Sierra Nevada World Music Festival is less then four months away, and is the first major summer reggae festival of the season. This will be SNWMF’s second time in the beautiful town of Boonville CA. This festival has brought a worldwide line-up of artists to the small hamlet in Mendocino county. Expect a little better organization with camping and parking. Hopefully the Mendocino county sheriffs  will leave their dogs at the station this year, as they have seen what a peaceful vibe  “Sierra” brings to the Coast Range hills.

Last Years performance highlights include the legendary singer Ken Boothe, the original, great, Daddy U Roy.  Don Carlos, who is always so good to his loyal fans, one Rastaman that is blessed and humble all the while. Michael Prophet from old school Yabby You sounds was there. New talent like the Neutral Sisters gained many more fans after their set ended. Fantan Mojah brought his soulful and reverent songs hailing the King as only Fantan could.

This years line-up has yet to be fully announced. The two bands that are confirmed as of now, is the multi-talented artist that needs no introduction, Junior Kelly. His album, and title track song “Love So Nice” swept over the reggae massive worldwide and dominated airwaves after its release in 2001. His sophomore album “Smile”(2003), and third album “ Tough Life” released in 2005 have had great reception in the global reggae community.

The second band announced, is the amazing group of musicians from Africa, The Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars. This band brings together musicians who survived the civil war of Sierra Leone, by living as refugees in The Republic of Guinea. This is modern roots reggae music out of Africa, and is the real deal, yu nuh wha mi seh? Their CD titled “Living Like A Refugee” is a two disc album recorded both in the field at the refugee camp in  Guinea, and in full session format at Island studio in Sierra Leone, Africa.

Stay tuned for future announcements on other artists added to the lineup by checking out Sierra Nevada World Music Festival’s website, www.snwmf.com , or here at www.bigupradio.com Be sure to tell your friends and family as this is a must stop destination on the summer festival tour.

Jah Guide and Protect,
 
M. Patton
Staff Writer