Biografi Artis
The Amharic named after the traditional language of Ethiopia, were a roots-orientated trio based in the UK. They comprised Danny Henry (lead vocals/drums) who performed alongside, Ronnie Lion (bass/keyboards/guitar) and Victor ‘Jazzbo’ Downes (keyboards/vocals). Each performer had already established notoriety within the UK reggae scene. Downes worked for Trojan Records and also performed as a DJ on the sound systems, while Lion and Henry worked as session musicians. In 1992, Ronnie Lion established Lion Roots with Ras Joseph Lion Art and together they collectively built a solid reputation. The group was established at the Brixton, London-based studio where they worked with such notables as, Roy Shirley, Pablo Gad, Steven Wright and Little Roy. In 1993, the Amharic released the thought provoking single, ‘African Gold’ albeit with a different line-up. Shortly after the recording surfaced the revised line-up re-recorded the song which was featured on their debut, 1990’s. Notable tracks included the title track, ‘Hooligan’, ‘Redeeming Quality’ and the probing, ‘(Weh Dem A Go Do) When We Mash Dem Down’. The group featured on much of Lion Roots output including sessions with Delroy Washington, the Twinkle Brothers, Michael Prophet and Earl Sixteen, in addition to the previously mentioned performers. In 1996, the group performed at a variety of events in Europe including the Vienna Sound, Deutsche Kingsfield and Jura Hills festival. The latter presentation featured Cedella Marley Booker and the acclaimed roots ambassador, Iqulah Rastafari. In 1997, the group promoted and performed at A Night Of Roots and Culture featuring the Twinkle Brothers, Pablo Gad, Roy Shirley, the Mighty Diamonds, Sister Allison, Princess Sharifa and Hughie Izachaar. Later in that same year the group toured Italy which included a concert supporting Ziggy Marley And The Melody Makers in Rome. Also in 1997 the band began working on their second studio album which was released in 1998. The Amharic were often compared to the vocal groups of the 70s and the release of His Imperial Majesty asserted their just position in amongst that elite pantheon. The album was applauded with vivacity and featured notable tracks such as, ‘Hustling Juggling’, ‘Red Sea’, ‘Born As A Free Man’, alongside live tracks recorded at the Night Of Roots and Culture ‘Survivor’ and ‘Good Saints’.
Asal
Genre
Reggae