Gondwana isn't simply Chile's best roots reggae band, it's one of the best outfits in the world. The group's first two albums sizzled, and singer
Quique Neira bears a passing vocal resemblance to the late
Bob Marley at times. And the bandmembers definitely have
the Wailers as one of their cues -- "The Boat" bears a passing resemblance to "No Woman, No Cry." There are some curve balls, such as the sitar sound that opens "Crying and Dying" or the pan pipes on "South American Man." There's no doubting their Rasta sincerity, or their songwriting craft -- it's just that real inspiration is in short supply this time around. Even "September 11" seems little more than a nod. The feel-good bonus track, "Jam-aica," is pleasant enough, but little more than a musical throwaway. This time, unfortunately,
Gondwana hasn't managed to hit a home run. ~ Chris Nickson