Title: Beat Down Babylon
Genre: Roots / Dub
Label: Side Door Records
The final recording with the original line up.
The Mighty Mystics are a Canadian base vocal group from the Reggae capital of the world, Jamaica. Toronto has been their home since the late ’70s. *Louis O’Conner (R.I.P. June 2019)*, Carlton Harrison (Simba), and Mr. Winston (Thinka Francis) are known throughout Canada and the bordering U.S cities as a top vocal group in all genres of song; with reggae in their hearts.
The Mystics are a strong advocate of conscious lyrical content and a real lover of “Lover’s Rock.” That determines the type of songs they play. The demand for their performances led them to share the stage with some of Jamaica’s legends, such as Third World, Delroy Wilson, Freddie McGregor, Maxi Priest, Frankie Paul, and one of Jamaica’s top singers, Mr. John Holt. Holt told them they remind him of the vocal group, The Paragons. Holt was a singer/songwriter with The Paragons of Kingston, Jamaica up until 1964.
The Mystics are also known for their flashy clothing styles as witnessed when they share the stage with US artists like the Manhattans, the Drifters, and Percy Sledge. The Mighty Mystics have decided to turn their attention to the recording studio once again. This time with Toronto’s Rhythm Express – Everton Paul, Bill King, Shane ‘Shaky J’ Forrest, Juno award Winner - Jesse ‘Dubmatix’ King – guest horns and Juno Award winner Alison Young and Chris Butcher of Heavyweights Brass Band.
A complete recording is in the works with covers of early rocksteady classics from artists such as Desmond Dekker and others. The first single ‘Beat Down Babylon’ pays homage to Junior Byles and Lee Perry and their influence over a generation of reggae lovers.
The sound is Studio One – as captured by sound engineer Jesse ‘Dubmatix’ King at Side Door Records.
Of note – Mystic - Louis O’Connor past suddenly only weeks after recording vocals. This one is for you Louis!
Producers: Bill & Jesse King and Everton ‘Pablo’ Paul.
The Mighty Mystics are:
Vocals: Carlton Harrison
Louis O’Connor (R.I.P.)
Winston Francis.
Arranger/Organ: Bill King
Guitar: Shane ‘Shaky J’ Forrest
Bass: Jesse ‘Dubmatix’ King
Drums/Percussion: Everton ‘Pablo’ Paul
Tenor Sax: Alison Young
Trombone: Chris Butcher
Photography: Bill King
Graphics & Design: Jesse ‘Dubmatix’ King
Side Door Records Inc.
