True to his Roots

What with most reggae legends either deceased (Peter Tosh, Bob Marley), retired (Toots Hibbert, Leonard Dillon), or a mere shadow of what they once were (Black Uhuru, Third World), it's nice to see a living legend who's still right on the money. Beres Hammond has been regarded as one of reggae's finest vocalists for decades now, and age has added a wistful quality to his voice while taking away little of his ability, as the 2001 release Music Is Lifeproves. Although his brand of lovers' rock/reggae gained prominence across Jamaica in the 1980s, only in recent years has Hammond gained wider acceptance. That's led to headlining performances in far-flung locales, such as this week's show in Boca Raton, so maybe acceptance still awaits.