As we approach the one-year anniversary of the MIDNIGHT RAVER BLOG, I feel obligated to share something special with those of you who have supported us over the past year. So this week I hope to share a few things that the average reggae fan will find intriguing.
Today, I’m sharing the “Sons of Jah Rehearsal Tape.” This tape is an excellent audio outtake from a Bob Marley and the Wailers rehearsal session from 1977. The band is touring Europe in support of the Exodus album. Of note on this recording is a sublime version of “Waiting In Vain.”
According to my good friend and MIDNIGHT RAVER BLOG contributor Fred at http://voiceofthesufferers.fr, the Sons of Jah are a reggae music group based in England, created by Trevor Bow (who created the Natty Congo label as well). Trevor Bow was friends with Bob Marley. His home in London was at Talbot Road. Based on the name given this tape, itis likely that the Sons of Jah (Trevor Bow, Howard Haughton, Bunny Mckenzie, Derrick Donaldson) were present for this session.
The Sons of Jah released 4 albums between 1978 and 1982 and disbanded in the mid-80s.
It is noted by Werner (Wailers collector), Stephen Davis did few lines regarding a special session held in 1977 with the 4 first tracks we have here. It is referenced in his book ‘Bob Marley – Conquering Lion Of Reggae.’
Bob Marley and the Wailers
The Sons of Jah Acoustic Tape
London 1977
01 – Exodus
02 – Jammin
03 – Waiting In Vain
04 – So Much Things To Say
05 – Misty Morning
06 – She’s Gone
07 – Time Will Tell
08 – Unknown Jam
09 – Rainbow Country
DOWNLOAD LOSSLESS (FLAC) AUDIO
“This tape starts off with Exodus that is probably from a different session but it is included on here because it fits in well and it is often included in most sources of this session. Sons of Jah is a tape that just sits with you forever. The sweet version of Waiting in Vain that last’s 19 minutes is just stunning. Bob Works with his voice so many different ways and by the end he is really in a great groove. Half way through So Much Things To Say there is a source switch. Another half of this tape was discovered a few years ago but someone has tampered with the sound. There is a strange echo and other effects added on but the music below is just amazing. Acoustic versions of Misty Morning and She’s Gone have been a collector’s dream for many years I am sure. The tape ends with an unknown jam that is possibly not even Bob but who knows. It has been included just in case. ”
