With a sold-out crowd and positive vibrations pulsing through the venue, the evening was a profound reminder of the band’s lasting impact on global music culture. As a longtime reggae enthusiast since the mid-1980s, I can confidently say the experience was nothing short of phenomenal.
From the moment the band took the stage, it was clear that Steel Pulse remains as dynamic and commanding as ever. One of the night’s most striking elements was the presence of a full live horn section. In an era where many artists rely on backing tracks or synthesized sounds, Steel Pulse’s decision to feature live brass added an authentic, layered richness that elevated the performance to new heights. The horns brought an electrifying energy that filled the room, creating an exhilarating atmosphere that every attendee could feel deep in their soul.
A particularly moving moment occurred when bassist Amlak Tafari made his way into the crowd to personally connect with a fan in a wheelchair. This heartfelt gesture exemplified the band's enduring commitment to inclusivity, unity, and community—core tenets of reggae’s spirit. It wasn’t just a concert; it felt like a family reunion where love, respect, and shared energy flowed freely between the stage and the audience.
David Hinds, the legendary frontman and founding member of Steel Pulse, delivered a performance that was nothing short of remarkable. His live vocals, full of power and soul, surpassed even the studio recordings, offering a raw authenticity that resonated with the audience. Hinds’ ability to slightly accelerate their classic rhythms infused the night with an irresistible danceable energy, keeping the entire venue swaying and moving to the infectious pulse of their rocksteady beats.
As a Grammy Award-winning band with a half-century legacy, Steel Pulse has solidified their place as one of the most important and influential groups in the history of roots reggae. Their commitment to delivering socially conscious messages of justice, unity, and spiritual awareness remains as powerful today as it was when they first emerged from the Handsworth district of Birmingham, England. Friday’s performance was a stirring testament to why Steel Pulse’s influence continues to reverberate across generations and continents.
In conclusion, Steel Pulse’s concert at Ventura Music Hall was more than just a show—it was a masterclass in musicianship, a celebration of cultural resilience, and a vibrant affirmation of reggae’s enduring power to inspire and unite. For anyone who treasures reggae, it was an unforgettable reminder of why Steel Pulse remains a towering force in music, even after 50 years. Maximum blessed love and respect to Steel Pulse for five decades of uplifting the world through roots, culture, and spiritual enlightenment.
Click here for more photos from the event.
