MUCH should be expected of any band called Heights Of Wisdom. Formed just over one year ago, the quintet are determined to live up to their lofty name.

They recently launched their Generation (Y)? EP in New York where most of its members live. Jermaine Joseph, one of Heights Of Wisdom’s two vocalists, said they are preparing to introduce the 10-song project to Jamaica through an unconventional method.

“We are giving it away. It’s for free because we want to get it to as many people as possible,” said Joseph, 21.

Four of the songs on Generation (Y)? are produced by Trinidadian DJ Future. Joseph’s father, singer Donovan Joseph, co-produced four songs.

Some of the tracks feature Roots Radics drummer Style Scott who died last year. Most, like the title song and Trouble in The World, address issues affecting Heights of Wisdom’s generation.

“Wi live together as brothers and not jus’ discuss an’ highlight the problems of our generation, but try to come up with solutions,” said Joseph, a student at Baruch College in New York.

Rimel Smith (drummer), Kemani ‘Fari Di Future’ Powell (vocals), Desmond Braxton (keyboards) and Javed Wiggins (saxophone) are the other members of Heights Of Wisdom. Like Joseph, they are in their 20s.

The group take their cue from Rhythm and Blues acts like Arrested Development and creative reggae unit The Nomaddz who take a communal approach to music.

That, Joseph believes, has made Generation (Y)? a satisfactory debut.

“We live in unity an’ unity leads to positives. That’s what we try to bring across,” he said.

— Howard Campbell