New Kingston – Wedgewood Rooms 2017
It was a family affair at the Wedgewood Rooms, Portsmouth as New Kingston took to stage on tour with the Skints. Brothers Courtney Jr, Tahir and Stephen were joined by father Courtney Snr on bass, as the boys’ mother eagerly awaited fans by the merchandise stand.
Now on their 4th studio album, the reggae act from Brooklyn USA have become the perfect warm up for many high energy bands. Having toured the UK last year supporting the Easy Star All Stars (known for their alternative take on Radiohead and Pink Floyd covers) New Kingston are also firm favourites on the Easy Star’s own label.
New Kingston – Courtney Snr
With it all being about feel good music, good vibes and smiling faces, it would be hard to describe the Portsmouth gig as anything else. Travelling to the UK from America must surely take its toll on even the most seasoned of musicians, but these guys look so happy. I can’t imagine there’s time for a frown, let alone a family feud.
The happiness also shines through when it comes to recreating their music live. The siblings can’t stop grinning and dad is clearly in the zone too, proudly standing alongside his boys. They were loads tighter than having seen them before too and with their natural charm rubbing off on the audience, sure enough New Kingston appeared to be a hit all round.
New Kingston Wedgewood Rooms Portsmouth
On record they may not have the same impact as some of the genres bigger names, but there is however a soulfulness to the band’s music. While the nights headliners would be more of a musical fusion, New Kingston will appeal to fans of mainstream reggae such as latter day Aswad or classic Bob Marley.
All the brothers took it in turns to sing, with drummer Courtney Jr coming to the front of stage as he introduced the band and final song “Kingston Fyre”. It’s another tune with the aim to spread strength and positivity, go ahead and give it a play below. If however you really want to enjoy New Kingston at their best, then catch them live, for it was a pleasure to see them again.
New Kingston, supporting the Skints
Photo’s courtesy of Sam Taylor @ Loud Noises Mag on behalf of Mr Teeth Reviews.
New Kingston – “Come from Far” Out Now
