Back in stock: Reggae

Review: Washington DC-based label People's Potential Unlimited is one of those that seems to have an endless supply of magical sounds that all very much fit with its MO and are all pretty unique. Often times that is down to the smart digging of the owners who unearth plenty of treasures for reissuing but this time out it is a new record from a contemporary outfit, TAMTAM. The four piece band formed in Tokyo and started making reggae and dub before moving on to jazz, soul, new age and psych-pop. They bring subtle euphoria to what they do as well as catchy grooves and nostalgic melodies as exemplified here on this mature new work that will be lapped up by fans of Khruangbin.

Notes: · This deluxe 200 page hardback 12”x12”book
features hundreds of stunning full size record
cover designs from the legendary Studio One
Records.
· Described by Chris Blackwell as The University Of
Reggae, Studio One is by far the most important
record label in the history of Reggae music, an A-Z
of Jamaican music as iconic as Motown was to
soul, or Blue Note for Jazz.
· The book features classic artwork from Bob Marley
And The Wailers, Horace Andy, Alton Ellis, Freddie
McGregor, The Skatalites, Marcia Griffiths, Burning
Spear, The Heptones, Toots and the Maytals and
many more artists all of whom launched their
careers at Studio One.
· As well as many classic sleeves there are
numerous rare designs, including a collector’s
section featuring many alternate, silkscreen and
rarely seen designs.
· As Jamaica approaches the 50th anniversary of
independence, this stunning deluxe book is a
timely look at Reggae music’s legendary record
label and the artists and musicians that it made
famous.
· The book also features an introductory essay by
Steve Barrow (author of ‘Rough Guide To Reggae’)
and is edited by Stuart Baker (Soul Jazz Records).

Review: You don't get dubbed The Originator for nothing: U Roy was a real reggae pioneer almost from the moment he burst onto the Jamaican scene in the early 19070s. He was an early pioneer in the vocal style known as toasting, which also had an influence on the earliest days of ra across the water in America. His fourth full length album Natty Rebel has not been in print for 30 years but now the 11 bouncy cuts produced by Tony Robison are back on wax once more. Next tot he reggae rollers are some special disco-tinged grooves such as 'Have Mercy' and 'Go There Natty' to make this all the more essential.

Review: Soul Jazz Records marks the 18th anniversary of this seminal album with a stunning limited-edition red vinyl reissue for Record Store Day 2025. Fully remastered and expanded with new tracks, the compilation dives deep into the early '90s roots of jungle, ragga and drum & bass and coms on strong from the off with enre-defining anthems like General Levy's 'Incredible,' Cutty Ranks' 'Limb By Limb' and Congo Natty's take on 'Under Me Sensi'. They all make it a high-energy trip through a revolutionary moment in UK music and this version comes with extensive liner notes, interviews and rare photos making it both a crucial historical document and an essential listen.

Review: From a young age, Delroy Wilson's exceptional talent was evident, blending the styles of US soul singers like Bill Withers into the Jamaican rocksteady and lovers rock scenes. His classic Studio 1 album, originally released in 1969, is brimming with soulful reggae tunes, including a funky rendition of 'Broadway.' This album perfectly captures the feel-good essence of ska, rocksteady, and bluebeat, infused with soul and heart. The seamless connection between swing, soul, and traditional island rhythms is palpable, making every song a heartfelt sing-along experience. As Delroy Wilson transitioned smoothly from ska into rocksteady, this album showcases his growth as one of reggae's most celebrated vocalists from the early 60s through the 90s. Highlights include 'Can't Stand It,' 'I Love the Way You Walk', 'Money Love', 'Your Love is Amazing' and the timeless 'Don't Know.' Despite the chaotic nature of his discography, this album stands out for fans of soulful, funky rhythms, offering a concise glimpse into Wilson's enduring musical legacy.

Review: Amy Winehouse had many talents even beyond the jazz sounds she was so famous for. The troubled soul had a live magnetism like few others and tapped into the greats while adding her own smoky style to whatever she sang. Next to her well-known albums such as Back to Black, she also took part in several recording sessions in which she covered some of her favourite ska and reggae tracks. Now a selection of them have been put together for this new album The Ska & Reggae Collection: Studio on 2Tone. The likes of Alton Ellis and Jools Holland feature and help make this a great reminder of what a talent she was.