I-Taweh launches 'Judgement'

It took Donovan 'I-Taweh' Cunningham about three years to put together his second album, Judgement. The first, titled Overload, was launched four years ago. His timely approach in compiling the second album proved to be a good decision as experienced by all in attendance at the recent album launch.

They were treated to songs that the talented Jamaican described as "spiritual, uplifting music that uplifts your soul, if you are looking for something to lean on, not just something to make the day go by".

The launch took place at the idyllic Nanook on Burlington Avenue, St Andrew.

Nanook came alive with the sounds of horns, congo drums and other small instruments skilfully played by Mystic Revelation. The iconic band had the audience moving to songs such as Rasta Reggae, Give Me Back Mi Language and Mi Culture, Rasta Chant and Ethiopian Serenade. After about 30 minutes of

reflective music from the band, I-Taweh joined his co-workers of 13 years. Armed with his guitar, the keyboardists and his backup singer, he began.

"Tonight is a special night for me," he addressed the gathering "This album is new; first time playing it. And I'm happy to do it right here for you."

And with that, I-Taweh introduced his musical compilation with Come Away. He segued to the next selection declaring, "My people, because the wicked system is evil this one I'm gonna do for you is called Battlefield. Every day we get up, we fighting another war, and we want to know what they are fighting for."

Other songs performed from the album were No Night, Never Fade Away and the only love song on the album, Guinep Tree.

There is no denying that the time spent to compile the 16-track CD bore fruits. Each was creatively written and well arranged. Yet, I-Taweh has a favourite.

"My favourite is My Guitar. It's coming from deep in me. Every time I sing that song I remember growing up in the country in the farming community (Prickly Pole, St Catherine). It was really rough. You had to look your own wood; carry your own water; plant your own food. It was rough so my guitar takes me out of there. So I love that one," he shared with The Gleaner.

Going forward, I-Taweh says he will be taking the album on a tour.