The relationship between O.B.F. and Iration Steppas dates back to 2004 when Iration Steppas played an O.B.F. dubplate, 'Babylon Tremble', during a dance. Over the years, their friendship has grown ever stronger, and in 2022, Dubquake Records released a full documentary on Iration Steppas titled 'Ina Vanguard Style: A Documentary On Iration Steppas'. Ultimately, Mark Iration, Dennis Rootical, and Rico O.B.F. decided to retreat to the studio together to work on a collaborative project. The result is 'Revelation Time', a solid piece of UK steppers with occasional nods to the past.
By Jah Rebel
In the first category, tracks like opener ‘Righteous Way’, the dark title track ‘Serious Time’, and the hard-hitting industrial stepper ‘Roadblock’ are definitely worth mentioning. However, we were more taken with tracks like ‘What A Ting’, where Iration Steppas vocalist Mark Iration’s voice reminded us of that of Barrington Levy and echoed the Waterhouse wail of artists like Don Carlos, Junior Reid, or Yami Bolo. Similar tracks like ‘Roots Radics’ and the 1980s-influenced ‘Earthman Style’ also stand out.
In a category of its own is ‘Love Sound System’, an instant sound anthem that will elevate many dances for a long time to come.
For the aptly titled ‘The Meaning Of Dub’, the album’s outro, O.B.F. and Iration Steppas assembled a veritable plethora of names from the dub scene. Think of Tena Stelin, Joseph Lalibela, King Earthquake, Pupajim & Stand High Patrol, Charlie P, King Shiloh, Junior Roy, Sr. Wilson, Black Omolo, Solo Banton, Tippa Irie, Dubkasm, Brother Culture, Donovan Kingjay, I-Mitri Counteraction, and Steve Vibronics, all contributing their personal vision of the dub genre.
O.B.F. and Iration Steppas will present ‘Revelation Time’ live at Couleur Café!
Founder alongside Jah Shakespear who transitioned to this role in late 2014. Previously worked as critic and reporter, balancing passions for music and Haile Selassie spirituality.
June 8, 2024