Don Hartley – Black Moses – Press Release

November 29, 2022

Press Release: Don Hartley returns with a stirring message for the world by Mr Topple for Pauzeradio.com.

UK-based Roots artist Don Hartley once again projects Manchester’s talents across the globe, as he delivers another stunning track – showing just what the English Reggae scene can offer.

Black Moses, released via Hartley’s own, new label Blessed People, sees this accomplished singer, songwriter and producer take things back to their roots, with a veritable musical feast of conscious Reggae deliciousness:

The track follows on from Hartley’s previous release, Do You Have What It Takes.

“Black Moses is an extremely pleasant surprise from Hartley and all involved. Lush, well-arranged, and extremely well-mastered, the musical arrangement is compelling – with very keen attention to detail and a smorgasbord of instruments all working in perfect harmony. Hartley’s vocal performance is urgent but controlled, as he glides around his register with ease. Overall, Black Moses is exciting and pleasing in equal measure” – Mr Topple for Pauzeradio

Black Moses is the title track from Hartley’s forthcoming album, out on 25 November. You can pre-save it here. It bodes very well for the full release, as Hartley has mixed some sure-fire Reggae vibes with Soul-led elements. Listen out for the skanking guitar and keys on a bubble rhythm which represents Hartley’s Roots Reggae foundations well. But then, other elements are brought in – including a funky, soulful sax line from Ali Thomas.

Hartley said of the track:

“This is a songwriting collaboration between myself and Indie rocker, singer/songwriter Brad Wilson giving birth to this Reggae classic. Guided through the Reggae sphere by my stylistic sensibilities, Brad carved out the initial chords, melody and lyrics. We were later assisted by Reggae musicians and producers Malcolm Goldmaster, who helped to record and arrange the soulful horns, Thomas Walker and Pedro Queiroz to flesh out and solidify the reggae feel. I reckon the final composition is a tribute to the process, and I’m pleased to represent this one”.

What Hartley has also delivered is an uplifting and self-affirming lyrical narrative about how being a spiritual person of faith under Babylon’s system is a lonely and difficult path to tread (‘Black Moses) – but if you put your faith in the Lord, then you (and we) will prevail.

Black Moses is the perfect Roots Reggae track for the times we live in. Blending genres and with a gorgeous musical line plus Hartley’s commanding vocal, it’s an ideal track for radio at just under four minutes – and will surely be a favourite with Reggae lovers everywhere, too.

Black Moses credits:

Lyrics/producer: Don Hartley.
Composer: Bradley James Wilson.
Production assistants: Malcolm Goldmaster, Thomas Walker & Pedro Queiroz.
Bass, Guitars, Piano, Organ: Thomas Walker. Drums, Percussion: Pedro Queiroz.
Saxophone: Ali Thomas.
Mixing and mastering: Pedro Queiroz
Artwork: Dan Tenzin-Dolma.