Biography
The Ras Ites originated in London, England during 1995, consisting of Cyrus Richards, born 15 November 1981 in London, England on keyboards; Kashta Menelix Tafari, born 22 April 1981 in London, England handling guitar and vocals; Otis Cox Rodney, born 11 March 1985 in London, England on drums; along with Jah Mel Ellison, born 1 June 1982 in London, England providing bass and vocals. While raised in north-east London, the four members participated in nyahbinghi sessions that motivated them to collaborate musically. After honing their skills through a musical workshop, they competed in a talent show at Hackney Empire in London. As the sole live band entrant, their rendition of ‘Africa’ drew parallels to the early 80s style of Musical Youth and Morgan Heritage. Victory in the contest granted them a slot at the Reggae Sunsplash festival in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. During their Jamaican performances, Hugh Fraser extended an invitation for an audition upon their UK return. Jet Star secured their signature in 1999, leading to the issuance of roots tracks like ‘New World Disorder’ and ‘Jah Love’. The ensemble became regulars on the European festival scene, earning praise for their 1998 appearance at Belgium’s Geel Festival. Further releases of socially aware material followed, including a 2000 slot at the Essential Festival. They sustained prominence on reggae charts via successful singles including ‘High Grade’, ‘Bring Back The Rub A Dub Style’, and their take on the Naturalites’ ‘Picture On The Wall’. Back at the Essential Stage in 2001, the band issued their first album, Urban Regeneration, which included standout cuts such as ‘Danger In Your Eyes’, ‘Live Consciously’, and ‘Africa’. Reggae veteran Danny Ray and Fitzroy Blake handled production duties on the record, which critics celebrated for reviving roots and culture elements.