College Campus review Canada Oct 2008
David Kirton's latest album, Time for Change will embrace a new generation ready for new reggae anthems.
He has busted out of the box with this, his third album, by blending elements of reggae, soul, rock and pop into a contemporary yet natural sound, which he then delivers with his exotically smooth, soul dipped voice.
Each song on the album can stand on its own merit. Kirton has written songs with intelligent and grabbing lyrics that listeners can relate to on many levels. He then wraps them in some serious booty-shakin' rhythms, and a shimmy of urban flavor that would be at home in any dance club. Throughout, David still stays true to the deep roots of reggae. He pays respect to tradition, giving the music stability, but he is not tethered by it, allowing him to be visionary in the direction he takes his music.
The tracks are driven by messages that are universal and relevant. "Sugar" is a sticky song that will have you singing along on the first chorus and continue long after it finishes. While at the same time he shines a light on the history of the sugar trade and the backs that bore it. It may very well break you of your sugar habit.
"Camouflage" is a jewel of a song. Not so much anti-war as it is pro-peace, it delves into the changing landscape of war and people's perceptions of it. This song could become an anthem of a new generation. It'll have you dancing in your cammie's and digging for your peace emblems.
The song "Free to Fly" is sung with such sincerity that it truly resonates within you. Freedom, no matter what kind, is precious.
David Kirton has shared his soul with us on Time For Change - he could not have done it any other way. Listen to the music. Remember the name. There is something legendary brewing here.
By Shelley Gummeson
Oct 21, 2008
College Campus review Canada Oct 2008
David Kirton's latest album, Time for Change will embrace a new generation ready for new reggae anthems.
He has busted out of the box with this, his third album, by blending elements of reggae, soul, rock and pop into a contemporary yet natural sound, which he then delivers with his exotically smooth, soul dipped voice.
Each song on the album can stand on its own merit. Kirton has written songs with intelligent and grabbing lyrics that listeners can relate to on many levels. He then wraps them in some serious booty-shakin' rhythms, and a shimmy of urban flavor that would be at home in any dance club. Throughout, David still stays true to the deep roots of reggae. He pays respect to tradition, giving the music stability, but he is not tethered by it, allowing him to be visionary in the direction he takes his music.
The tracks are driven by messages that are universal and relevant. "Sugar" is a sticky song that will have you singing along on the first chorus and continue long after it finishes. While at the same time he shines a light on the history of the sugar trade and the backs that bore it. It may very well break you of your sugar habit.
"Camouflage" is a jewel of a song. Not so much anti-war as it is pro-peace, it delves into the changing landscape of war and people's perceptions of it. This song could become an anthem of a new generation. It'll have you dancing in your cammie's and digging for your peace emblems.
The song "Free to Fly" is sung with such sincerity that it truly resonates within you. Freedom, no matter what kind, is precious.
David Kirton has shared his soul with us on Time For Change - he could not have done it any other way. Listen to the music. Remember the name. There is something legendary brewing here.
By Shelley Gummeson
Oct 21, 2008
College Campus review Canada Oct 2008
David Kirton's latest album, Time for Change will embrace a new generation ready for new reggae anthems.
He has busted out of the box with this, his third album, by blending elements of reggae, soul, rock and pop into a contemporary yet natural sound, which he then delivers with his exotically smooth, soul dipped voice.
Each song on the album can stand on its own merit. Kirton has written songs with intelligent and grabbing lyrics that listeners can relate to on many levels. He then wraps them in some serious booty-shakin' rhythms, and a shimmy of urban flavor that would be at home in any dance club. Throughout, David still stays true to the deep roots of reggae. He pays respect to tradition, giving the music stability, but he is not tethered by it, allowing him to be visionary in the direction he takes his music.
The tracks are driven by messages that are universal and relevant. "Sugar" is a sticky song that will have you singing along on the first chorus and continue long after it finishes. While at the same time he shines a light on the history of the sugar trade and the backs that bore it. It may very well break you of your sugar habit.
"Camouflage" is a jewel of a song. Not so much anti-war as it is pro-peace, it delves into the changing landscape of war and people's perceptions of it. This song could become an anthem of a new generation. It'll have you dancing in your cammie's and digging for your peace emblems.
The song "Free to Fly" is sung with such sincerity that it truly resonates within you. Freedom, no matter what kind, is precious.
David Kirton has shared his soul with us on Time For Change - he could not have done it any other way. Listen to the music. Remember the name. There is something legendary brewing here.
By Shelley Gummeson
Oct 21, 2008
College Campus review Canada Oct 2008
David Kirton's latest album, Time for Change will embrace a new generation ready for new reggae anthems.
He has busted out of the box with this, his third album, by blending elements of reggae, soul, rock and pop into a contemporary yet natural sound, which he then delivers with his exotically smooth, soul dipped voice.
Each song on the album can stand on its own merit. Kirton has written songs with intelligent and grabbing lyrics that listeners can relate to on many levels. He then wraps them in some serious booty-shakin' rhythms, and a shimmy of urban flavor that would be at home in any dance club. Throughout, David still stays true to the deep roots of reggae. He pays respect to tradition, giving the music stability, but he is not tethered by it, allowing him to be visionary in the direction he takes his music.
The tracks are driven by messages that are universal and relevant. "Sugar" is a sticky song that will have you singing along on the first chorus and continue long after it finishes. While at the same time he shines a light on the history of the sugar trade and the backs that bore it. It may very well break you of your sugar habit.
"Camouflage" is a jewel of a song. Not so much anti-war as it is pro-peace, it delves into the changing landscape of war and people's perceptions of it. This song could become an anthem of a new generation. It'll have you dancing in your cammie's and digging for your peace emblems.
The song "Free to Fly" is sung with such sincerity that it truly resonates within you. Freedom, no matter what kind, is precious.
David Kirton has shared his soul with us on Time For Change - he could not have done it any other way. Listen to the music. Remember the name. There is something legendary brewing here.
By Shelley Gummeson
Oct 21, 2008
College Campus review Canada Oct 2008
David Kirton's latest album, Time for Change will embrace a new generation ready for new reggae anthems.
He has busted out of the box with this, his third album, by blending elements of reggae, soul, rock and pop into a contemporary yet natural sound, which he then delivers with his exotically smooth, soul dipped voice.
Each song on the album can stand on its own merit. Kirton has written songs with intelligent and grabbing lyrics that listeners can relate to on many levels. He then wraps them in some serious booty-shakin' rhythms, and a shimmy of urban flavor that would be at home in any dance club. Throughout, David still stays true to the deep roots of reggae. He pays respect to tradition, giving the music stability, but he is not tethered by it, allowing him to be visionary in the direction he takes his music.
The tracks are driven by messages that are universal and relevant. "Sugar" is a sticky song that will have you singing along on the first chorus and continue long after it finishes. While at the same time he shines a light on the history of the sugar trade and the backs that bore it. It may very well break you of your sugar habit.
"Camouflage" is a jewel of a song. Not so much anti-war as it is pro-peace, it delves into the changing landscape of war and people's perceptions of it. This song could become an anthem of a new generation. It'll have you dancing in your cammie's and digging for your peace emblems.
The song "Free to Fly" is sung with such sincerity that it truly resonates within you. Freedom, no matter what kind, is precious.
David Kirton has shared his soul with us on Time For Change - he could not have done it any other way. Listen to the music. Remember the name. There is something legendary brewing here.
By Shelley Gummeson
Oct 21, 2008
David Kirton: Much more than Reggae and dreadlocks
There's a surge of music coming from the Southern Caribbean that is
outside of the typical reggae box. No longer is the coveted Caribbean
sound solely Jamaican but a hybrid of cultures and influences. We are
witnessing an emergence of fresh, organic sounds and artists that have
retained an essence of individuality while still deriving from common
elements.
Barbados seems to have taken the lead with Grammy winner Rihanna,
Atlantic Records artist Rupee (Tempted to Touch), Alison Hinds (Roll
it Gal) and now singer songwriter David Kirton (Time for Change).
These artists have broken the glass ceiling set by Jamaicans and bring
with them unique sounds, history, presentations and messages.
Don't let his long golden dreadlocks fool you, David Kirton's sound
and aura is far from a 'typical' reggae artist. His music is a unique
hybrid of rock - pop and reggae that moves past the reverent Caribbean
rhythms of the past and on to the airwaves, dance floors and digital
devices of future. It sits comfortably in play lists surrounded by
Jack Johnson, Nora Jones, Sting, Bob Marley, Seal and Ben Harper.
Kirton's fans are not looking for Prison stories, hate messages or
graphic sex songs to download on their ipod. His music touches the
heart, head and feet, making you feel, think and dance.
Courted in the past by numerous major US labels Kirton chose to be
part of the new generation of artists who embraced the modern music
business model by owning his record label and publishing house.
Developing his music with producers, producing music videos and
promotional material, consistent touring and developing a fan base
with out the backing of a big label are all part of his journey. Far
from sounding or looking like a low budget project Kirton and his team
have been able to pull together an award winning album, three top
quality music videos and a Barrack Obama Time for Change Music video
remix that rivals the quality and vision of any high budget project
done today. His label Bird's Eye Music has distribution with Universal
Music for Canada, Right Recordings Nova / Pinnacle for the UK and The Orchard for digital.
One of Kirton's strengths is breaking barriers and creating links
between art, screen and music. His music and lyrics seems to be
attracting well known creative persons and it is not uncommon to have
actor Gary Dourdan (CSI), World champion surfer Kelly Slater (when he
is in Barbados hiding out), Barbados's super models or a celebrated
artist/ painter either on stage, playing guitar, singing or in a music
video. In fact Dourdan, who looks like he could be Kirton's brother
not only cameos in his music video but also drops a poetry rap on the
Time for Change album. The big names surrounding this charismatic
Independent songwriter are not only in front of the camera and mic but
behind as well. Kirton scored big time by securing cinematographer /
director Tom Krueger for his debut video 'Time for Change'. Kruger is
a multiple Pulitzer and Sundance award winner who also headed the film
crew for the 'U2 Live in 3D' as well as recent Bruce Springsteen, U2
and Bob Dylan music videos.
The press and industry discovered Kirton long before his mainstream
bid. His press kit is one accolade after another, he was called 'best
new act at Midem' by AP, played SXSW, won three Barbados Music Awards
in 08 including song, video and Reggae artist of the year, a Barbados
Cornerstone recipient, performed on Jay Leno's The Tonight Show, Semi
Finalist ISC and was the first singer to ever perform at The RHS
Chelsea Flower Show in London launching the Royal season for 2008 and the World Travel Market at London's Excel plus numerous live BBC interviews.
David Kirton's music has forced us to reevaluate our stereotypes in
regards to music and artists from the Caribbean. With his original,
organic sound and energy he is moving forward in the main arena and
will remind us to never judge an artist by his dreadlocks again
David Kirton: Much more than Reggae and dreadlocks
There's a surge of music coming from the Southern Caribbean that is
outside of the typical reggae box. No longer is the coveted Caribbean
sound solely Jamaican but a hybrid of cultures and influences. We are
witnessing an emergence of fresh, organic sounds and artists that have
retained an essence of individuality while still deriving from common
elements.
Barbados seems to have taken the lead with Grammy winner Rihanna,
Atlantic Records artist Rupee (Tempted to Touch), Alison Hinds (Roll
it Gal) and now singer songwriter David Kirton (Time for Change).
These artists have broken the glass ceiling set by Jamaicans and bring
with them unique sounds, history, presentations and messages.
Don't let his long golden dreadlocks fool you, David Kirton's sound
and aura is far from a 'typical' reggae artist. His music is a unique
hybrid of rock - pop and reggae that moves past the reverent Caribbean
rhythms of the past and on to the airwaves, dance floors and digital
devices of future. It sits comfortably in play lists surrounded by
Jack Johnson, Nora Jones, Sting, Bob Marley, Seal and Ben Harper.
Kirton's fans are not looking for Prison stories, hate messages or
graphic sex songs to download on their ipod. His music touches the
heart, head and feet, making you feel, think and dance.
Courted in the past by numerous major US labels Kirton chose to be
part of the new generation of artists who embraced the modern music
business model by owning his record label and publishing house.
Developing his music with producers, producing music videos and
promotional material, consistent touring and developing a fan base
with out the backing of a big label are all part of his journey. Far
from sounding or looking like a low budget project Kirton and his team
have been able to pull together an award winning album, three top
quality music videos and a Barrack Obama Time for Change Music video
remix that rivals the quality and vision of any high budget project
done today. His label Bird's Eye Music has distribution with Universal
Music for Canada, Right Recordings Nova / Pinnacle for the UK and The Orchard for digital.
One of Kirton's strengths is breaking barriers and creating links
between art, screen and music. His music and lyrics seems to be
attracting well known creative persons and it is not uncommon to have
actor Gary Dourdan (CSI), World champion surfer Kelly Slater (when he
is in Barbados hiding out), Barbados's super models or a celebrated
artist/ painter either on stage, playing guitar, singing or in a music
video. In fact Dourdan, who looks like he could be Kirton's brother
not only cameos in his music video but also drops a poetry rap on the
Time for Change album. The big names surrounding this charismatic
Independent songwriter are not only in front of the camera and mic but
behind as well. Kirton scored big time by securing cinematographer /
director Tom Krueger for his debut video 'Time for Change'. Kruger is
a multiple Pulitzer and Sundance award winner who also headed the film
crew for the 'U2 Live in 3D' as well as recent Bruce Springsteen, U2
and Bob Dylan music videos.
The press and industry discovered Kirton long before his mainstream
bid. His press kit is one accolade after another, he was called 'best
new act at Midem' by AP, played SXSW, won three Barbados Music Awards
in 08 including song, video and Reggae artist of the year, a Barbados
Cornerstone recipient, performed on Jay Leno's The Tonight Show, Semi
Finalist ISC and was the first singer to ever perform at The RHS
Chelsea Flower Show in London launching the Royal season for 2008 and the World Travel Market at London's Excel plus numerous live BBC interviews.
David Kirton's music has forced us to reevaluate our stereotypes in
regards to music and artists from the Caribbean. With his original,
organic sound and energy he is moving forward in the main arena and
will remind us to never judge an artist by his dreadlocks again
David Kirton: Much more than Reggae and dreadlocks
There's a surge of music coming from the Southern Caribbean that is
outside of the typical reggae box. No longer is the coveted Caribbean
sound solely Jamaican but a hybrid of cultures and influences. We are
witnessing an emergence of fresh, organic sounds and artists that have
retained an essence of individuality while still deriving from common
elements.
Barbados seems to have taken the lead with Grammy winner Rihanna,
Atlantic Records artist Rupee (Tempted to Touch), Alison Hinds (Roll
it Gal) and now singer songwriter David Kirton (Time for Change).
These artists have broken the glass ceiling set by Jamaicans and bring
with them unique sounds, history, presentations and messages.
Don't let his long golden dreadlocks fool you, David Kirton's sound
and aura is far from a 'typical' reggae artist. His music is a unique
hybrid of rock - pop and reggae that moves past the reverent Caribbean
rhythms of the past and on to the airwaves, dance floors and digital
devices of future. It sits comfortably in play lists surrounded by
Jack Johnson, Nora Jones, Sting, Bob Marley, Seal and Ben Harper.
Kirton's fans are not looking for Prison stories, hate messages or
graphic sex songs to download on their ipod. His music touches the
heart, head and feet, making you feel, think and dance.
Courted in the past by numerous major US labels Kirton chose to be
part of the new generation of artists who embraced the modern music
business model by owning his record label and publishing house.
Developing his music with producers, producing music videos and
promotional material, consistent touring and developing a fan base
with out the backing of a big label are all part of his journey. Far
from sounding or looking like a low budget project Kirton and his team
have been able to pull together an award winning album, three top
quality music videos and a Barrack Obama Time for Change Music video
remix that rivals the quality and vision of any high budget project
done today. His label Bird's Eye Music has distribution with Universal
Music for Canada, Right Recordings Nova / Pinnacle for the UK and The Orchard for digital.
One of Kirton's strengths is breaking barriers and creating links
between art, screen and music. His music and lyrics seems to be
attracting well known creative persons and it is not uncommon to have
actor Gary Dourdan (CSI), World champion surfer Kelly Slater (when he
is in Barbados hiding out), Barbados's super models or a celebrated
artist/ painter either on stage, playing guitar, singing or in a music
video. In fact Dourdan, who looks like he could be Kirton's brother
not only cameos in his music video but also drops a poetry rap on the
Time for Change album. The big names surrounding this charismatic
Independent songwriter are not only in front of the camera and mic but
behind as well. Kirton scored big time by securing cinematographer /
director Tom Krueger for his debut video 'Time for Change'. Kruger is
a multiple Pulitzer and Sundance award winner who also headed the film
crew for the 'U2 Live in 3D' as well as recent Bruce Springsteen, U2
and Bob Dylan music videos.
The press and industry discovered Kirton long before his mainstream
bid. His press kit is one accolade after another, he was called 'best
new act at Midem' by AP, played SXSW, won three Barbados Music Awards
in 08 including song, video and Reggae artist of the year, a Barbados
Cornerstone recipient, performed on Jay Leno's The Tonight Show, Semi
Finalist ISC and was the first singer to ever perform at The RHS
Chelsea Flower Show in London launching the Royal season for 2008 and the World Travel Market at London's Excel plus numerous live BBC interviews.
David Kirton's music has forced us to reevaluate our stereotypes in
regards to music and artists from the Caribbean. With his original,
organic sound and energy he is moving forward in the main arena and
will remind us to never judge an artist by his dreadlocks again
David Kirton: Much more than Reggae and dreadlocks
There's a surge of music coming from the Southern Caribbean that is
outside of the typical reggae box. No longer is the coveted Caribbean
sound solely Jamaican but a hybrid of cultures and influences. We are
witnessing an emergence of fresh, organic sounds and artists that have
retained an essence of individuality while still deriving from common
elements.
Barbados seems to have taken the lead with Grammy winner Rihanna,
Atlantic Records artist Rupee (Tempted to Touch), Alison Hinds (Roll
it Gal) and now singer songwriter David Kirton (Time for Change).
These artists have broken the glass ceiling set by Jamaicans and bring
with them unique sounds, history, presentations and messages.
Don't let his long golden dreadlocks fool you, David Kirton's sound
and aura is far from a 'typical' reggae artist. His music is a unique
hybrid of rock - pop and reggae that moves past the reverent Caribbean
rhythms of the past and on to the airwaves, dance floors and digital
devices of future. It sits comfortably in play lists surrounded by
Jack Johnson, Nora Jones, Sting, Bob Marley, Seal and Ben Harper.
Kirton's fans are not looking for Prison stories, hate messages or
graphic sex songs to download on their ipod. His music touches the
heart, head and feet, making you feel, think and dance.
Courted in the past by numerous major US labels Kirton chose to be
part of the new generation of artists who embraced the modern music
business model by owning his record label and publishing house.
Developing his music with producers, producing music videos and
promotional material, consistent touring and developing a fan base
with out the backing of a big label are all part of his journey. Far
from sounding or looking like a low budget project Kirton and his team
have been able to pull together an award winning album, three top
quality music videos and a Barrack Obama Time for Change Music video
remix that rivals the quality and vision of any high budget project
done today. His label Bird's Eye Music has distribution with Universal
Music for Canada, Right Recordings Nova / Pinnacle for the UK and The Orchard for digital.
One of Kirton's strengths is breaking barriers and creating links
between art, screen and music. His music and lyrics seems to be
attracting well known creative persons and it is not uncommon to have
actor Gary Dourdan (CSI), World champion surfer Kelly Slater (when he
is in Barbados hiding out), Barbados's super models or a celebrated
artist/ painter either on stage, playing guitar, singing or in a music
video. In fact Dourdan, who looks like he could be Kirton's brother
not only cameos in his music video but also drops a poetry rap on the
Time for Change album. The big names surrounding this charismatic
Independent songwriter are not only in front of the camera and mic but
behind as well. Kirton scored big time by securing cinematographer /
director Tom Krueger for his debut video 'Time for Change'. Kruger is
a multiple Pulitzer and Sundance award winner who also headed the film
crew for the 'U2 Live in 3D' as well as recent Bruce Springsteen, U2
and Bob Dylan music videos.
The press and industry discovered Kirton long before his mainstream
bid. His press kit is one accolade after another, he was called 'best
new act at Midem' by AP, played SXSW, won three Barbados Music Awards
in 08 including song, video and Reggae artist of the year, a Barbados
Cornerstone recipient, performed on Jay Leno's The Tonight Show, Semi
Finalist ISC and was the first singer to ever perform at The RHS
Chelsea Flower Show in London launching the Royal season for 2008 and the World Travel Market at London's Excel plus numerous live BBC interviews.
David Kirton's music has forced us to reevaluate our stereotypes in
regards to music and artists from the Caribbean. With his original,
organic sound and energy he is moving forward in the main arena and
will remind us to never judge an artist by his dreadlocks again