New York : The 2007 installment of Irie Jamboree, North America ‘s premier reggae festival proved to be another spectacular affair for the more than 30,000 music lovers who converged at the Roy Wilkins Park , Queens, New York to see international acts like Steven Marley, Jr. Gong, Morgan Heritage, Lady Saw, Munga Honorable, Beenie Man, Anthony B, Assassin and Tony Matterhorn.

When the curtain fell at 10:45pm, it was legendary musical group Morgan Heritage who delivered arguably the best performance of event. The Jamaica based, New York born group proved a force to be reckoned with, delivering classic hits like ‘Don’t Have Fe Dread To Be Rasta,” “Tell Me How Come,” “Down By The River,” “People Are Fighting,” “Set Yourself Free,” “Protect Us Jah” and their current hit Brooklyn & Jamaica that left fans in a frenzy.

When Lady Saw pranced on stage, the crowd roared in anticipation. The l egendary dancehall diva showed restrain in her song choice but still earned a positive reception from fans. High point of her set came when she called on her friend Movado, who had lighters flashing and flags waving, with his current hit ‘Wha Dem A Do.”

D’Aville w orked the crowd with his charm and had the women tumbling over themselves with “On My Mind” “Can’t Get Over You,” “This Time I Promise” and “So I’ll Wait For You” which was originally recorded by Freddy McGregor.

The ‘Doctor’ Beenieman came out roaring like an ‘Old Dog’ but was not able to duplicate his spectacular Sumfest performance. Luciano never fully connected with the legion of fans that were there to see his performance. Assassin’s performance was lively and certainly one of the best I have seen. Macka Diamond was impressive. Mr. Vegas and Mr. Easy represented well, however the artist New Yorkers gave a heroes welcome was Tony Matterhorn. Performing in a specially made alien suit and s ounding as crisp as ever, the dj engaged fans with “Dutty Wine,” “Goodas Fe Dem” and earned kudos from the massive with some of his other selections. Aside from a few risqué songs which were not quite appropriate for a family event, the Man From Mars left on a musical high.

The original fireman Anthony B came with his ball of fire and delivered a spirited, high energy, fun filled performance. Munga Honorable who was making his first major appearance in New York was one of the standout acts of the event. The Gangsta Ras ruled the stage with popular hits like “Bad From Mi Born,” “Wine Pon It,” “Bad Like I,” and “Not At All,” which were all delivered with passion and precision.

Several young, upcoming acts left an impressive mark at Irie Jamboree. Leading the charge were Etana – who proved she will be a force to be reckoned with in the near future – Jovi Rockwell, One Third, New York based acts Empress Isis, Ras David, Ras Penco, Hench Man, and Lady Ann who all performed in the opening “Give De Youth A Buss” segment.

The festival climaxed with Stephen Marley, who delivered songs from his debut album ‘Mind Control.” Midway his set he was joined by his younger brother, Jr. Gong for what proved the highlight of his performance. It was two years ago that the young ‘Gong’ delivered a stellar performance at this same venue. This year he was restrained but still stamped his authority with “Welcome to Jamrock.”

Kudos to the Team Irie Jamboree for delivering another quality event that ranks on par with the best in the world.