Beres Hammond @ The Mann Center.

Jamaican reggae/soul singer Beres Hammond took the stage Sunday at The Mann Center just before headliner Jimmy Cliff played at the Reggae in the Park festival but gauging by the crowd’s reaction to Hammond, you’d think he was the star of the day.

Hammond had the crowd dancing from the very first song, and many in attendance had been at The Mann all day – the festival started at 12:30. Among those who performed were Steppin’ Razor, Inna Sense (which has roots in Philly), 9Tomorrow, Trevor Hall and Luciano.

Despite the 90 degree heat, there was a large crowd that flowed far up the grassy hill (and there were a few folks beyond the gates, listening in lawn chairs just outside of the official Mann grounds).

Hammond bounced, kicked and jumped around the stage while performing some of his greatest hits, some of which date back to the 70s. He danced and flirted with the crowd, leaving them buzzing after his hour-plus long set.