Mighty Joshua
Richmond, Virginia, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2012
Music
Press
Album Review: Mighty Joshua - Mighty Joshua
Like his biblical namesake, this Joshua lets us know, by way of the opening track on his first solo album (a song called "Mighty Joshua," just like the artist himself and the album itself), that he's intent on bringing down a wall or two. However, he's going for the whole of Babylon and not just Jericho, invoking plenty 'nuff scriptural locales and characters atop a nyabinghi-tinged arrangement that's a perfectly suitable kickoff for a rootsy CD like this. Mighty Joshua is a major figure on the reggae scene in Richmond, Virginia, having been a vocalist and percussionist for several of that city's reggae bands and a tireless promoter of the music. Singing-wise, he goes for a more understated approach than many, emphasizing the conscious clarity of the lyrics rather than trying to inject as much fire and brimstone as possible into the proceedings. And so it is that we get the no-nonsense point of songs like "Locks Of Oppression," "Catching Hell" (featuring a strong assist from reggae/blues man Corey Harris), "Them A Watching" and the straight-outta-yard "We Don't Trouble You," a song that combines seriousness and jauntiness in a way that might put you in mind of the Twinkle Brothers. A very impressive outing all around, and kudos to producer/keyboardist Chris "Peanut" Whitley, who helps craft a modern roots backdrop that accommodates Joshua's compelling style with sufficient niceness. -Tom Orr, Jammin Reggae Archives (niceup.com) - Tom Orr
Discography
Still working on that hot first release.
Photos
Bio
Independent Reggae Artist Mighty Joshua engages audiences by opening minds and activating bodies through song. His musical roots in African percussion led to experimenting with sound and rhythm. Soon after exposure to Djembe and Djun Djun drums they became a part of his playing repertoire which also includes the Didgeridoo. His soulful exploration in the evolution of sound creates an expression of reggae for the modern day.
Mighty Joshua plays in a multitude of arrangements including high energy live performances with support of his back-up band the Zion #5 and as an acoustic configuration known as Roots Covenant. As Virginia Reggae Ambassador (2015+2016) and Artist of the Year (2014, 2015, 2016) Mighty Joshua advocates for the genre and its culture with meaningful performances for the masses, from mountain top festivals to intimate club gigs, he invites listeners of all ages to experience the spirit of reggae.
Mighty Joshua’s self-titled debut solo album is a life inspired compilation that encourages reflection and empowerment for oneself, community, and beyond. The official “Mighty Joshua” video has aired on Virginia Currents, and his single "Full Circle" was a featured track on Relix Magazine's Compilation CD for the October/November 2014 issue distributed to subscribers and newsstands nationwide. He played percussion and supplied backing vocals for Corey Harris albums “Father Sun, Mother Earth” and “Fulton Hill Blues” and has opened for several internationally acclaimed reggae acts including Steel Pulse, Culture w/ Kenyatta Hill, the Meditations, the Itals, and Ziggy Marley.
Past projects include: Jah Revelations, Richmond Dub Collective, and Antero. When he’s not living the life of a professional musician, he enjoys integrating music for social awareness and celebrating the impact individuals make. Mighty Joshua is dedicated to making a difference by working closely with several non-profit organizations both locally and globally, including the Makindu Children's Program in Kenya.
#bemighty
Links
