Howard Campbell, Gleaner Writer

The members of Chalice. - Contributed

CHALICE, the seven-piece band that burned local charts during the 1980s, is looking to make a comeback with help from some young turks.

The first phase of that comeback began two months ago when the group recorded a new version of their 1981 hit song, Good To Be There, with roots singer Tarrus Riley. The production, released by saxophonist/producer Dean Fraser's Cannon label, featured three founding members - guitarist Wayne Armond, keyboardist Alla Lloyd and bassist Keith Francis.

Armond hopes similar collaborations will introduce Chalice to dancehall fans.

"The idea behind it is to bring these songs to a new generation. At the same time, they are a lot of promoters willing to work with us but they want to hear some new stuff," Armond told The Gleaner.

Right note

Chalice aims to hit the right note in both areas. They have already updated Youthman (On The Corner) with Duane Stephenson, Stew Peas with Tanto Metro and Devonte, I'm Trying with Ernie Smith and a Nyabinghi version of Praise Him which was done with M.

Armond says eight Chalice songs will be re-recorded with guest acts for an album scheduled to be released by year-end or early 2009. The other songs will be new.

Good To Be There was one of several hits Chalice scored during a 10-year run that started in 1980 with the ballad, I Still Love You. Dancehall Philharmonic, from the Si Mi Ya album in the early 1990s, was their last popular song.

This is not Chalice's first comeback attempt. They have shelved other bids in the last six years due to involvement of members in other projects, but the group has performed on some high-profile shows during the last year including the Calabash Literary Festival, Rebel Salute and the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival.

While older fans warmed to their hits, Armond recognises the importance of being current.

Good rotation

"If we can even get a song with good (radio) rotation it would help," he said.

Chalice was formed 29 years ago when bands were still vogue in Jamaica. In addition, Armond, Lloyd and Francis, the original members were Robi Peart (vocals), Trevor Roper (guitar, vocals), Michael Wallace (keyboards) and Desi Jones on drums.

The band's current lead vocalist is Dean Stephens, who joined the band in 1993.

Working with young or established acts to put a fresh spin on classic songs has resuscitated the careers of older performers. In 1986, hot rap group Run DMC and ageing rock band Aerosmith covered the latter's 1975 hit song, Walk This Way, which marked the beginning of a remarkable second wind for the band.

In 2004, ska legend Toots Hibbert collaborated with major names including Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt, The Roots and No Doubt on the tribute album True Love. It won a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album the following year.