He's Kindof Like Shaggy

Today we’re talking about reggae—not conscious reggae, best demonstrated by the tunes of Bob Marley, Peter Tosh or even Bermuda’s own Mishka—but dance hall, a heavier, beatier style of music. Admittedly it’s never been my favorite. Maybe I’m getting old but it’s just too loud, too enthusiastic. Care to disagree? Just go to a live show. When the guy next to you pulls out an air horn and unleashes its full fury to the delight of the crowd, you might get a sense of what I’m talking about. Of course, I’m not trying to bash the music—there are plenty of decent dance hall singers out there—and one that immediately comes to mind is another Bermuda artist, Collie Buddz. The Bermuda born reggae singer first shot to fame with his 2007 debut single “Come Around,” and his latest single, “Come Down,” was released earlier this month. They’re catchy tunes (as far as dance hall goes) and fortunately for the artist formerly known as Colin Harper, he’ll be performing in the United States on a 20-city tour this summer. If I was anywhere near Boston, Philly or one of the 18 other stops on the tour I’d snap up tickets immediately. Why? Buddz will be opening for ska-rockers Slightly Stoopid, rap group Cypress Hill and reggae veterans Steel Pulse. It's sure to be a great show, but I have a feeling the green room might get a little smoky this summer.