Micheal Franti Sells Out Portsmouth Music Hall

Dreadlocked vocalist and guitarist Michael Franti leads a band that is reputed as much for its politically charged lyrics as it is for its lusty and danceable beats. Of mixed descent that includes African, Native American, Italian and German blood, Franti is a poet and composer who merges international sounds to create uplifting music in a troubled time.

Apparently, Franti’s message resonates with listeners on the Seacoast, because Spearhead’s upcoming show at The Music Hall in Portsmouth on Thursday, June 26, sold out a week in advance.

A native of Oakland and former basketball player at the University of San Francisco, Franti formed his first group in 1986, an afro-industrial band called The Beatnigs. In 1991, he fronted The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, which also featured jazz guitarist Charlie Hunter. Franti created Spearhead in 1994 and has since released about 15 live and studio recordings, including his 2006 Iraq-themed album, “Yell Fire!”

The artist has also been an active supporter of social justice and human rights. In 2006, he traveled to Iraq, Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories to play music and film his experiences in the war-ravaged Middle East. He turned his journey into a documentary called “I Know I’m Not Alone,” and his experience inspired the songs on “Yell Fire!” But far from writing depressing or bitter songs about war, Franti composes tunes that celebrate life and love, employing music to help people transcend the horrors of war.

Spearhead is rounded out by Carl Young on bass, Dave Shul on guitar, Manas Itiene on drums and Raliegh J. Neal II on keyboards. The upcoming show in Portsmouth, part of The Music Hall’s Intimately Yours series, begins at 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 26.


The Reggae News Agency

www.riddimja.com