VIbrance The Arts (Anchants)

...In 2002 "VIbrance The Arts" was established, by Arif Anwar, with a focus on documenting reggae artists and reggae music coming out of the Virgin Islands. Being a lover of roots music, as well as the Virgin Islands (St. Croix) being where he grew up, Arif would soon express the desire to make his own music. He first got a taste after discovering his talents of dance and spoken word. A self-taught musician, he would learn to play the drums, bass, percussions and some keys. This leading to the deeply rooted island sound, "Anchants". Gaining momentum, Anchants played with some of the more established names to come out of the VI roots family, as well as ones from the North Carolina, Raleigh area. "Initially, I just wanted to create the music that I was hearing in my head. I thought I would have to start a band to create these sounds, then I realized that a band was necessary to deliver the music on stage, but if I learned to play each instrument, I could record them myself.” This soon lead to “VIbrance The Arts” taking form as an independent record label. In this capacity, VTA would produce “Serenity,” the May, 2007 debut release for both the label and Trinidad-born writer and vocalist, Empress Cherisse..." 2008 would mark the release of "Merkaba" the label's second production, which again displayed Arif's musicianship but would also shed light on his vocal and writing abilities. To see "Anchants" live is a treat, especially for anyone who appreciates original music and raw talent. Lead vocalist, Arif's stage presence is magnetic and his lyrics open a window to thoughts beyond the norm. The sound is distinctive and transcendental. With sets that vary from smooth ethereal tracks like "Silence" "Dem Kind" and "This Picha" to the popular crowd pleasers "Aha!" "Word Sound" and "Run Duppy". Check for the sound "Anchants". ("And chants for the "Most High").