Rebelation is one of those bands that come across as being complete perfectionists. Heavily layered and intricately constructed, the Norfolk band forgoes any need to lather songs with big hooks or dumbed-down expression, instead electing to perform deep-grooved reggae in a much more traditional manner befitting of its own wants and needs. Sometimes this means the band is seen as inaccessible or a little too samey, but after roughly 15 years they clearly must be doing something right.
The first surprising thing about ‘The Berlin Session’ is that it was recorded in just two days slap bang in the middle of a European tour. For a band that has such developed arrangements that’s quite the achievement. It’s true that this five-tracker doesn’t quite match the impressiveness of previous release, ‘State of the Union’, but under such limited conditions it definitely has appeal. Surprise number two is that with regular vocalist Sharon having left the band, female vocals are taken up by Ruby Taylor (of labelmates, Ettin) who manages to absolutely shine through on this release, and with bare minimal practice.
The five tracks are split odd/even between female/male vocals. The even tracks (male vox) have more than a hint of Pama International to them, full of chilled grooves. Relaxed isn’t even the word. The odd tracks (female vox) have a little more soul and a little more swing to them, again steady joints that play with a rootsy feel. “Be Sure”, the E.P. closer, stands out, sauntering along engrossed in its own charming spirit. All of it is delivered with meticulous and deliberate care, in true Rebelation tradition. Upstrokes are delivered rocksteady style; brass is prominent but not overpowering; additional percussion and melodicas are playful but precise.
The record drops marks because it’s not up to the standard of previous releases, although it’s hard to fault the band due to the restrictions involved. Two days isn’t enough to put together interesting instrumental numbers (“High Noon” on the previous record is a wonder) or really sharpen each individual song. Essentially, ‘The Berlin Session’ is exactly that. A session. It’s a stop-gap release before the band heads back into the studio to record a long-player later this year. It is limited, not perfected but definitely heralds good things to come.
Alex