The Monkey Man

You better believe it.

In Reggae, there are some very influential cats. Black Uhuru. The Wailers. Steel Pulse. The venerable Bob Marley. While all were highly regarded and inspired many, none were quite as prolific and varied as Toots and the Maytals, with a career spanning over four decades. Artists like The Clash, Sublime, The Specials, among others cite The Maytals as a venerable influence in their inspiration.

"Monkey Man" was their first international hit in 1970, and it's only right that we have it today. However, this collaborative effort with No Doubt, off of The Maytals 2005 release True Love, is a fun, quirky track. The strong, bright, brassy start immediately kicks the song into gear. No Doubt's Gwen Stephani's vocals add a both a great blend and counterpoint at various points, making it a really fun song to sing in a car (or, if you are so inclined, in a shower). The beat is driving, the bass line is simplistic and infectious. It even has a good ending... almost like the song was recorded spontaneously at an impromptu jam session.

Sometimes magic happens. That's what this song sounds like. Frenetic, magical happiness. Have to smile when I hear this.



The late nights are getting to me. As I said, I'm old. Stay tuned for Double Friday, as well as a write up of the small show I went to last night.
-om