Biography
The Twinkle Brothers trace their roots to the earliest days of reggae. Norman Grant has fronted the group since its formation in the early 1960s, when he and his two brothers performed as a trio delivering smooth harmonies in the style of the Melodians and the Mighty Diamonds. In the early 1970s the ensemble partnered with producer and arranger Bunny Lee, a collaboration that generated reggae hits such as "We Can Do It Too" and "Miss Laba Laba." Their strongest and most recognized album, Rasta Pon Top, appeared in 1975; the release blended Rastafarian themes with deep roots rhythms and added soul and gospel vocal touches. Although dedicated reggae listeners formed the group's main audience, the Twinkle Brothers continued to issue records that reached the top of the charts. Commercial success also produced internal strain, as Grant came to view himself primarily as a solo artist rather than a trio member. He later pursued an individual career as a middle-of-the-road soul singer, an endeavor competent yet less compelling than the Twinkle Brothers' earlier work. Relations grew further complicated in 1981 when Grant joined Inner Circle after the death of original lead singer Jacob "Killer" Miller the previous year, making the Twinkle Brothers seem secondary. The Grant brothers nevertheless proved adept at reconciliation, and the group soon resumed activity. Many of their recordings, issued on their own Twinkle label, prove difficult to locate yet contain distinctive material. During the mid-1990s the brothers traveled to Poland, where their catalog enjoys strong sales, to work with the Trebunia Family; the sessions yielded the album Twinkle Inna Poland Style. Producing unexpected and noteworthy music has remained a consistent hallmark of the Twinkle Brothers.
Albums
