The Latest Assouline Book, Jamaica Vibes, Is Out Now And We’re Loving It!
If you’re reading this, your coffee table is probably cool enough for this book. Make sure you have ample surface area without too much clutter. You’ll probably want some snacks in arm’s reach, and you’ll definitely want a coaster for your drink—your Blackwell rum cocktail. We recommend the GoldenEye, Black N Ginger, or maybe the Nutty Cocoa!
When your coffee table is all ready, peel open the newest classic from Assouline—Jamaica Vibes. Jamaica Vibes is an in-depth, beautifully designed book that dives deep into the history, culture, and influence of Jamaica through storytelling and stunning photography.
Jamaica as an island nation in the Caribbean has had a major influence around the globe for decades, through its music, food, traditions, and culture. This new one-of-a-kind book gives you a close-up look at the jerk-scented, reggae-playing, palm-covered paradise.
There is no other place in the world quite like Jamaica. Its vibrant culture and its contagious spirit are truly one of a kind. That might be the reason so many people are drawn to the island every year, and why some visitors like Ian Fleming made it home.
Originally from England, Fleming spent most of his adult life in Jamaica, during which he crafted the legendary character James Bond. The inspiration Jamaica gave Fleming brought Bond to life. Jamaica Vibes dives deep into his Jamaican love story and many others.
Jamaica's influence goes so far beyond James Bond and Bob Marley’s music. However, you can’t discuss Jamaica without bringing up the island's most enduring legend. His songs are still played daily in every corner of the world.
Something about Bob’s music struck a deep and lasting chord, and although he sadly passed on far too soon, he will always be one of history’s most influential musicians. His legacy is undeniable, and his music continues to remind the world that we are connected as one people, with one love.
Reggae music’s roots run deep throughout Jamaica's history, as they do with Blackwell Rum, founded by the icon Chris Blackwell. Before starting Blackwell Rum, Chris built the iconic Island Records from the ground up. Along the way, he was able to work with legends like Bob Marley, U2, and Grace Jones.
Upon induction, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame credited him with being "The single person most responsible for turning the world on to reggae music." His influence in the music industry, his taste, and his aesthetic were all shaped by the island's magnetic, pulsing energy.
Chris’s influence in music is undeniable, and now he’s also behind one of the very best Jamaican Rums you can find anywhere. Blackwell Rum, founded by Chris in 2008, is the type of quality product we’ve grown used to Chris being behind. Only now, instead of it being a new song that you can’t stop playing, it’s a chilled cocktail that is dangerously delicious.
As Chris shared in a recent interview with the Guardian, “I’m interested in what’s different.” This entrepreneurial way of thinking helps to explain his involvement in the new Jamaica Vibes book, a one-of-a-kind coffee table book that brings Jamaica into your living room. Chris wrote the forward for this new book, explaining his connection to the island, and how it’s influenced his work in both the music and rum industry.
He shares his story and invites you to continue reading to understand the story of Jamaica itself on a deeper vibration. It’s a book with the melody of Bob’s music, the cool of James Bond, the flavor of Blackwell Jamaican rum, and the vibrant energy of this iconic island nation.
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