FOR many years, Rastafarians have called on ‘bredrin’ to ‘smoke the herb and hold a humble thought’.

With smoking cited as a public hazard globally, even Rastas are looking for healthier alternatives to enjoy their beloved weed.

The Uprising Roots Band’s latest song, Steamers, is a nod to the increasingly popular practice of consuming vaporised ganja.

The song was recorded four years ago and released on the band’s debut album, Skyfiyah, in 2011.

Uprising drummer Kush McAnuff believes it is the appropriate time for another ‘draw’ on Steamers.

“Through the heights of the whole vibration ‘roun’ Steaming wi sey jus’ put it out, plus is like an anthem wid the fans,” he said.

McAnuff, who is also the band’s lead singer, pointed to one of the differences between vaporised ganja and smoking the traditional chalice.

“When yuh smoke the chalice an’ puff the herb gone, but when yuh steam yuh still si the herb.”

Vaporised ganja is quite the trend in the United States, especially in states like California and Colorado where ganja use is legal.

According to theweedblog.com, vaporising is much healthier than smoking, as it allows persons to enjoy ganja without inhaling smoke.

It has caught on among the in-crowd throughout the US, from corporate types, to soccer moms.

The Uprising Roots Band released a video for Steamers on January 16. It is directed by Alex Frass.

Their second album, Black to I Roots, is scheduled for release within the first quarter of this year.

– Howard Campbell