Marvin Sparks

So yeah, I said I'd give you second date review in the first night review post . I realised reaching so early the previous night was a mistake, so went at 1am, fully sleeped up after a long nap. Smartest move possible. I wanted to see Exco Levi and Cali P but so it go more time. If the first sight was about intriguing performances, second night was about the artists I'm a fan of but UK reggae promoters don't see fit to bring them over. It's better seeing them in their natural habitat anyway.

I've always wanted to go to Rebel Salute. For those who don't know, Rebel Salute is an event created by roots artist Tony Rebel. The now two-night (and morning) event is held in Ocho Rios since moving from St Elizabeth where it moved from about two years ago. This year was the 22nd staging of the event. [Photo credit: Rebel Salute website] Rebel Salute is a straight conscious music event. Even when they've booked Lady Saw, Bounty Killer and Mavado, all had to perform strictly clean and conscious material to fit the movement (yes, they do have enough suitable songs). No alcohol or meat is served - alcohol is confiscated at the gate. Drugs aren't allowed either. Herbs are cool though. Strangely enough, Red Bull are a big sponsor. Wouldn't have said they fit the ital description, but hey, so it go. Food stalls sell fresh fruit and pescetarian-friendly food.