By Jason Fierstein
Arizona Daily Wildcat
The Washington Post once so politely called the native Jamaican's voice "the stuff of children's nightmares." Irie and dreaded fans flock to his shows to catch his electrically-charged performances and eccentric personality.
At Saturday's Jamaicafest benefit concert at Reid Park, which starts at 10 a.m., rastafarians will once again soak up the talents of one of reggae's premiere artists and innovators, Eek-A-Mouse.
The 6-foot-6 reggae superstar has been hailed for his vocal range as well as his efforts in toasting, sing-jaying and dub styles of music. The mighty Mouse's style combines singing with different forms of poetry ranging from smooth and silent to a more vocal and outspoken form. Tracks performed by the Mouse man are sure to include songs from his latest album release, "U-Neek."
Jamaicafest '95 will be a day-long bonanza. Sets by the Rastafarmers, Radical Mix, Northstar, Grant Man and the Island Beat will last up until around 8 p.m. Jamaican DJ Papa Ranger will perform and mix live on stage throughout the Jamaicafest.
American, African and Caribbean foods, art and crafts will be sold and parts of the proceeds will help to support KXCI community radio. The annual benefit event is free (as well as parking), but in the spirit of the festival, promoters are asking a donation of two cans of food to be given to the Tucson Community Food Bank.
DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center is located near the entrance to Reid Park on Country Club Road between Broadway and 22nd Street. Call 623-1000 for more information.