Blowing with the Wind

by Alex HendersonA rare example of a reggae instrumentalist, Augustus Pablo has enjoyed a small cult following in Jamaican circles. The melodica player/keyboardist was never as well known as Peter Tosh, Dennis Brown or Burning Spear, but is well respected among more knowledgeable reggae devotees. Like many reggae artists, he is heavily influenced by American soul and R&B, but he also shows an awareness of African, Asian and Middle Eastern music. After recording many memorable albums in previous decades, Pablo leaped into the '90s with the solid "Blowing in the Wind." From the haunting qualities of "Eastern Code," "Blowing with the Wind" and "Ancient Harmonies" to the pleasant optimism of "Twinkling Stars" and "Creation Blues," this is one of many CDs he can be proud of.