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HR's newest album, Singin' in the Heart, is the culmination of his evolutionary search for the beatific reggae moment. HR (for "Human Rights") was originally the nom de thrash of Paul Hudson, founder and lead singer of the rude and exciting reggae/hard-core band the Bad Brains. Now HR is the name of his band as well, and he also calls himself Ras Hailu Gabriel Joseph I. He was made of too fine stuff to remain with the unapologetically coarser Brains; having continued to modulate his grooves since he left, he's now in his own territory of gorgeous pop reggae--parts of Singin' in the Heart nod to Prince, Terence Trent D'Arby, and even Smokey Robinson--and the only trace of his rough beginnings is on the (standout) "Don't Trust No (Shadows After Dark)," with its Aerosmithy riffs and tough solo by David Byers. The show--with brother Earl from the Brains on drums keeping him honest--should be a trip. Saturday, Cubby Bear, 1059 W. Addison; 327-1662.
Art accompanying story in printed newspaper (not available in this archive): photo/Lex Remlin.
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