F or over twenty years, members of the Jamaican harmony trio, Foundation, have used the ruins of a still-standing sugar plantation, "big house", as their practice space, faithfully rehearsing their, "words and works", amongst crumbling wall and creeping vines. Enchanting harmonies fueled by compelling lyrics echo across fields once worked by African salves. Fitting, today this setting is home to one of Jamaica's finest reggae harmony trios.

Foundation's first album, "Flames", ignited critical acclaim with its strong debut in 1988. Guided by the creative genius of the legendary Jamaican producer, Jack Ruby, "Flames", is a celebration of impeccable musicianship, one that expresses a wide range of styles and issues. The plaintive, "Just to See Love", is a heartfelt tribute to the memory and inspiration of such leaders as Marcus Garvy, Haile Selassie, Bob Marley, and Nelson Mandela. The title track, "Flames", addresses the possibility of nuclear holocaust, which today, though seemingly diminished, has by no means disappeared. Though social issues are foremost in the groups, "works", the lighter side of life is enjoyed in such tunes as, "Dance if You Dancing", - "If you feel alright say YEAH!".      Foundation's next album, "Heart Feel It", (1989) confirmed the strong artistic conviction that informed, "Flames". What the heart feels this trio reveals in their testament to personal and social struggle. Once again, the project involved some of Jamaica's finest musicians including the super rhythm duo, Sly and Robbie, along with Dean Fraser, and the late great Jackie Mittoo. "You and I", speaks to an aspiration now realized, the dismantling of the heinous system of Apartheid. "Symptoms and Signs", is a tongue in cheek compendium of Jamaican folklore. Promotion of these two albums resulted in Foundation touring Oslo, Helsinki, Stockholm, Milan, Rome, Bonn and the United States where they dazzled large audiences and enjoyed rave reviews.       Promising future came to an abrupt halt with the untimely passing of Jack Ruby. Foundation's work with Island was virtually placed on hold, a state of limbo that was to last until 1995 when they signed with Island Jamaica to produce, "One Shirt". The power of three continues unabated in this issue-oriented album that relies on silky smooth harmonies to express incisive social commentaries. Once again, Foundation's strong lyrics speak to topical issues in a timeless fashion. "Let the People Go", leaves no room for compromise in its demand for justice and freedom. "Universal Unrest", reflects the escalating worldwide conflict between the, "haves", and the, "have-nots". Leaving larger social issues aside, "Private Life", exposes everyday human feelings, reminding, "chatty-mouths", to mind their own business.       Foundation's eagerly anticipated fourth album is about to be released. Fans can expect penetrating lyrics and poignant harmonies that amply demonstrate that this trio has indeed risen to yet another level in their bid to serve as Jah's messengers. Reminding us that, "Everyone's Got to Take a Stand", Foundation never lets up in emotional intensity as they preach and exhort us to, "Find a Way", through the, "Lion's Den". Will it be, "Heavenly Love", or, "Genocide"? These are the questions Foundation asks in a CD that is truly representative of the millennium.