2009 Monterey Bay Reggae Festival: Richie Spice of Jamaica performs with his band on the main stage at the Monterey Fairgrounds on Friday evening. Nic Coury
2009 Monterey Bay Reggae Festival
Unity, peace and music come together at the 14th year for reggae.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Although he wasn't there, Bob Marley's message of one love and respect for each other was definiely present.
"The music gets people together," says Rocky Allen Bailey, MC for the festival, which takes place at the Monterey Fairgrounds every September. "We want people to get the message that we are one and that everyone should see people as people in one love."
The festival, in its 14th year, brings together fans of all age and ethnic groups to celebrate the history and culture of reggae music.
"The vibes are nice and (the music) brings a lot of love and support," says Ras Ray of Vallejo, Calif. He has attended the festival every year since its incarnation. "Coming to this show brings me to the right sense."
Israel Vibration ended the first day of Reggaefest Monterey Bay with a heartfelt, high-energy, two-hour set, delivered to a steady bobbing crowd. Front man, Cecil “Skeleton” Spence even took a timeout to indulge in a monster, Cheech & Chong joint passed to him from the audience.
Following the performance, Lascelle “Wiss” Bulgin spoke intimately about music, influences and touring.
“Our music has been influenced by singing in church choir and experiencing different cultures and countries,” Wiss said. “Music is a reflection of things you already know; and good music is food for the soul.
“Sometimes touring is endless, but we remember that we like playing music for the people and we’ll continue to do it until it’s over,” Wiss said.
Visit the Monterey Bay Reggae Festival for a complete schedule of artists.
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