Truths and Rights

Truths and Rights were among Toronto’s first home-grown reggae bands of the ’70s. Guitarist Mojah and bassist Gary Lowe are somewhat better known as the dub factor behind Big Sugar, but this is them in their proper element. Truths and Rights are as polished and professional a band with two very capable lead vocalists: Mojah and Friendlyness. Mojah has a more languid, deeper tone and works well with reflective songs like "When the Sun Goes Down.” Friendliness is a fine singer, but an even better deejay, coming off like a less whiny Anthony B. The contrast works well over the generally urgent rhythms. Some tunes, such as the opener "Movin’ Up,” are so fast-paced as to seem rushed. Nonetheless, the band’s clean grooves and deep mix by one of Canada’s best dub producers, Jeffrey Holdip, recalls Steel Pulse’s early days with a greater Jamaican influence. This is a band to see live; they are a well oiled reggae machine who thrive on getting a crowd moving, which more than comes across on Live Up.