Guam’s For Peace Band showcases its unique island reggae sound in “Massive & Crew”
I’ve been a huge fan of For Peace Band since listening to the band’s excellent 2018 album, “Always Love” and I was so excited to hear that the band hailing from Guam has released its follow up LP, “Massive & Crew”, which is a big time album showcasing the group’s unique island reggae sound.
When reggae is at its best it makes you think, it makes you feel and inspires you to smile even during difficult days. And For Peace does all these things in a beautiful way.
The band has two singers and what’s so unique is they are the drummer and keyboardist! Freddy Bordallo is one of the smoothest reggae drummers around and his voice is incredible and Jacob Iosia always holds down the keys and brings thoughtful verses and hooks to their music.
The 12 track album is so irie and needs to be a must-listen for all reggae fans! Let me dive into five of my favorite tracks.
The album kicks off with “D.L.Y.C.” a tune about the importance of standing up for yourself. The song has a jamming riddim, conscious lyrics and includes a shredding guitar solo from the band’s guitarist, Kam Quinata.
“Touch Your Soul” is a tune that expresses excitement around the growth of love and appreciating that special someone. The band is so locked in this track. Kam once again drops some major guitar work and Freddy’s vocals are lovely.
One of the album’s stand out tracks, “Fly Up” highlights the grooving bass of Zack Quinata. This song is one of my favorite songs of the last couple of years and provides an inspirational message to never give up on your dreams. It also emphasizes the importance of showing love and giving back to your community.
The band teams with Hawaii’s Jah Maoli in the title track and the result is a unique tune that is perfect to drop on any dance floor. The band urges us to leave our worries aside and to let loose with reggae music. Jah Maoli’s verse is epic and compliments the band’s vocals so well.
Cool down the vibes with “Listen To the Riddim” - a new tune about the love of creating music. When you listen to certain groups like For Peace Band you can especially hear how much they enjoy writing and recording, and this album highlights the band’s passion in a major way.
By CB.
