An excellent reggae band, Joe Gad & The Earth People recorded their first and only album at 8th Avenue Studio in Johannesburg, South Africa 1990 and released it in 1991. The album featured the great writing of the band’s lead vocalist, Joe Gad. The record was produced by Craig Beyrooti and Martin Mitchell, who collaborated as co-producers on several projects including Blackie Sibisi and Fly by Night. This reggae album has a distinct South African sound and features the great musicianship of The Earth People and the powerful vocals of Joe Gad. 

It opens with three upbeat, energetic tunes starting with the title track “Rise Up Afrika”. Reminding listeners that we have a “mind to care for one another”, Joe Gad expresses that killing is no good in “Murder No No”.  Next is “Rocka Reggae Music”, a tune where Joe shares he loves all types of music like rock, soul and calypso, but reggae is his number one.  The next track is named after the talented band of the “Earthpeople”.  “Sodom and Gomora” cries beware to evil doers followed by calls for freedom in “Upside Down”.  The group then give a reggae treatment to the traditional song “Just A Closer Walk” before closing with “Rastaman”.  

All songs written by Joe Gad

Just A Closer Walk - Traditional

Personnel

Joe Gad – Lead Vocals

Asher Legae – Keyboards

George Marumo – Keyboards

Reubin Morallana – Guitars

Gordon Mbelu – Bass, Backing Vocals

Sylvester Mosia – Backing Vocals

Don Mtipa – Drums

Guest Musicians: Martin Mitchell, Andy Thomas, Emil Zoghby

Track Listing

1 - Rise Up Afrika

2 - Murder No No

3 - Rocka Reggae Music

4 - Earthpeople

5 - Sodom and Gomora

6 - Upside Down

7 - Just A Closer Walk

8 - Rastaman