It wouldn’t be December at the Wedgewood Rooms without an annual Dreadzone Xmas party… and as ever, the mighty Dread were on fire.
It’s hard to believe the band are coming up to just a year short of 30 years in the business. Even then, the rhythm section of Greg Dread and bassist Leo Williams pre-date the group, having previously formed Big Audio Dynamite during the late ’80s. Likewise, with the additional vocals of Earl 16 being that of a reggae legend in his own right.
Dreadzone – Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms
As for Dreadzone themselves, last year’s show didn’t happen for obvious reasons.
However, just like seeing old friends, MC Spee and the guys were clearly pleased to be back. The yearly Dreadzone gig at the Wedgewood Rooms really is a date we all look forward to, complete with plenty of regular faces.
Although despite an annual appearance in Portsmouth, there have been a few changes over the years. There was a touching tribute this evening to former friend and long-time roadie Loki. Plus, these days the band also perform without a guitarist. As such the setlist featured several tracks from the most recent album “Dread Times”, allowing Leo and his multicoloured bass strings to be turned up a bit more in the mix.
Only Dread Can Take Over
The result, just like the aforementioned album, it became a largely dub-oriented set. Although one of several stand-out tunes “Music Army” could be a Dreadzone anthem in itself. Yet in contrast, there’s also the occasional dance classic along the way in the form of “Iron Shirt” and of course “Little Britain”.
Somewhat surprisingly, there’s no room for anything from Eye on the Horizon this evening. Upon its release back in 2010 the album barely left my stereo, but as a lover of all things dub, the more chilled out “Dread Times” is still a classic.
In fact, I’d probably go as far as to say it’s a release more suited to the current audience. After all, the bouncing crew may have aged a little – with many of us less mobile than we used to be, but if not in body, Dreadzone still get the Wedge jumping in spirit.
Same again next year? As is tradition…
Life, love and unity. Mr Teeth
