Tetrack is a reggae group formed by Carlton Hines, Dave Harvey, and Paul Mangaroo in the 70s. It brings together 3 rather high-pitched voices influenced by American soul. Together, they began recording a few singles such as "Only Jah Jah Know" in 1977.
The following year, this track opened the first album by Tetrack. Titled "Let's Get Started," it was recorded between the Harry J and Channel One studios under the guidance of sound engineers Sylvan Morris and Maxie. For the melodies, the group called upon notable musicians such as drummer Leroy "Horsemouth" Wallace, bassist Robbie Shakespeare, saxophonist Headley Bennett, and the great Augustus Pablo on various instruments (melodica, xylophone, piano). The latter is also a co-producer and arranged the album.
The musicians produce relentless compositions with a heavy skank that elevate the lyrics and vocal cords of the 3 friends. Each track immerses us in a relaxing and pleasant universe that perfectly mixes the quality of the instrumentation with the voices, as seen in the exquisite "Look Within Yourself." A conscious track that highlights the complementarity of the trio on a penetrating roots rhythm tinged with brass. We also note Augustus Pablo's melodica on the deep "Isn't It Time." While the lyrics are mainly written by Carlton Hines, each expresses themselves as a leader or in harmony with their style. We savor Paul Mangaroo's falsetto on beautiful songs like "Let's Get Started" or "Couldn't Walk Away," then Carlton's sweet voice on the lovely "It's Up To You" or "Simple Things." Dave Harvey brings his lightness on "We Don't Get Along" or "Judge & Jury." In total, the album includes 10 well-constructed and very balanced tracks that certainly deserve a careful listen!
In the early 80s, the group released a second album titled "Trouble" before moving on from the group. Each pursued their career with varying degrees of success. Carlton Hines used his writing skills for artists like Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, or Mighty Diamonds, while the other two singers provided backing vocals on various projects. In 2008, Carlton Hines relaunched the group with Norris Reid replacing Paul Mangaroo. The album "Unfinished Business" was released in 2012, produced by Augustus Pablo.