Taj Weekes and Adowa lay down a Caribbean flair

By Lauryn Stallings

Taj Weekes and Adowa brought something different to Roots ‘N’ Blues ‘N’ BBQ FestivalSaturday evening. Afro-folk style blended with rock to create a sound that surpassed the bounds of reggae. The smooth, sweet harmony of Adowa’s Valerie Kelley and four-piece acoustic band complement Weekes’ deep, accented drawl as he sings about social issues and humanitarianism.

Peace Park was filled with swaying bodies enjoying the mellow groove created by the guitars, keyboard and drum kit. Some danced to the buttery melodies while others simply felt the music and bobbed their heads. Weekes generated audience participation with “Little Fire” and the inspirational number “We Stand.” The audience sang along in support of Weekes’ charity, They Often Cry Outreach.

Weekes’ melancholy lyrics were anything but bleak, though he sings about distressed love (“Blue”) and dissatisfaction (“Life”). Taj Weekes and Adowa without question provided the most relaxed atmosphere of the festival. The honeyed sound provided by the sextet was able to keep the audience intrigued despite the significant drop in temperature.

Weekes’ poetic lyrics and leisurely approach created beautiful imagery of sparse and agony filled West Indian villages. His message filled the venue and captivated the audience throughout the set. Soulful instrumental breaks emphasized the reason Taj Weekes and Adowa was a great addition to the festival.