Finbarr Carter

Since landing back in Norfolk, Rebel Lion have worked hard to build up a thriving roots community through regular community events, radio shows, and music nights. During this time they have worked with a whole host of singers, bands and sound systems from all parts of the globe such as Iration Steppas, Roots Ting (UK Dub Cup Champion), I&I Oneness, Natty Frontline, Sister Rasheda, Roots Commandments (Germany), Caveman International (Jamaica), King Shiloh (Holland) and the legendary Lee 'Scratch' Perry. The conscious message of the music, the heavy bass and the sweet live vocals give Rebel Lion an unmistakable flavour. Roots reggae music to make you jump and skank to your hearts content. EXTRACTED FROM INTERVIEW WITH OUTLINE MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2004 Why Roots and when did you begin your sound system? Militant Youth Man, REBEL LION - Growing up in North London there was no way to avoid roots. The neighbours accross the road had such a killer stereo you couldn't choose not to listen to it. The first brother initiated was the eldest (Maka T) and he soon started pounding it within the house. It wasn't long before we had all been converted to orthodox roots heads. In 1992 Reality Sound was born and played in and around London alongside renowned sound systems as well as regular ventures on the free party scene. I made an exodus from London at the age of 16 and the other brothers soon followed. We linked up with an existing crew (Culture Vibes) and formed Rebel Lion in 1996. From that time onwards we have worked hard to build up a roots scene here through supplying records and organising regular music nights around the county. Our most recent addition to the crew has been the sweet sounds of Dandelion - vocalist supreme with nuff vibes. Q. Why has Roots become such a popular element of the Norfolk underground scene? A. Despite its very white population Norfolk has always had a roots reggae scene since the 70's and played host to many legends including The Wailers, Tappa Zukie, Eek a Mouse, Twinkle Brothers and Culture to name a few. Throughout the eighties and early nineties sound systems such as Danger Zone, Bassline Sounds and Flex International kept things moving with sessions at the Jackard and then the Regency. Since then things have continued to blossom - alongside Rebel and Foundation new sounds are establishing themselves such as Free King, Roots Odessy, U-natty and First Light. Q. Norwich has changed a huge deal in the last 5 years. Has this been good or bad for alternative music? A. I have been back in Norwich for just over ten years and I have seen a lot of change. The city is slowly becoming more culturally mixed which has to be good thing - not just for the music scene but for life in general. At the same time I have aslo witnessed the demise of all the independent music venues in Norwich and we are now just cursed with commercial crap on Prince of Wales Rd and Riverside. For those of us who want to put on our own nights it is now almost impossible to find a venue. Get out support local acts and promoters - look out for forthcoming sessions at Scottow Barn with Rebel Lion, Foundation and guest sound systems. Q. How do you feel the roots scene repels violence like that regularly seen on Prince Of Wales Road late on a Friday night. How could we convince the authorities of its potential? A. Roots offers an alternative to drink and drug fuelled nights out listening to repetitive beats. Its not about what you look like or trying to 'pull'. Ask any bouncer what nights have the least trouble and they will all say reggae. So why is it that the police and council work so hard against us? Q. What's your ethos? A. Togetherness. Email Rebel Lion