Roots Music.nl, the Netherlands-based webzine recently published their review of Ras Iba's new album "Many Lives" (Mt. Nebo Records) and features it as a "Pick of the Month." The source article is reprinted here and available at http://www.rootsmusic.nl/fc1.html?/roots_music_store.htm. Iba first came to the worlds attention when he opened the Bambu Station productions compilation 'Talkin' Roots - Volume 1' in 2002 with his song 'Chant'. With music in his blood, his father a musician, Iba had been the lead singer of some bands before but had never been very successful. His collaboration with Bambu Station led to the release of Iba's first solo album, the rather successful Jah Lion - Children Of The Nile (Mt. Nebo Records, 2003). On his beautiful debut album Iba's skilful singing, conscious lyrics and soulful backing made it stand out from the rest. The timbre of his voice and general feel of the album were very near to those of the works of the late Prince Lincoln. The typical humming, whining vocals Prince Lincoln could draw out and his staccato delivery of lyrics were very close to what Iba delivered on 'Jah Lion - Children Of The Nile'. On his latest album it seems that he has grown considerably for his voice is now more his own and hence even better than before. The lyrics are almost all written by the man himself and the album is a bit more varied than its very fine predecessor. The very wise, very well crafted and conscious lyrics betray an artist interested in the world's runnings and hint that this man is probably not the next young Jamaican. The Jamaican people strive for a better island with a proper government first before they will become more interested in world affairs. Iba is from St. Croix, one of the US Virgin Islands, and has lived in Connecticut for some years. He is in his mid thirties and he does know what is wrong with the world today. From pollution to Iraq, love versus hate, the glorification of gangsters and consumer society, no issue is too big for Iba to write strong and meaningful lyrics about. In his own words: "The music is in the message and the message is in the music." (from 'Vibes'). Iba is backed very professionally on all tracks by Bambu Station and the mix is excellent. Two tunes are spiced up with deejays, 'Afrika' boasts the award winning Ijah Menelik in top form and 'Babylon Don't Like' features the not yet known but potent still Rafijah. All tracks sound great except for maybe the fake violin in 'Strongest Woman'. Here an already very recognisable melody is unfortunately taken over the top into something kitsch, a problem that songs about mothers suffer easily and way too often. Please concider that this the album's only flaw. My favourite track is hard to choose but the first and fourth ('Stay In The Right' and 'Save The World') have such great synergy between lyrics and rhythm that they might just get the edge. (Teacher Dan)"

UK Reggae Guide Review Fri, Dec. 22 2006 ‘Many Lives’ is Iba’s (pronounced "Eye-bah") second album release. Hailing from the Virgin Islands Iba is the son of a musician and was introduced to music at an early age. He became the lead singer of the St. Croix Front Line Reggae Band and quickly became a major success. In 1995 (after Hurricane Marilyn) Iba relocated to Connecticut, USA and headed the Survivors Reggae Band for several years. He then went on to record with Bambu Station and several of his tunes were selected for their award winning compilation ‘Talking Roots – Volume 1’. In 2003 Iba released his debut album ‘Jah Lion (Children of the Nile)’ which generated outstanding reviews and critical acclaim. Now he returns with ‘Many Lives’ which is fresh, original and full of positive vibes. The music is tight, well arranged with original riddims laid down by Bambu Station. Iba’s voice is unmistakable and complements the music extremely well. Lyrically the tunes are conscious and full of positive roots vibes. Every song is a joy to hear, each has its own merits. Standout tunes for me include ‘World Crisis’, an uplifting, bright and inventive track; ‘Afrika’ with Ijah Menelik is another original and imaginative cut; ‘Babylon Don’t Like’ is awesome with a heavy riddim and features the rough vocal deejay style of Rafijah. Finally ‘Vibes’ is a song of praise for reggae music and will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated! Overall this is a seriously solid roots release and comes highly recommended. Review by Jumpup