Crack of Dawn – Spotlight
By Heather Savage – August 22, 2018
Categories: Albums, Music Reviews, New Album
Over the past two decades, mainstream pop music seemed to lose much of the rebellious spirit that once made rock, hip-hop, and other genres so explosively popular and unifying. The raw energy that fueled these movements seemed to fade, replaced by a sanitized, formulaic sound. Instead of the authentic, DIY ethos that defined punk rock, beat poetry, and the urban experimentalism of the early 1980s, we were given a wave of artificial, angst-ridden electro-pop that failed to capture the same level of artistic integrity.
But just when it seemed like that era of fearless creativity had passed, a resurgence of authentic musicianship is emerging—and among the most exciting comebacks is Crack of Dawn. This legendary Canadian jazz, soul, and R&B powerhouse was once on the brink of chart domination before industry politics complicated their ascent. Now, they’re proving that their time is far from over. With their latest album, Spotlight, Crack of Dawn reaffirms their legacy as one of Canada’s most vibrant and enduring funk collectives. Released internationally last year, Spotlight is finally garnering the recognition it deserves in the United States—a symbolic final frontier for these funk pioneers. Their signature blend of rich melodies, tight grooves, and impeccable musicianship is a reminder of what real, soulful music sounds like in an age dominated by digital production.
For fans of timeless funk, jazz-infused soul, and R&B excellence, Spotlight is a must-listen. Crack of Dawn isn’t just making a return; they’re reclaiming their rightful place in music history.
Visit their official website: Crack of Dawn
DAWNAY
Dawnay is a South African singer, producer, and songwriter best known for his hit "U Touch Me" which broke records in South Africa when it spent 22 weeks at the top of the charts in 2001, toppling artists such as Destiny's Child and Shaggy from the No. 1 position. Dawnay opened for Shaggy in 2002. In 2002 Dawnay also received a SAMA nomination for "Best pop album". Dawnay's hit song "You touch me", was also used in a "Simba" advert and the song was also the only local song used in the Coca-Cola pop stars auditions. Following South African success, WEA / Eternal (part of Warner Music) in the UK picked up the license. In 2002, a promo 12" vinyl and CD single were released featuring remixes by Almighty, Xenomania, and Nip & Tuck. "U Touch Me" is published by Robroy Music.
Messenjah
Messenjah was formed in Kitchener, Ontario and released their first album Rock You High independently . They were the first Canadian reggae band to be picked up by a major label; Warner Music Canada (also known as WEA). The band began working out of Toronto. and in 1988 the band was featured in the U.S. feature film Cocktail as well as on the film's soundtrack. They were also featured on the soundtrack of the Canadian produced movie Milk and Honey . Messenjah has toured all over North America as well as in Jamaica for over sixteen years and won a the Juno Award for Best Reggae Recording. http://www.messenjah.net/home.html