Perhaps the lack of support for domestic reggae acts is what keeps these guys from hitting the Billboards top ten, because amid Austin's reggae bands none are as predestined for success as Tribal Nation. As their new CD, Our Thing, eloquently demonstrates, the band is ready to launch reggae into uncharted territory while setting a new standard for their contemporaries. Their tight harmonies pay an excellent tribute to the classic vocal trios from the early roots and rock steady ears. Rather than limiting themselves to one category of music, they successfully take to roots of reggae and intimately add elements of R&B and rap.

The song writing of the band could fall into many different categories, yet the band's unwavering dedication to creating some of modern day's hardest reggae grooves is not only respectable but also very inspiring. In particular, the CD contains some beautiful love songs, such as "Give me your love," "She is in My Dreams," and "We've all been hurt in love," which captivate the listener by locking into a solid rhythm that is sure to have you "gettin' ya groove on." Another highlight of the release is the humorous cut "Club Manager," as well as "Pistolman" which addresses a more serious aspect. "Girls, girls, girls" give an idea of the party atmosphere which is usually present at the band's live performances, while "Gather round" and "See the light" feed the need for spiritual uplifting roots music. For all the rap fans, "Back in the days" is guaranteed to have you "bobbin' ya head." Perhaps this fine collection of songs by these well accomplished musicians will be a stepping stone to the big leagues, where they belong.

The music remains soulful throughout by the remarkable beauty and finesse of Melvin Wilburn's tenor and soprano saxophone artistry. Live horns seem to be a vanishing art these days, yet Melvin shows no sign of allowing any keyboard player to deprive him of the authentic expression and emotion that only a live wind instrument can produce. The multi-talented Michael Franklin, who is certainly no stranger to the Austin music scene, deserves not only extra credit for his keyboard, vocal, and guitar work, but also a few brownie points for his unique song writing talents. The highly respected bassman Jay Williams needs no introduction. While being a pillar for the reggae scene in Texas, he has no difficulty serving up a "phat" foundation of bass, or fronting the band with one of his many original numbers. For the "live jungle music pioneer" Duane Jackson, our sophisticated and higher limits of musical expression are only standard rudiments. Rarely is such raw, yet well polished talent for live performance, and studio perfection found.

Impeccable arrangements and unsurpassed sweet vocal harmonies of this caliber are extremely rare, yet Tribal Nation effortlessly pushes their solid brand of reggae music to higher and inspiring heights. Tribal Nation certainly possesses the musical ability and positive vibes to deeply impress each and every reggae fan.