During the pandemic, Deleon “Pele” Hamilton had an urge to create something new, something from his heart and soul. His creative juices were churning. With the help of guitarist Nicolas “Nico” Groskopf and singer Elton Earlington, the trio got to work on a new project, a new journey, a new album. The album and concept revolve around the themes of love, struggle, upliftment, and resilience.

“What started with simple voice-note recordings, pen and paper, and an acoustic guitar has now blossomed into the truest and purest reflection of how I was feeling and what I was going through, as well as what I wanted to share with the world. The songs on this album are very special to me, and I do hope that you’ll find the same solitude when you listen,” Pele recently said about the work. While this was created out of Pele’s thoughts and desires, with the help of Nico and Elton, this project also came together with other amazing musicians. Among them are Wayne “C-Sharp” Clark, Oral Brown, Aston Barrett Jr., Kirk Bennett, and Peter Samaru on drums; Llamar “Riff Raff” Brown, Andrew Marsh, Kevon Webster, and Koriq Clarke on keys; and Hector “Roots” Lewis, Robert Malcolm, and the late Denver Smith on percussion. This is a truly Jamaican roots reggae band and album.

“This project is my life’s testimony and the philosophy by which I live,” shared Pele. “Once there’s life, it’s more than enough reason to keep giving your best.”

The album opens in the most perfect way with help from Steel Pulse on “Freedom Fighter.” This is a fast-paced rhythm with such a great sound and a powerful message about systemic injustice and liberation. David Hinds is at his best on this groove that perfectly blends the styles of F.Y.A.H. and Steel Pulse. Pele was recently quoted saying about the album, “Four years ago, while at one of my lowest points, I had no choice but to surrender my all to music.” That is the perfect quote for the next track, “Never Give Up.” This is another fast, upbeat song, and Elton sounds fantastic.

“Oh Oh Oh” comes at us next, with a carefree reggae riddim that just puts a smile on your face. The band hits us with “Free Your Heart,” a song that dives deep into mental health and taking care of yourself, with Nico delivering some nice guitar work to guide us through.

Next, it’s time for a nice rocksteady groove and a chill love song, “Cool Down.” The harmonies on this track are so sweet, with some great horn play by Sheldon Palmer. Love this song. Hollie Cook joins them on “When I’m With You.” Another love song and a sweet duet between Hollie and Elton—they sound so incredible together, going back and forth, sharing harmonies and a beautiful message. Another song I love  “Live My Life” is a plea to start all over again with the one you love after making a mistake:

"Baby forgive me please and forget that/
Please set that all aside/
Life without you is a set-back/
Please step back in my life/
I was a fool but now I realize/
How could I lose the best part of my life.”

We stay with the love songs with a really funky groove in “Love Got A Hold.” This is a really fun song—you just want to dance and have a good time! We get some self-reflection with “Where You Gonna Run.” Another great track with Elton once again sounding amazing, but this is also about the instrumentalists: Nico on guitar, Pele on bass, and the percussion and drums walking us through this voyage.

We have reggae and jazz great Glen Browne, the world-famous bassist and guitarist, joining F.Y.A.H. on “Hold Up I Head.” Glen has been making music since the ’60s and is an amazing addition to this song, with nyabinghi drums carrying us through. Glen brings us his warm, calming voice, passing on his wisdom with the inspiring lyrics. This is a sweet, soothing song for the heart.

Next brings us another collaboration, but not like we would expect. “I Believe” features Alborosie, but not joining Elton on the mic. The song was recorded at his Schengen Studio, and he adds his expertise on keyboard, percussion, and guitar, while also working on the production of the song.

The song that probably shows off Elton’s range and beautiful voice the most is the final track, “Brighter Day.” This is a multi-dimensional song that really steps away from the reggae sound and brings us a nice mix of styles and genres. Nico finishes it off with a sweet guitar solo, a perfect way to conclude this journey that Pele, Nico, Elton, and all their friends have taken us on.

This project may have taken a few years to come together, but it is well worth the wait. Love, struggle, upliftment, and resilience are what we get. These gentlemen are truly masters of their craft and have come together to bring us an amazing listening experience. I only hope the future brings us more F.Y.A.H., whether it is new music, live performances, or collaborations. This album is truly FYAH!

One Love,
Todd Judd