Everyday Prophets (http://www.everydayprophets.com) just might be the only group ever to be both influenced by Bob Marley & the Wailers and Yes. As strange as that might seem, to this iPod-fueled, genre-clashing generation, Everyday Prophets make perfect sense.
The Yes inspiration can be clearly heard in Kevin McKennon's space-age prog-rock synths which colour the band's reggae flavors. On "Burn" and "Come On," the effect is a little disorienting but fun. "Come On" is probably the best disco-fried reggae party tune since Eddy Grant jammed on "Electric Avenue" more than two decades ago. McKennon is truly unleashed on "Come On" as his keyboards pulsate through the song's Jamaican rhythms. As you might expect, Everyday Prophets is more light-hearted than the politically conscious reggae that made a profound impact in the U.S. during the '70s and '80s. I didn't hear much in the way of spiritual fulfillment. These lads strike me as a party group, and a solid one at that.
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"You Move Me" is more conventional reggae, this time showcasing the band's dynamic percussion and throbbing bass. Lyrically, it's fairly straightforward as the group lets their grooves speak for themselves. "One Day to Live" has a cool life-affirming message and tropical island vibes with McKennon's keyboards doing that '70s-'80s thang.
Everyday Prophets do get serious on "Thieves," which describes what they would do if somebody tried to rob them. However, it's nothing grim or depressing, just a slice of life tale that's as tasty as everything else on this album.
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