Ras Imru Asha – Nuclear Disarmament

Originally from Westmoreland, Jamaica, Ras Imru came to London as a teenager. It was in England that Rastafari and music became major forces in his life. His early singles were followed by a steady stream of deeply spiritual roots recordings, establishing a distinctive sound that’s remained true to his beliefs.

Now, Ras Imru Asha is back with Nuclear Disarmament, a powerful 10-track album that sounds deeply rooted in the tradition while still feeling very much alive. From the moment the needle drops, the deep basslines and heavy riddims pull you straight into the sound system experience. But there’s more here than heavyweight pressure. The album carries a clear and urgent message.

The musical backing is first class, with contributions from Black Steel, Hughie Issachar, Barry Dread, Cyrus Richards, Rim Bim, Steven Wright, Ras Abana, and Mafia & Fluxy. Together, they give the album the organic feel and musical depth that have long been associated with the best UK roots productions.

The title track opens the album in uncompromising fashion. A hypnotic steppers riddim provides the perfect foundation for Ras Imru’s call for peace and the dismantling of the ruling class’ weapons of destruction. His commanding delivery immediately sets the mood. The four tracks that follow are equally strong. Shining Star brings a more uplifting feel, helped by some beautiful backing vocals, while the anthemic Firey Furnace is the clear killer piece on the A-side. It’s the kind of roots tune that demands to be played loud. And don’t overlook Paradise To Hell. Its lighter musical feel contrasts nicely with a serious message about where the world is heading.

The B-side picks up naturally with Sanctions, which continues the thought-provoking mood. Love Conquers draws directly on Rastafarian beliefs, while Treason keeps the pressure on. Then comes Marshall Revive, a new version of Ras Imru’s 1982 killer. Originally produced by Jah Shaka and backed by the Shaka Ridim Section, it was among the early releases on the Jah Shaka label. This new version is followed by a superb dub, with the horns adding another dimension to the mix. That’s the only dub included on the vinyl album. On the digital release, however, each vocal track is followed by its corresponding dub version.

Nuclear Disarmament is a strong addition to the UK roots reggae catalogue. Ras Imru Asha shows that uncompromising conscious reggae still has a place in today’s reggae culture. The production feels organic, the riddims carry serious weight, and the message remains as relevant as ever.

This is roots reggae with purpose. It shakes the speakers, but it also gives you something to think about.