Music » Choice Concerts

PROGRESSIVE REGGAE | Black Castle

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With steadfast willpower, Ithaca-based Black Castle honors Jamaican, Euro-electronic, and Eastern, spiritual soundscapes just the same. This refreshing alchemy results in what is contemporary reggae's equivalent to modern jazz. Black Castle's worldly, wise, and progressive disposition evokes mid-2000s groups like Asian Dub Foundation and Groove Armada. Reggae-wise, next-of-kin are artists like Matisyahu, Midnite, and Burning Spear. Exalted melodies by lead singer Elliot Martin guide an ascent through roots-rock-reggae to something astonishingly original. Martin provided vocals for renowned reggae outfit John Brown's Body for many years. This passion project also features members of regionally sourced groups like Big Mean Sound Machine and 10 Ft. Ganja Plant.

Black Castle performs along with Mosaic Foundation and Personal Blend on Saturday, April 20, 9 p.m. at Flour City Station, 170 East Avenue. $10-$15. Ages 21 and over. 454-2966. flourcitystation.com; blackcastle.bandcamp.com.