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Mainstream reggae has never been more popular, thanks to artists like Bob Marley, Sean Paul, and Matisyahu.
Over a decade before Matisyahu introduced the world to his unique brand of Hasidic Reggae, Christafari was making waves with their original blend of Gospel Reggae. Through the years, these trailblazers have been crafting one of the most impressive catalogues in Christian music. With over 10 full-length releases and involvement in countless compilations, it's no wonder that Christafari's cumulative album sales have reached over 400,000 units to date. In the fall of 2006, bandleader and founder Mark Mohr embarked on the next chapter of Christafari's career, creating their rootsiest effort to date with the upcoming CD, “To The Foundation.” Recorded with all live instruments, plenty of horns and percussion and various guest vocalists (a veritable who's who of the Gospel Reggae arena), the album moves from roots reggae to lover's rock to dancehall and back again. Lyrically, this project is jam-packed with the unwavering Word of God. Christafari continues to display their dedication to utilizing sound doctrine and a host of Biblical references on every single song - ensuring that the Gospel is clearly proclaimed without compromise. With this album Christafari is boldly marching forward, continuing to pioneer a blossoming genre while shaping the future of Christian music. "I don't strive to make a hit, but a classic," says Mohr. "When in the studio, I think 'How will this sound ten or twenty years from now?' I want to record music that will endure for decades so that the message of Jesus Christ will continue to bear fruit for generations to come." Christafari is far more than a band. Led by Mohr, an ordained minister, they are an evangelistic, counter-cultural drug aversion ministry, using reggae music and the spoken word to reach a wayward generation. Mohr clearly sums up the purpose of Christafari's new album: "With the release of “To The Foundation,” it is our desire to see listeners build their lives on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ. We want them to be firmly planted in His teachings and moving forward in His Spirit." But there's no denying the impact that Christafari has had on the music industry. The award-winning group's previous three studio albums have all reached the Top 10 on Billboard's Top Reggae Albums Chart. The group has performed in 35 countries and toured with such artists as Wayne Wonder, dcTalk and World Heavyweight Boxing Champion Evander Holyfield. Christafari has been featured on the Reggae Sunsplash Tour and the Bob Marley Day Tour, as well as high profile appearances at the 1996 Olympic Games (Atlanta), 2002 Winter Olympics (Salt Lake City), President Clinton’s Inaugural Ball in Washington DC (with Jewel), and more. The debut single "Freedom Step" can be heard online at www.GospelReggae.com , as well as an exclusive interview with Mark Mohr. A new song and exclusive interview will be posted each week until the album's release. For the latest information on Christafari, please visit the newly redesigned official website at www.Christafari.com.
The copyright of the article Christafari Update in Christian Music is owned by Kevan Breitinger. Permission to republish Christafari Update in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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