Not only did reggae star Jah Bouks bring with him the heat of his native Jamaica to Seattle, as it was a rare, sunny 82 degrees, but he also brought the heat of his new album “Long Awaiting.” The setting could not have been more authentic as the release party was held at local restaurant A Taste of Caribbean.
Fans descended on the venue to meet the Angola General himself, who busied himself taking pictures and signing autographs before giving an impromptu performance of “Hot It Up” from his sizzling new album. Unbeknownst to the fans, earlier in the day, this was the scene for the official video shoot for “Hot It Up,” featuring a guest appearance by local dancehall artist Jholi.
For a day, Jah Bouks transported us to Jamaica without boarding an aircraft and treated us to that blend of positivity, good vibes, and cultural acknowledgment that is uniquely his. Seattle learned the meaning of his catchphrase “Iley, as I would say… Yes, Rasta!” The only thing missing from Jamaica was the sand between our toes.
“Long Awaiting” is Jah Bouks’ first studio album since his mega-hit “Call Angola.” The 12-track album ranges from love songs to social criticism to the need for a spiritual connection with nature and God. The opening track “One Hit Wanda” is an apparent jab at those who considered Jah Bouks just that, a one-hit-wonder… “as I would say!”
