ORANGE SKY – Dat Iz Voodoo

Orange Sky is a band that has an innovative and refreshing sound. They come from Port-of-Spain, Trinidad. It’s not every day that you hear of a Metal band from that neck of the woods, but once again, it just goes to show that the power of Metal is truly far reaching. If you can believe it, these guys are a Reggae-Metal band! Don’t let the Reggae label deter you in the least, because these guys aren’t softies by any means. Every song on this album packs a punch of totally metallic proportions

Nigel Rojas handles vocals and guitars, while Nicholas Rojas takes care of the bass. These two brothers are joined by Obasi Springer on drums. Richard Hall strokes the keys and (for the recording of Dat Iz Voodoo) Dion Howe provides additional guitar work. There’s no shortage of ability from the performers on this one. On each track, it’s clear that these guys are more than capable players.

The sound of this band, although seemingly modern, is actually quite varied. Repeated listens reward you with a band that encompasses more than a few genres. Nigel Rojas’ sings with a decidedly Reggae like tone. So long as you’ve an open mind, there’s no reason this shouldn’t appeal. Granted, his sound isn’t for everyone, but anybody that’s in need of something different is likely to gravitate to this stuff.

Nigel Rojas’ and Dion Howe show that heavy riffing is a strong point, but they can also slow things at their leisure. Springer is an excellent percussionist and has ample opportunity to shine on tracks like “Alone.” The band shows a lot of depth where tempo goes and many songs fluctuate between speed and the aforementioned slowdown.

If you don’t manage to find a track on this album that you like, there’s probably something wrong with you. The band touches upon a fairly wide range of subjects. At times, they are political and pissed off. Nigel manages to convey several emotions (angst, love, and sorrow) without seeming fake. Indeed, sincerity is a strong point for this band. They never come off seeming like posers. Rather, they seem like a hungry and energy infused band that’s just waiting to take over the world.

When creating this album, the guys hoped to make music that’d function primarily in a live setting. They’ve done just that, while still proving that they can record a damn good piece of Metal. There are twelve tunes that make for over fifty minutes of great music. Although most tracks highlight the strengths of this group, standouts include Scorpions cover “Is There Anybody There?” This is easily the most reggae influenced song on the album and it’s really pretty fun to listen to. It’s got an island vibe to it, but there’s no shortage of earnestness here, as Nigel really sounds like a lost soul while singing.

“Psycho World” is an aptly named track. It reminds us of how screwed up the world is as the guitars are pushed to a crazed and frenetic pace. The song that follows this one, “Never,” is another high spot. It shows the more profound and “balladesque” side of the band. The solo is soaring, memorable, and reminds of the likes of David Gilmour.

The last track on this one, entitled “Closer,” is another heartfelt number. It prompts us to remember that time is ticking away and that the end could come at any moment. Now, before judgment day befalls, you’d be wise to pick up Dat Iz Voodoo. It’s sure to be a revitalizing album for those in need of something new and inventive. These guys are for real and are more than deserving of a listen. Give them a chance; they aren’t likely to disappoint.

Listen to our audio interview with Nigel Rojas here