In a unique fusion of roots reggae and international collaboration, Kumar, the former lead singer of GRAMMY-nominated Raging Fyah, has joined forces with Switzerland’s critically acclaimed band, The 18th Parallel, to release the highly anticipated album Tales of Reality. Produced by Fruits Records and Easy Star Records, this album is set to transport listeners into a world where the golden age of Jamaican reggae is reborn with a contemporary and inspiring sound.
Tales of Reality is more than just an album—it’s a testament to the power of music to bridge cultures, with the album taking shape over four years, from Kingston’s buzzing streets to the peaceful mountains of Geneva. Every track on the album is infused with Kumar’s soulful lyrics, effortlessly combined with the masterful arrangements of The 18th Parallel, a Swiss band that has worked with some of reggae’s greatest legends.
The partnership between Kumar and The 18th Parallel was forged through a series of fortunate encounters and shared love for reggae. As their journeys intertwined, this collaboration became inevitable. Their work together can be traced back to 2016 when Kumar, still riding high as Raging Fyah’s lead vocalist, invited the Swiss musicians to join him on stage at the iconic Wickie Wackie Festival in Jamaica. The bond grew stronger over the years, culminating in the creation of Tales of Reality.
“This album is a celebration of the roots, the stories, and the timeless messages embedded in reggae music. It’s about truth—our truth—delivered with the energy and soul that reggae fans all over the world connect with,” says Kumar.
A Story of Authenticity and Growth
The 12-track album takes listeners on a journey, delving deep into themes of redemption, love, and perseverance. Tracks like “World Wide Love” and “Salvation” radiate hope and resilience, while dubs like “Salvation Dub” and “World Wide Love Dub” reflect the deep grooves of reggae’s foundation. Kumar’s voice, effortlessly balancing strength and vulnerability, carries the emotional weight of these songs, while The 18th Parallel’s masterful musicianship ensures every note hits the heart.
Tales of Reality represents a coming-of-age for Kumar. Known for his introspective and spiritual lyrics, he once again challenges listeners to reflect on their realities, while offering a musical balm for the soul. With its blend of traditional reggae riddims and fresh, forward-thinking production, the album is a nod to the past, while firmly grounding itself in the present.
Produced by Antonin Chatelain, Léo Marin, and Mathias Liengme, the album was crafted with care, featuring dub legends Tippy I and JAH David of Zion I Kings, who added their signature touch to the mixing process. The album also boasts contributions from a number of talented musicians, both seasoned veterans and emerging talents, reinforcing the album’s rich, organic sound.
A Labor of Love
Recording sessions took place across several iconic studios, including Geneva’s Bridge Studio and Kingston’s Tabernacle Studio. Each step of the production process was a labor of love, with Kumar and The 18th Parallel embracing both their roots and their shared vision for the future of reggae music. The story of their collaboration is woven throughout the album, celebrating the shared journey, spirit, and unity that reggae inspires worldwide.
Album Tracklist:
Side A:
1. Salvation
2. Salvation Dub
3. World Wide Love
4. World Wide Love Dub
5. Clean Up Your House
6. Clean Up Your House Dub
Side B:
1. Things We Once Knew (Extended)
2. Never Give Up
3. Never Give Up Dub
4. Everything Takes Time
5. Everything Takes Time Dub
About Kumar
Kumar’s rise to prominence began in the hills of St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, where his love for music was nurtured through sound systems and church bands. After becoming the lead singer for Raging Fyah in 2010, he helped propel the band to international acclaim, eventually earning a GRAMMY nomination for their 2017 album Everlasting. Kumar’s solo career has taken him across the globe, sharing messages of strength, redemption, and universal love.
About The 18th Parallel
The 18th Parallel, a collective of Swiss musicians, is renowned for their authentic roots reggae sound. As the house band for Fruits Records, they’ve worked with iconic artists like Max Romeo, Lee “Scratch” Perry, and Big Youth. Their collaboration with Kumar on Tales of Reality marks yet another milestone in their career as one of Europe’s most in-demand reggae bands.
TALES OF REALITY is released & distributed by Easy Star Records, in New York under license from Fruits Records.
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