Bedouin Soundclash are one of the best musical experiences you can have. The way they infuse rock, reggae and ska together, take it from a Caribbean guy, they're legit. Root Fire's where it started and it definitely paves the way for them to go bouncier and poppier, as they rightfully did on ensuing records. All without losing too much of their essence. This album's lyrically deep, historically accurate when they talk about Caribbean elements, and still allows frontman Jay Malinowski to take his own spin on things. His raw, husky vocals had my friends going "Wait, that's a Canadian white boy?". They were absolutely floored in his delivery and it's no secret why he's a big part of their magic.

The slow burners of "Rebel Rouser" and "Dub in the Kalamegdan" show the home they draw from. Bass-heavy Jamiacan music. Eon Sinclair (whose roots are from Guyana) thumps the bass in manner that'd have fans of Maxi Priest and the Skatalites up in arms. As much as Malinowski's vocals reel you in, Sinclair forms the melodies along with the departed Pat Pengelly on drums. They all complement each other so well with a neat alternative spin that leaves the questions answered as to why SideOneDummy snatched them up. This album starts off their soulful, heartfelt trip and everything that comes after shows how emotionally powerful they are (without being too subversive or appropriating). They have a smart grasp on Caribbean culture and when their new record drops later this year (if rumors are to prove correct), I hope they bring back in the maracas and bongos found on Root Fire. If we get more tracks like "Santa Monica" and "Mountain Top" as well as the hits off everything in between, we'll be in good hands.