Fear Nuttin Band – Move Positive
Track Listing:
1.) Move Positive
2.) Rebel
3.) Oh My
4.) Real Life Soldiers
5.) Standing By The Wall
6.) She Said
7.) Happens So Fast
8.) Informer
9.) Everything
10.) So Regular
11.) People Living Together
The Pier Album Rating:
Label: BoomBlaze Records
Release Date: April 5th, 2011
Artist Background:
Fusing the metal intensity, dancehall rhythms, and socially conscious lyrics, Fear Nuttin Band’s undergone some intense maturing over the past few years. After spending some time on the road and meeting with various producers, the multinational sextet is read to drop their sophomore album Move Positive which sees the band taking large steps in the overall improvement of their songwriting, whilst retaining the soaring metal guitars and reggae beats that separate them from the pack.
Album Review:
When I first put Move Positive on my stereo, my first thoughts were “Oh god, not another Skindred.” But thankfully, instead of what I thought would be a rehash Skindred’s reggae meets hardcore approach, Fear Nuttin Band takes their own path of reggae-metal glory, fusing a diverse rhythm section with two charismatic West Indian frontmen.
Move Positive opens with a two guitar assault, shooting Iron Maiden harmonies out of a metal revolver, but quickly reverts to a slinking dancehall groove without missing a beat. Dual vocalists Roosta and Prowla trade verses on the importance of positive living and keeping Jah pon my side, while distorted guitars leapfrog through the song here and there. Thankfully, the hardcore intensity never overpowers the reggae dance groove, keeping the riddims well-grounded in West Indies music lore, despite the fury and aggression the band’s more metal leanings might unleash.
The rest of the album follows the same basic formula as Move Positive scattering elements of reggae, dance-hall, and metalcore a la Shadows Fall through the tracks. Roosta and Prowlah’s lyrical subjects generally strike social issues and rasta-inspired guidelines for a positive life, although She Said, which starts as a gorgeous piano ballad and quickly rolls into the reggae-metal format, shows off their soft side, lamenting a heartbroken lady and a failing relationship.
Although Fear Nuttin is undeniably at their best melding reggae and metal within the same track, Move Positive does showcase a few tracks that fall exclusively into one genre, the success of which can be at times debatable. Happens So Fast has all the makings of a great hardcore track, but the its execution seems to be missing the necessary ‘oomph; to really charge the mosh pit. Thankfully, Everything restores faith in the band’s heavier sensibilities, with driving rhythms and frantic dual guitar interplay. On the flip side, the sunshine-filled Informer is so laid-back and vibes-ridden, it could be mistaken for a Michael Franti track.
Band’s that take risks usually offer up the most rewarding albums. While Move Positive may miss a step here and there, the the strategically arranged volley of reggae and metal that blasts from the speakers could certainly be considered one of the best efforts at a reggae/hardcore mix since the legendary Bad Brains.
Written & Reviewed by:
Chris Castro
[Editors Note: All reviews are reflective of the album in it’s entirety, from start to finish. These reviews are the honest opinion of each writer/reviewer, expressing their feedback as a genuine fan of the music. Each star rating reflects their review of the album, not the band. Music is subjective. Regardless of the review or star rating, we encourage you to listen to the music yourself & form your own opinion. Spread the awareness of all music in its art & contribution]