LESSONS in UNITY
Review of University of Dub session – 19/08/2016 –
The Scala, London
Fitting that in
the month we celebrate the birthday of Yabby You, we the attendees at the
University of Dub, were treated to a night of spirituality, powered by the offerings
of three sound systems.
The Maasai
warriors of East Africa take pride in being of service to their community; and
so it was with their namesake, hailing from Bristol, who took care of the roots
family, who gathered at the monthly hearth.
I've always
associated the term Word, Sound and Power with Peter Tosh, as he was the first
person I heard use that term. Just like him, this West London sound came
striding through the Scala, confident as the ''Steppin' Razor.''
And in the middle
of the stage, was the eminent resident, Aba-Shanti-I. In this the University of
Dub, he is the Senior Lecturer, flanked by the Visiting ones. We were the happy
students, in the early morning classroom, content with our rhythm curriculum.
As well as
University of Dub, there was Universal Dub. As well as extending invitations to
sounds across the country, Aba-Shanti brings in sounds from Italy and France
also. Flags of many countries, such as Poland, Canada, Sweden and Japan, hang
in the hall; emanating out either side, from a hanging showing Ras Tafari, next
to one of a Lion of Judah. It was this universalism, that was mentioned by the
individuals I spoke with, such as Nims, from India, who said '' These nights
are a brilliant idea. The music appeals to all. It talks about unity. A great
experience.'' Or Alex, a barman, who hails from Spain,'' The people are really
nice. A good atmosphere.''
Over the years,
from Brixton Recreation Centre days, the UOD crew have built up a solid and
ever expanding following - incorporating all. Seems as if all those in
attendence, are happy to play there part - in whatever role. Asking a comment
from one of the Dub Kitchen workers, who is called Shanee, she replied with the
following '' Its a family run business – Aba-Shanti is my dad. I work with
family members every month. We sell Ital food. Its a good place to work: see
old faces and meet new ones. To feed the bellies of the dancers!'' Jason, a
member of the security team had this to say ''One of the best nights we have
here. Its like stepping back in a time zone''. It was heartening to hear these
comments from staff and students alike: the message of Aba Shanti, of Rasta,
radiates: as it seems all are eager to contribute to it. The appreciation of
the deep message, as well as the heavy bass.
The last comment
should go to the event co-ordinator, Joanna, who has been involved with
UOD, from Brixton Rec. days. ''We have
three different sounds each month. All nations come to listen: people from all over
the world. Australia, Europe – there's a common unity. People don’t come here to fight but to enjoy the music, which contains the message to live in love and unity. We can only run these events with the support of the people, so give thanks to everyone supporting University of Dub of the years.''
I salute all those who contribute – staff and
devotees - to making the University of Dub, a treasured experience, especially
the Senior Lecturer, Aba-Shanti-I – and his lessons in unity.
© Natty Mark Samuels, 2016. The Dub.
NATTY MARK SAMUELS - CONTACTS:
Natty Mark Samuels
Social Media: Facebook
Email: bantudub06@gmail.com
Blog: www.africanschool-africa.blogspot.com
THE DUB MAGAZINE: https://issuu.com/thedub
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