By Romey Norton - October 4, 2024
Harder than the Rock is the brilliant story behind the first UK band to embrace the new sound coming out of Jamaica - Reggae.
From northern soul to pop, the UK has always been a hub for musical talent, and in the 1970s UK music was expanding and exploding. The Cimarons were at the heart of this musical movement, travelling thousands of miles from Jamaica, bringing their experimentation and letting the new generation of Black British youth get in touch with their roots. The band is made up of Maurice Ellis (drums), Carl Levy (organist), Franklin Dunn (bass), Gichie (guitar), and Carl Bert (lead singer).
The Cimarons worked with reggae royalty Bob Marley and legends such as Toots & the Maytals, Jimmy Cliff, Lee 'Scratch' Perry, The Pioneers, and even Paul McCartney. Even though they’ve worked with some of the biggest names in the business, they’ve never been hugely recognised regarding their music, impact, and legacy. Thankfully, Harder Than The Rock is here to tell their story, delve into why they’re not so recognised, and follow the band’s final chapter as they want to end their career on a high.
The documentary opens by taking you back to the ’70s with record players, funky furniture, and short, chunky TVs. Straight into the music, you’ll watch these reggae legends do what they do best. The footage has a wonderful nostalgic feel to it - even for someone like me who was born in the 90’s. There’s a very chill pace to the documentary, probably down to the music constantly being played throughout. The one hour and forty minutes swiftly flew by and their music is now on my playlists. Especially when they are simply playing their music - it’s an extremely chilled experience.
Multiple interviews discuss how their music impacted the UK and the world - they were probably the first Reggae band to play in countries like Japan and Ireland. As well as the racism the band was subjected to, their struggles, and what they’ve overcome. There are first-class interviews with the band, authors, record label producers, record shop owners, DJs, musicians, and more, all sharing their experiences, opinions, and gratitude toward the band and reggae music.
It’s interesting to hear the history behind the band, and London at the time. The clubs, the shops, the food, the influence the Caribbean had on the UK. As the band reflects on their career, and the passing of one member, the documentary takes an emotional and thought-provoking turn. Despite the hard-hitting loss of a member, the band continues to perform their first live gig in 30 years, in London, in 2023. A very fulfilling phase of the documentary.
What stands out in Harder than the Rock is the passion and determination the band and more have for reggae music - how reggae has a universal message. Music brings people, of all creeds and cultures, together, and in music, we are one. It’s a beautiful message.
Harder than the Rock is a well-put-together, informative, and emotional music documentary. The love and pride everyone has for The Cimarons and reggae music is truly inspiring, and what a wonderful documentary to have to solidify and archive their careers for generations to watch and enjoy.
Harder Than The Rock is out now in UK cinemas
Synopsis
Explores the overlooked impact and influence of the UK's first reggae band, Cimarons, as they persevere against all odds and follow their dream of playing to live audiences, one last time.
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