Jamaican reggae band F.Y.A.H. has made a bold entrance into the global music scene with the release of their highly anticipated debut album, Free Your Authentic Heart. Dropping today, February 21, via Dub Rockers, an imprint of VP Records, this 13-track collection is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, love, and self-discovery.
A Band Rooted in Experience and Passion
F.Y.A.H. (an acronym for Free Your Authentic Heart) was founded in 2020 by Delroy “Pele” Hamilton, a renowned bassist and co-founder of the Grammy-nominated reggae group Raging Fyah. The band was born during the pandemic, a time of deep reflection and reinvention for many artists. Fueled by an unshakable passion for music, Pele joined forces with guitarist Nicolas Groskopf and vocalist Elton Earlington to create a new project that blended traditional reggae roots with contemporary influences.
Since their formation, F.Y.A.H. has gained momentum through standout performances at NYC’s SummerStage and Sugar Shack Sessions, as well as through collaborations with reggae luminaries such as Steel Pulse, Josey Wales, and Alborosie.
A Powerful Message Through Music
At its core, Free Your Authentic Heart serves as a deeply personal and socially conscious body of work. The album takes listeners on a journey through themes of freedom, love, and redemption, with each track capturing a unique emotional depth.
One of the album’s standout collaborations is “Freedom Fighter”, featuring Steel Pulse, a powerful anthem against systemic injustice. Meanwhile, Alborosie joins the band on “I Believe,” a song infused with themes of hope and perseverance. On the softer side, British lovers rock singer Hollie Cook lends her soulful voice to “When I’m With You,” a song that beautifully celebrates a divine romantic connection.
Each track on the album tells a unique story:
- “Hold Up I Head” delivers a message of spiritual strength and resilience.
- “Free Your Heart” explores the struggles of mental health and the journey toward inner peace.
- “Love Got a Hold” captures the pure joy of love’s embrace.
- “Live My Life” reflects on the pain of lost love and the longing for a second chance.
- The closing track, “Brighter Day,” leaves listeners with a hopeful message that love and faith can conquer even the darkest times.
A Personal Testament from Pele
Reflecting on the album’s creation, Pele Hamilton shares:
“This project is my life’s testimony and the philosophy by which I live. Once there’s life, it’s more than enough reason to keep giving your best.”
He continues:
“Four years ago, at one of my lowest points, I had no choice but to surrender my all to music. What started with simple voice-note recordings, pen and paper, and an acoustic guitar has now blossomed into the truest reflection of my emotions and experiences. These songs are deeply personal, and I hope listeners find the same solace that I did while creating them.”
With Free Your Authentic Heart, F.Y.A.H. has delivered an album that is both deeply introspective and universally relatable, solidifying their place as a rising force in the reggae world.
Report Mark Winkler
WEDGEDIN NEWS
