Hutchinson - File

IN A TIME when the prevalence of American culture seems to be threatening Jamaican identity, Joan Andrea Hutchinson continues her stand as a sentinel of the country's traditions.

A long-time proponent of the retention of African-based aspects of Jamaican culture, Hutchinson has released Jamaican Proverbs ... Pretty and Proud.

As the title suggests, the CD is a collection of sayings passed down through generations, each accompanied by amusing explanations delivered with Hutchinson's trademark wit.

Thirty-eight tracks comprise this offering from the self-described "rural-minded city girl".

Undercurrent of humour

There is also a song promoting the use of Jamaican proverbs, not only to keep the culture alive, but as a way to understand life's complexities.

Underneath it all runs an undercurrent of humour, which entertains as well as underscores the positive perspective that has brought many a Jamaican through good times and bad.

The preservation of 'things Jamaican' clearly holds high importance for Hutchinson, who has already released two books (Inna Mi Heart: Jamaican Love Poetry and Meck Mi Tell Yuh) and six recordings, all centred on Jamaican poetry and prose.

She points to the children of this country - exemplified by those in her immediate circle - as the driving force behind her commitment to keep interest in the country's culture alive.

Hutchinson has appeared in plays - several of which she has co-written - and presented on Caribbean language at internationalconferences.

She produced folklorist Louise 'Miss Lou' Bennett's last major recording.

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