5 on 5 with Cedric Brooks

Its a tough task to find 5 songs that define one of the most eclectic musicians from Jamaica.

After leaving Alpha, Cedric Brooks became a seminal figure in Jamaican music, bridging genres and generations with his work in reggae, soul-infused instrumental music, and big band arrangements. Here are 5 songs you should know from his repertoire that showcase Brooks’ unique contributions to ska, jazz, reggae and soul:

While living in Philadelphia in the late 60s Brooks spent time with Sonny Rollins, Leon Thomas and Sun Ra's Arkestra. Brooks' band The Mystics highlights how the experience expanded Brooks’ musical and philosophical horizons.

The "Money Maker" instrumental released by Studio One is textbook early reggae and one of Brooks' first appearances alongside his Alpha collaborator, trumpet player David Madden.

Before they were Count Ossie and the Mystic Revelation of Rastafari they were the Mystic Revelation of Rastafari -- a percussion and horns led ensemble founded by Cedric ‘Im’ Brooks’ group, The Mystics, and a community of drummers linked led by Oswald ‘Count Ossie’  Williams. 

Released in 1973, "Nobody's Business" weaves together folk music forms and Rasta riddims on a tapestry of Brooks' jazz saxophone arrangement.

A standout from the 1974 album, The Light of Saba album, "Africa" showcases Brooks pan African musical vision while centreing his commitment to jazz improvisation.