Free Rein

Many reggae bands use freedom as a lyrical and philosophical linchpin, but Rebelution live it musically. On their seventh studio album, the California crew move outside their core lively-up-yourself strengths of plugged-in reggae with acoustic jams like "Healing" and "Constellation." On “Trap Door,” guitarist Eric Rachmany punches in a sky-high solo that would grab Carlos Santana's attention. When Rebelution go back to their roots-reggae wheelhouse, they go hard. “Celebrate,” “City Life,” and “Settle Down Easy” are trademark Rebelution: all positive lyrics and rub-a-dub rhythms. For maximum authenticity, the band brought in acclaimed Jamaican producers Phillip "Winta" James (Protoje, Damian Marley) and Don Corleon (Sean Paul, Rihanna) to finesse the melodies and bedrock bass.