Koolaz takes on the world
An accountant by profession, Chester Dawes is meticulous when it comes to balancing the books. He takes a similar approach to music as Koolaz.
The New York-based singer took his time crafting songs for Koolaz to the World, his first album which is scheduled for release in June.
The project’s lead single, Sugar in my Cup, was recently released.
Koolaz began production on the songs several years ago. Determined to get things right, he worked with some respected musicians on Koolaz to the World, including bassist Chris Meridith, his long-time collaborator; guitarist Earl “Chinna” Smith; drummer Squiddly Cole; and Paul “Wrong Move” Crosdale.
The songs carry the roots-reggae feel he was weaned on in Franklin Town, east Kingston. He was inspired by harmony groups such as The Wailers, The Abyssinians, and Israel Vibration.
“That’s di sound of my generation, di ‘70s were a time of positive vibes an’ that’s how I like my music,” said Koolaz.
His initial recording sessions took place in the late 1980s at Jimmy Cliff’s Oneness studio in Kingston, but those songs were never released. It was not until 1993 that Gun Play, his first song, came out.
Migrating to the United States five years later, he maintained interest in music. In 2015, Koolaz released the self-produced EP, Strong Love.
— Howard Campbell
