Cornerstone Roots
Cornerstone Roots are one of New Zealand's premier roots-reggae outfits, based in Raglan. They have released an album called Soul Revolution (2002), and two EPs, One Fine Day (2001) and Forward Movement (2004).
Formed in 2001 after a session at the local Raglan Musicians Club, the original Cornerstone Roots comprised singer/songwriter/guitarist Brian McMillan (ex-Boil Up), drummer Turongo Dixon and bassist Naomi Tuao. The music at that time was raw and "riddim" focused with a mix of contemporary styled ska, roots, soul and reggae. The band quickly developed a strong local following with many of their early shows being filmed and recorded by fans. This prompted the band to record their first EP One Fine Day in 2001, and they then set about touring provincial New Zealand.
In 2002 Cornerstone released their debut album Soul Revolution. The album release was backed up with a 20 date tour of NZ ending at the Wellington Town Hall supporting Sly and Robbie. To date seven out of the eleven tracks off Soul Revolution have been playlisted on independent radio in NZ, with tracks also playlisted in Australia, Japan, Brazil and the USA.
2004 saw the band cross the Tasman eight times with the release of the Forward Movement EP. The band have added members since its formation, currently featuring Jonathan Crayford (keyboards) and Aaron Bush (percussion).
Cornerstone Roots have supported some heavyweight reggae acts including Burning Spear, Toots and the Maytals, Sly and Robbie with Michael Rose, Jimmy Cliff, Lee "Scratch" Perry and Mad Professor. They have also recorded tracks with Ranking Joe & Big Youth.
Discography
One Fine Day EP, 2001
Soul Revolution album, 2002
Forward Movement EP, 2004
Free Yourself album, 2007
