A popular figure in Pacific reggae, Anslom “Anslom” Nakikus is eager to find a new audience beyond that region. To help him achieve that, the singer from Papua New Guinea brought in some star power for his latest album.

‘One Love’ is the title of the 11-song set which is scheduled for release in May by Basslinepng and Kingmaker/Universal. It hears Anslom collaborating with veteran toaster Chaka Demus and Quino, lead singer for Big Mountain.

Significantly, five of its songs are produced by Wailers drummer Aston Barrett Jr., son of Wailers legend Aston “Familyman” Barrett. One of them is the mellow ‘August Moon’, a potential hit single.

Anslom, who has released four albums, brought in a more cosmopolitan team for ‘One Love’.

“I wanted my next album to be different, songs with international legends. Quino was one of them and this wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Fyah Wyah, my American manager. We also have Chaka Demus and The Wailers. I am so grateful, with these collaborations that makes the album unqiue and positioned for great things ahead,” he said.

‘One Love’ is Anslom’s first album in five years, his previous effort being ‘Love me Again’. He is part of the phalanx of reggae acts who have emerged throughout the Pacific Rim in the past 20 years.

Most of those acts are based in Hawaii with J Boog, a California-born Samoan, arguably the most successful. He has made a name in mainland America by regular touring and also visited Jamaica where he recorded with Jamaican musicians.

Anslom grew up listening to influential Jamaican artistes led by Bob Marley. Chaka Demus, best known for his tandem with singer Pliers, is also one of his favourite acts.

However, Anslom’s biggest hero is not from the home of reggae.

“Lucky Dube (from South Africa) has a great influence in my life together with Bob Marley, their stories similar to mine. Everyone has their own inspiration and stories to tell, I grew up in the village, influenced by mother who is a great fan of Lucky Dube. She plays Lucky Dube songs which have inspired me to love reggae with his songs that talks about realities of life,” he said.

(Photo contributed)