Some of our favourite longplayers.
Creation Rebel - Historic Moments Vol II - On U - 1994
Some albums have the ability to transport the listener to another place, this masterpiece takes the listener to another universe. Adrian Sherwood deconstructs the rhythms on Creation Rebel’s Starship Africa Lp and builds them back up in a brutal style, pushing every track to the limits yet keeping things accessible. There is not another dub album like this on the planet (if there is we have yet to find it).
The Bug - Action Park (Maxi CD) - Rephlex - 2004
A lone wolf whose managed to create a style of his own and producer few can rival when it comes to unleashing skull smashing sonics. Although he’s released some genius albums (Pressure and the more recent London Zoo) with some choice collaborators it’s this release and the versions contained within that really focus on his ability to create dancefloor killers using the sparest of ingredients. As fans of Jungle and Drum n Bass he’s up there with Dillinja (and there is no higher compliment than that).
Rod Taylor - Ethiopian Kings 1975-80 - Patate - 1999
Brilliant selection of Rod Taylor’s output. Quality vocals throughout (similar to Horace Andy) and backed by some serious riddims courtesy of The Revolutionaries, Soul Syndicate and Roots Radics. With Mikey Dread, Far-I and Betram Brown behind the desk this is a sure fire winner. “In The Right Way” and “Ethiopian Kings” are two anthems second to none but the remainder of the tracks are all up there quality wise.
Rodigan’s Dub Classics Volume 1 - Rewind Selecta - 1996
For an introduction into the world of dub, this is one of the best compilations around, focusing on ‘the golden age’ (70’s to early 80’s). Vintage dubs from the three giants:Tubby, Jammy & Scientist.
Tenor Saw - Fever - Blue Mountain - 1989 (Originally 86)
Seminal release and one which has helped preserve the legacy (together with his classic “Ring The Alarm”) of Tenor Saw after his tragic death in 1988. This album is classic early dancehall: simple melodies, classic riddims and driving basslines together with catchy lyrics sung in his own unique ‘airy’ style. “Lots of Sign” is one track in particular we keep coming back to over and over and clearly strikes a chord with many who’ve heard it due to the numerous covers in recent years.
King Tubbys Soundclash Dubplate Style Part 1 & 2 - Firehouse - 1988
Coming in two parts on vinyl the second disc being the dub counterpart (a cd collects them both). This is digital murderation firehouse style. More than matching anything Jammy put out at the time, the rhythms used are heavier and more kicking. Throw in some proper burial business and you have two essential digital albums.
Ashtech - Walkin’ Target - Interchill - 2007
A crossover album that appeals to fans of electronica, dubstep and dance as much as the reggae / dub devotee. Runs the full spectrum of moods from blissed out dub workouts to dancefloor smashers and everything in between. Leftfield’s Cheshire Cat provides vocals for four of the cuts and it’s these we are drawn to the most.
From Chapter To Version - 20 Reggae DJ Classics - Jamaican Gold - 1998
As the title says 20 Deejay Classics, all recorded prior to 74. What makes this superior to most other compilations is that there is not a duff track in sight plus quite a few tracks from lesser known artists from the Studio One, Treasure Isle & Federal Stables.
Junior Byles & Friends, 129 Beat Street, Ja-man Special 1975-1978 - Blood & Fire - 1998
One of our favourite releases from the ever dependable Blood & Fire camp. This compilation brings together deep roots from the little known Ja-man label covering the years 1975-78. Thumping basslines coupled with some superlative vocals make this a must for any fan of roots. The track “One People” is something of an anthem round this neck of the woods with it’s call for unity and spiritual devotion.
Junior Dan - Junior Dan - Honest Jon’s Records - 2009
Since discovering Junior Dan we’ve made it a mission to bag everything he’s released. Honest Jon’s have just released a collection of his output on his Hi-Try label which is a brilliant place to start. Deep, quality roots from the seventies, ‘Look out for the devil’, is one of the finest songs ever committed to wax.
Hugh Mundell - Africa Must Be Free By 1983 - Sanctuary - 1978
Another Jamaican talent struck down in his prime. Voiced and penned when he was only 16, it’s the perfect combination of Mundell’s falsetto (once heard never forgotten) and Pablo’s production that make this such a touch-stone record. True rasta thoughts and vibes carried from beginning to end. This album collects together the vocals and dubs (which are every bit as good.)
Uptempo Collection: The Posse - JFC Music
Killer compilation from the Uptempo record label founded by Sugar Minott and Steve King. Nuff early dancehall bombs on here, many still flying the roots flag. Essential.
Robert French - Showcase - Lord Koos Records
The sound recording is far from perfect, only 6 tunes with dubs (incorrectly labelled on the sleeve) and no sleeve notes - so why big this up? It’s the combination of the sweetest vocals against a backdrop of pummeling Channel One rhythms (Sly & Robbie in full effect) that make this such a scorcher. ‘Problems’ in particular is one of those tracks you hear once and just can’t get out of your head - beautiful stuff.
Fredlocks - Black Star Liner - Vista Sounds - 1977
Black Star Liner adopts a lighter more melodic approach than many of the heavier and more challenging roots sets from the same era and it’s this that makes it so standout. Instantly catchy melodies provide the perfect backdrop for cultural themes sung in a truly unique and impassioned manner.
David Jahson - Roots Of David - Pick A Skill - 1997
Excellent compilation spanning 20 years (1975-96) from much overlooked roots singer David Jahson. Although the rhythm tracks change to accomodate the favored styles of the time, the message and quality of vocals remain throughout. The majority of tracks were cut at Channel One with the production credits reading like a who’s who of reggae.
King General - Re encounters The Bush Chemists - C. Sounds - 2009
After an absence of over ten years King General reunites with the Conscious Sounds massive, for what is our release of the year so far. Digital roots just doesn’t get better than this - the finest rhythms (inna 80’s style) accompanied by one of our favourite vocalists. ‘Broke Again’ and ‘Got To Be Conscious’ are two sure shots that join the rest of the anthems this collaboration have produced.
Sir Collins Music Wheel Chapter 1 & Peace and Love - Collins Music - 1973/2009
Two huge reissues from the seventies outta The Sir Collins Stable. Reminds us of classic Scratch with a similar mix of general mentalness and sublime melody. It’s the instrumentals and dubs we’re drawn to the most - plenty of woodwind being thrown down giving the tunes a haunting and often mystical vibe. Two truly unique records. Essential.
