Reggae for the new age

Award-winning musician David Kirton will bring his blend of rock, pop and reggae from the islands to Laguna Beach.

The Barbados native, who recently made MTV’s top 10 and was named Barbados’ 2009 Reggae Artist of the Year, will perform his latest hits from 7 to 10 p.m. Sunday at Mozambique’s Shebeen Lounge, and will be accompanied by guitarist Michael Mctaggart, bassist Kirubel A Kebede, keyboardist Quincy McCrary and drummer Te’Mir Yohannes Sweeney.

The “new age” singer-songwriter, who has shared the stage with well-known roots reggae artists like Ziggy Marley and Steel Pulse, said his soulfully strong lyrics layered over guitar driven rhythms separate him from mainstream Caribbean music.

“I have a different approach,” he said. “I don’t copy what’s happening in the industry, but enjoy developing my own [breed] of music.

“The end result is unique and personal “” it’s all me.”

Kirton’s most recent album, “Time for Change,” released in 2007 under his indie label Birds Eye Music, he said, is his most dynamic compilation to date, with an eclectic mix of music genres which encompass profound lyrics about the world through his eyes.

“My music tells a history, and [lends] a positive vibe,” he said. “It’s meant to make people feel good about themselves and about life, and inspire them to get up and go again when life is beating them down.

“I write a lot of love songs too, as women are important in keeping society stable,” he laughed.

Prior albums include “Island Songs for Children” (2002), “Modern Roots,” (2000) which he recorded in Bob Marley’s home in Jamaica and “Stranger” (1998).

“[Marley’s] house was a really interesting place to record, since he is one of my biggest musical influences.”

He has also released three music videos, “Time for Change,” “Green Camouflage” and “Free to Fly,” which he filmed with actor Gary Durdin.

Kirton is currently developing two albums, which he hopes to release next year.

“I’m glad to still be in the game, running on my own steam and developing my music as I see fit,” he said. “I have a lot to offer yet.”

If You Go

WHAT: David Kirton

WHEN: 7 to 10 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: Mozambique’s Shebeen Lounge, 1740 S. Coast Hwy.

COST: $10 cover charge

INFORMATION: Call (949) 715-7777 or visit www.mozambiqueoc.com