samory I mentioned it was James’ concept to cowl Knock me ’You Will Know’, which is from Surprise’s Characters album.
“We’re engaged on a deluxe model of the album to be launched later this yr. Extra particulars will probably be introduced quickly,” mentioned James, whose credit embody Right here Comes Hassle by Chronixx and Trendy Day Judas by Jesse Royal.
Energy is Samory I’s second album, following the Rory Gilligan (Stonelove)-produced Black Gold which was launched in 2017. Energy received spectacular marks in main publications together with Rolling Stone and Billboard, and naturally right here on World A Reggae.
Samory I mentioned it was James’ concept to cowl Knock Me Off My Ft, which is from Surprise’s basic Songs in The Key of Life album.
With the discharge of Energy’s deluxe version approaching, he’s additionally getting ready for a handful of reveals in Europe in July and August.
Samory I is scheduled to carry out on July 28 at Reggae Jam in Bersenbruck, Germany. On August 9, Samory I is billed for the No Brand Competition in Fraisans, France.
Winta James’ success with ‘new wave reggae acts’ in Jamaica influenced Samory I to work with him. Their collaboration resulted in Energy which had the critics raving.
Writing in Rolling Stone, Director/Photographer/Cinematographer Yannick Reid in contrast it to his debut album which spawned the hit single, Rasta Nuh Gangsta.
“His new album Energy is, much more so, a deeply non secular and handsomely rangy reboot of the roots reggae style, drawing deep from the music’s wealthy historical past whereas re-focusing it on the now,” he noticed.
Energy was named quantity 42 on Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Albums of 2023.
Samory I is wanting ahead to a different crack at Europe the place he’ll share the stage with the likes of Burning Spear, Busy Sign, Romain Virgo, Johnny Clarke, Anthony B and Kabaka Pyramid.
“Is all the time a very good feeling to witness to the individuals concerning the Most Excessive, plus I carry the vibe an’ the power again a dat,” he mentioned.
By Howard Campbell
