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Review of Apple Gabriel: "Another Moses"

Jul 30, 1999

It was a shock to reggae fans two years ago when Apple Gabriel announced that he was leaving Israel Vibration. The group had been together since they met in Jamaica in the 1970s. Since then, the other two members of Israel Vibration continued recording and touring, receiving solid reviews despite the noticable absence of Apple's unique vocals. Until recently, though, things had been pretty quiet from Apple himself.

Another Moses is Apple's debut solo album on RAS Records (who also continue to support and release albums from the remaining members of Israel Vibration). Fans will certainly not be disappointed -- even the backing vocals echo of the IV sound. Albert Craig and Lisa-Marie Edwards provide noteworthy production and the backing band includes none other than Flabba Holt on bass and drums. In addition, Tuff Lion is on guitar and Tee Birdd is on piano. They're no Roots Radics, but they hold their own.

Included on this disc are 10 tracks that capture a lot of the spirit that Apple had with Israel Vibration. "Telepathic Wave" starts off the disc in a strong fashion: "I give you my shoulder to cry on / Together we cry and be strong, / I bring you love from Mount Zion -- did you hear? / Jah lifted me up and made me strong." The title track also shines with the strong Rasta spirit: "You fi run babylon, you fi run, / Hotter fire a come, / Run babylon, you fi run, till you tumble down."

Apple Gabriel has a similar appeal to me that Horace Andy has. Despite their polar opposite singing styles -- Horace Andy tends to stretch his notes while Apple is more staccato -- their nasal tone combined with wide range and sense of melody are irresistable. Apple always manages to churn out songs that make you feel good and Another Moses is no different.

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