Review: The Blue Beat players step up to Japan's Green Union label with a pair of heavily ska-influenced and uptempo reggae rockers. 'Scootering On!' taps into that scene's love of a Lambretta and the joys that day rides bring, all with twisted guitar lines and some big, body brass energy. On the flip, 'Marseille Soleil' is a more subdued sound with warm, smeared organ chords, more lazy and gentle horn work and a rhythm that sways to and fro on fat dub undercurrents. Two lovely cuts on a very nice 7".
Boss Capone Meets Keith Rowe - "Will You Still Be My Girl Tomorrow" (2:53)
Boss Capone - "Trouble Town" (3:31)
Review: Boss Capone from The Upsessions collaborates with Keith Rowe of the legendary Jamaican duo Keith & Tex on this new release which is well worth hearing. The A-side features a love-inspired rocksteady gem while the flip offers a roots-oriented banger. Boss Capone shared his experience of making this one, saying "I recorded a song called 'My Girl Tomorrow.' I was struggling with it and wanted a voice full of soul. Keith kindly added his vocals, completing the beautiful puzzle." Each copy includes a recycled paper insert and both of these tunes will remind of summer with their earth rhythms and laidback, dusty drums.
Review: Robert Dubwise Browne's remake of Bob Marley's classic 'Could You Be Loved' offers a fresh and vibrant take on the timeless track. Featuring strong female vocals on the hook, this version leans heavily into a rich rhythm section, bringing a new energy to the beloved song. The remake is both classy and respectful, capturing the essence of the original while adding its own flair. On the flip side, the dub version strips things down, transforming the track into a cool, atmospheric rendition that highlights the instrumental depth. Browne's production shines throughout, making this release a standout for fans of reggae and dub alike. It's a glorious tribute with modern touches that breathe new life into a classic.
Review: The first in the Reggae 45 Series, Cheeba's Reggae Sound Boys reimagines classic Jamaican sounds from the 60s and 70s, blending them with fresh beats, samples and FX for a modern twist. Expect skanking breaks and deep, dubwise grooves that serve as a nod to reggae's roots while pushing boundaries. This release delivers both nostalgia and innovation, capturing the spirit of classic reggae with a unique edge, designed to keep the energy high and the vibes flowing for fans of the genre.
Review: Timeless digital roots and dub from The Disciples here featuring the late Jamaican singer Creation Stepper, who i most famously well known for his iconic 70s roots reggae classics. This release includes a fresh take on Stepper's 1978 track, 'Kill Nebuchadnezzar' and it is paired with another vocal gem, 'Ozone Layer,' plus two powerful dub versions. Originally mixed and produced by Russ D in The Disciples' studio in 1991, this music finally saw the light of day in 2011 on the Disciples Vintage label where it quickly sold out. Now back on a great sounding 12", this is a must for roots and dub heads.
Junior Dell & The D Lites - "Skinhead Vibration" (2:35)
Woodfield Rod Allstars - "The Mighty Big Ben Silekta" (2:40)
Woodfield Rod Allstars - "Brixton Rumble" (2:44)
Woodfield Rod Allstars - "I Raggazzi" (2:18)
Review: London's Original Gravity is a bastion of top notch dub and reggae and has been for a while. For their next outing they round up some of their best bits on a new compilation series they are rightly calling Boss Sounds. Volume 1 is a doozy that opens with label regulars Junior Dell & The D Lites and Woodfield Road Allstars. 'Skinhead Vibration' kicks things off with singing organ chords over slow, ska-tinged drums with plenty of sweet fills and a lively vocal up top. The Allstars then drop the more wobbly and funky number, 'The Mighty Big Ben Silekta' and two further jams on the flip that keep the riddims rolling.
Review: Junior Dell & The D-Lites are one of reggae's most accomplished outfits and they have a vast arsenal of tunes to back that up. This one is one of many delightful dubs - and it now makes its way to us via Original Gravity. 'East Of Hurghada' has a noodling melodic lead and nice dusty drums with a more textured horn eventually taking the main stage. On the flip, Woodfield Rd Allstars step up with 'Lickle Fat Mattress' which is another blend of ska, reggae and dub with some natty keys.
Review: The latest release from Peckings Records features two classic tracks that exemplify the golden era of reggae. On the A-side, Alton Ellis and Phyllis Dillon deliver a heartfelt rendition of 'I'm Just A Guy,' showcasing their harmonious vocals and timeless appeal. The B-side presents Joya Landis's 'I Love You Baby,' a soulful tune that complements the A-side's emotive tone. This 7" single is a must-have for collectors and reggae enthusiasts, offering a nostalgic journey into the rich musical heritage of the genre.
Review: The 7" release of 'Free Ma'n by the Ethiopians and 'Shanty Town' by Soul Brothers on Studio 1 is a must-have classic for reggae lovers. These two heavy hitters are beautiful standout from the early days of the legendary Studio One in Jamaica, and were first related back in 1966. The tunes perfectly embody the raw, soulful sound of Jamaican ska and rocksteady of the era with vocal depth and effortless dub warmth. The Ethiopians are known for their socially conscious lyrics and deliver a powerful performance on 'Free Man', while the Soul Brothers back them with Studio 1's signature mix of jazzy brass, syncopated rhythms and laid-back bass.
Review: Otis Gayle and Robert Dubwise Brown come together for this superb new 7" on Vortex Japan. It's a glorious cover of an already glorious original tune. Their version of 'I'll Be Around' leaves the originals feel-good melodies in place but works them into a lover's rock rhythm with gentle but sunny percussion and a heartfelt re-sung vocal. It's buttery smooth and good for the soul. On the flip is a dub vocal version that is even more laid back and deep, with fleshy bottom ends and wiggling bass.
Review: Kodama & The Dub Station Band is fronted by the talented dub trumpeter Kazufumi Kodama and together they recently presented their new cover album, COVER Song Collection featuring a selection of their versions of popular songs that they often call upon in their live performances. They have all been meticulously recorded in the studio and now one of them, inspired by Bob Marley's masterpiece 'Is This Love,' gets cut to 7". It finds Kodama transforming the classic into a vibrant instrumental rendition that captures Marley's positive vibes while offering a fresh take on the rhythms.
Review: Fresh off the back of a whole album of majestic covers, Kodama aka talented dub trumpeter Kazufumi Kodama and The Dub Station Band are serving up a selection of them on 7" singles. After Bob Marley's 'Is This Love' comes a fresh rendition of 'You've Got A Friend' which is another lovely blend of dub and reggae. With vibrant instrumentation and real rhythmic depth, the group breathes new life into the beloved Carole King song and emphasises a warm, uplifting atmosphere that invites listeners to connect with its heartfelt message of friendship and support. Bliss.
Review: Sofia Manari and Inokasira Rangers are not strangers to working together on their own unique covers of some classic sounds, all reworked into fresh dub grooves. This time they turn their focus to 'First Love, which is a lush listen with Manari's soothing and sultry vocal delivery. On the flip is another laid-back dub sound with a constant rhythmic pulse, natty chords and more clean and soulful vocals from Manari making this a sweet little 7" from Japan's finest, Parktone.
Review: This Rudy Mills classic was originally released in 1969 on the rare UK Pama subsidiary label, Crab. The production was handled by Derrick Harriott and pairs some signature reggae rhythms with breezy guitars and warm organs. On the flipside, this reissue features a rendition of Otis Redding's 'Wholesale Love' that is short at just over two minutes, but seriously sweet, with lovestruck vocals over a wobbly dub low-end. Each Aggrobeat single includes a sleeve note insert along with photos which offer a nice glimpse into the music's history and the visual culture surrounding it.
Review: This is the official reissue of a rare Rudy Mills 7" originally released in the UK as Crab20 in 1969. The second of two Rudy Mills singles from that year, it was produced by Derrick Harriott and issued on the iconic Crab label but soon became hard to find and expensive. This reissue from Aggrobeat kicks off with 'Tears On My Pillow' with is a yearning vocal over mid tempo dub and nicely plucked guitar strings while a meandering melody transfixes your gaze. 'I Am Trapped' is similarly soul drenched and laid back reggae with a classic edge.
Review: Night Owls are back with a fresh take on Lee Moses' 1970s cut Got That Will, transforming the soul classic into a dancehall-inspired banger. Dan Ubick leads the production, bringing in powerhouse vocalist Gina Murrell and the tight rhythm section of Wilder, Colie, and Rivas to infuse the track with new life. As if that wasn't enough, Kingston's Ranking Joe adds his signature toasting, giving the track an extra layer of authenticity and drive. The B-side, Got That Dub, takes things deeper with Roger Rivas on the mix, dialing up the echo and delay to create a spaced-out, dubbed-up version. With steady radio play on BBC Radio 6 and KCRW, this release is already making waves. DJs and collectors will want to act fastithis record is primed for late-night sound system sets and is sure to fly off the shelves.
Review: In 2024, over 30 years after its release, Incognito's 1991 hit 'Crazy For You' has been reimagined by ONEGRAM with a stunning new arrangement. It brings out the soul with gorge vocals and lazy dub drums providing a perfect counterpoint. The B-side brings a vibrant twist featuring a groovier rhythm, ONEGRAM's signature horn section and lively steel pan melodies that blend Caribbean disco and reggae vibes. Adding to the fun, the ET Edit on the B-side is tailored for DJs and enhanced with tasteful effects for an energetic finish. This fresh take breathes new life into a beloved classic that showcases ONEGRAM's infectious sound.
Tarrus Riley - "Love Is Stronger Than Pride" (4:10)
Dean Fraser - "Love Is Stronger Than Pride" (version) (4:13)
Review: If you're in the mood for some gently summery reggae-soul to warm you on cold winter nights, we'd heartily recommend this tidy new single from Tarrus Riley, son of legendary Jamaican vocalist Jimmy Riley. 'Love is Stronger Than Pride' is breezy, musically positive and gentle, with Riley delivering a slick and emotive lead vocal over a backing track rich in toe-tapping reggae grooves, subtle organ motifs, twinkling synth sounds and, most surprisingly, some rather lovely Spanish guitar motifs. It comes accompanied by a flipside 'Version' mix that's not all that dubbed-out, but nevertheless does a great job in showcasing the track's sunny and heart-warming instrumentation.
Review: A slice of Daft Punk covers levity from Sokabe Keiichi & Inokasira Rangers for Park Tone Records on 7" vinyl. Here the Japanese rocker and his fellow band the Inokasira Rangers lay down an unheard-of instrumental rocksteady rollick, against which the vocal core of Daft Punk's 'One More Time' is overlaid, as seamless in feel as a freshly fined cloth on a varnished coffee table. The track also comes backed by the original Hammond triller 'Boku No Siawase', a ploddier reggae treat in stereo, against whose offbeat rummage Keiichi's voice glides in the manner of a beautiful bird's call.
Review: Peckings presents a stunning reissue here for lovers of roots and reggae. This 45rpm features The Three Tops and the legendary Alton Elli who is one of reggae's most cherished voices. On the A-side here, 'Do It Right' showcases The Three Tops' silky harmonies over a classic rocksteady rhythm and delivers a pure golden-era Jamaican vibe that takes you there in an instant. The flip side offers Alton Ellis' soulful and heartfelt rendition on a tune that solidifies his status as a reggae don. Both tracks exude real charm even now all these years on and are worthy additions to any box of 7" heat.
Review: Ticklah (Victor Axelrod) is best known for his likely copyrightable fusion of reggae and salsa musics, and this tenth anniversary special edition of his flagship single demonstrates it as much. Originally released on NYCT in 2014, this previously sought-after pressing is actually a reinterpretation and cover version of Willie Colon and Hector Lavoe's Nuyorican dance classic 'El Dia De Suerte'. Ticklah's version is an adeptly bottomless mix; its vocals soar above like overdubbed parliaments of birds in song, while Axelrod's walloping guitar is heard scooping away in the right ear channel. 'Mi Sonsito' errs more salsa, re-rendering Eddie Palmieri's 2007 album cut 'Mi Sonsito'.
Review: Dutchess returns with Folk Song, a two-track dub release featuring the talents of Tony and Howie alongside the legendary Phyllis Dillon. Known for curating rare gems, Dutchess continues to deliver high-quality vinyl for lovers of classic reggae and dub. With past releases from icons like Eric Monty Morris and Tommy McCook, the label has solidified its reputation as a source for top-tier Jamaican music. Folk Song follows this tradition, blending soulful vocals with deep, atmospheric dub. Fans of Alton Ellis, The Melodians and The Paragons will find this release a perfect addition to their collection. It's another must-have for those who appreciate the timeless sound of 60s and 70s Jamaican music.
Review: Dennis Brown's No Man Is An Island is a prime example of the reggae legend's emotive vocals and unmatched delivery. His voice, laden with warmth, effortlessly conveys the song's message of self-reliance, bolstered by Studio 1's signature rhythmic backdrop. The track's production features tight drum patterns and rolling bass, creating a captivating groove that allows Brown's soulful performance to shine. On the flip, 'Going To A Ball' brings a change of pace, with its lively horns and upbeat tempo, showcasing his versatility. Both tracks capture the essence of Brown's contribution to reggae, marking him as one of the genre's most enduring and influential figures.
Review: The Dynamics honour Jamaica's musical legacy with Drag'n'Fly, their third album, transforming classics with reggae, soul and funk. Like the 1960s tradition of ska and rocksteady reshaping US soul hits, they take songs from all genres - pop, country, jazz - and infuse them with island rhythms. Mounam, Steve Levi, and Mr Day lead the charge with their distinct vocals, while Fab Master Flab weaves futuristic echoes through roots instrumentation. From reimagining ESG's minimal pop to turning Pharoah Sanders' 'You Got To Have Freedom' into a dub anthem, Drag'n'Fly is an irresistible mix, destined for stereos and spicy dancefloors alike.
Review: Alton Ellis has been a reggae legend since the 1950s when he first started the work that would come to shape the genre and inspire generations with his artistry and innovation. Known for his versatility in the studio, Ellis continually evolved and produced many timeless classics and his 1980 release, Many Moods Of, remains a landmark album. It shows his roots period with heartfelt emotion and masterful songwriting defining each tune with a stellar lineup of musicians and producers embodying the peak of reggae's most soulful years. Critically acclaimed upon release, the album's rich, powerful sound is just as potent now over 40 years later.
Review: After the passing of reggae icons Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, South Africa's Lucky Dube rose to prominence as one of the world's most celebrated reggae artists and was known for his powerful stance against apartheid and electrifying global performances. Prisoner is often considered his greatest work and it now gets a special 60th anniversary edition reissue. Featuring socially-driven tracks like 'War and Crime' and 'Prisoner' alongside uplifting songs such as 'Jah Live' and 'Remember Me' they all showcase his unique vocal style. This special 60th Anniversary Edition LP includes original South African artwork, two previously unreleased bonus tracks, a lyric insert and rare photos of the legendary Lucky Dube.
Review: The debut album by The Melodians is a rare 1970 release that offered up the smooth, effortless vocals of the iconic Jamaican reggae supergroup which was formed by Tony Brevett, Trevor McNaughton and Brent Dowe. Focused on their collaboration with legendary producer Leslie Kong, this newly remastered album features ten of their most beloved tracks for Beverley's Records. The title track, 'Rivers of Babylon' was made famous by Boney M and was a favourite of Jimmy Cliff as well as appearing in his film The Harder They Come. This album is essential listening for early reggae lovers.
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