Earl "Chinna" Smith

Beginning from his enlistment in the Soul Syndicate band in the early '70s, Earl "Chinna" Smith's reputation has grown by leaps and bounds. His graceful guitar has backed innumerable reggae artists over the years, as have his own High Times Band and High Times Players. He even recorded a few vocal singles for Keith Hudson back in the '70s under the alias Earl Flute. In the following decade, Smith launched his own High Times label, which failed to slow his own musical output. Even so, it took until 1991 for the legend to finally release his debut solo album, Homegrown, backed, of course, by the High Times Players. It's a set filled with surprises, not least of all by opening with the lush, Euro-fied, new wave tinged, jazz-flecked, dance track "Modern Ska." Ooh-la-la indeed. And jazzy flavors predominate across the first side of the disc, many enhanced by Johnny "Dizzy" Moore's spirited or emotive trumpet solos. "Stone Out of My Mind" gets a bustling reggae workout, however, while a cover of "My Imagination" throws the spotlight most effectively on Smith's guitar work. Built around instrumentals, with vocal choruses sprinkled lightly throughout, side one is a lovely showcase for the guitarist and his band. The real excitement, however, lies on the flipside. There listeners can thrill to a militant, ragga-fied version of Junior Byles' roots masterpiece "Fade Away," and an equally modern sounding "Pick Pocket," albeit with Moore wailing overhead. Roots fans will be even more bowled over by "Daniel," arguably the strongest song on the set, and perfectly evoking the deep roots sound of the late '70s. The title track is equally fabulous, country flavored and enhanced by synth strings and faux harmonica, while overhead Smith boldly brags about the quality of his herb. Smith is an awesome guitarist, an excellent producer, and a middling vocalist, and he shows off all his skills to best advantage on this sumptuous, eclectic set. ~ Jo-Ann Greene, All Music Guide