We Did Then

With the Dublin music scene starting to reflect the city’s growing cosmopolitan make-up, Kingsativa have long been flying the flag for the roots and reggae quarter.

We Did Then, their debut, is an impressive enough piece of homegrown dub that offers up hope for the future of original music in a world full of tribute bands. All the elements are in place from the booming bass to the excellent vocals of Liam Nolan and the rather vague lyrics of peace, love and understanding. Non-aficionados may find that their attention begins to stray somewhat but will be brought round by ‘Listen To The Man’s soul style brass stabs and the guitar drenched ‘Where Do You Stand’.

Sure they probably sound a lot better in a late night club or on a sunny festival afternoon but Kingsativa have emerged from the studio in a wholly positive light. It may not quite crackle with the blood, fire and thunder of classic ’70s Jamaican dub (then again, what does?) but We Did Then is a fine calling card.