Review: A long-standing figure on the London jazz scene, trumpeter Harry Beckett kept his music fresh over a long career, and none more so than on his debut On-U Sound release in 2008 produced by Adrian Sherwood, which invites reggae and dance music influences to happily live alongside his modal jazz flavours. Now reissued posthumously, The Modern Sound Of Harry Beckett tracks the legacy of this contemporary jazz eminent, who passed away in 2010. Beckett channels both his Caribbean roots and trumpeting abilities, offering a novel confounding of sparse, skittish beats verging on digidub, with spryly slick soundings of the horn. Made up of isolated recordings laid down by Beckett, and then celebratedly combined with dancehall and dub movements afterwards, our fave has to be the unabashedly dubstep godsend, 'Like You Didn't Know', which spreads Beckett's horns out to virtuosic effect, against a wickedly womping wash.
Review: Death Is Not The End's 333 series reissues the exceptional original cut of the late Hortense Ellis' wonderful 'Hell & Sorrow' here. It was originally produced by Jimmy Radway and released on his Fe Me Time label in the mid-1970s and remains a popular joint on the sound system circuit. Here this most classic track is paired with the iconic DJ counteraction 'Tribulation' by Big Youth, which offers a compelling glimpse into reggae's rich history while also laying down a nice fat rhythm.
Review: Sade's Lovers Rock marks a significant evolution in the band's sound and image. Departing from their signature luxuriance, the album embraces a sparser, knottier sound that beautifully balances past influences with contemporary trends. Adu's vocals, thick and low as ever, blend seamlessly into the breezy landscape of acoustic guitar, reggae bass, and simple percussion, creating an atmosphere of understated sensuality. The album's themes range from new love to motherhood to societal issues, showcasing Adu's lyrical prowess and her ability to navigate the complexities of human emotions. Lovers Rock also pays homage to the cultural influence of Caribbean Britishness, both in its title and its musical style, adding depth to Sade's sonic palette. While the album was released amid a pop landscape dominated by shiny, slick productions, Sade remained true to their sound, avoiding obvious trends and opting for a more introspective approach. The album's impact reverberates through contemporary music and allowed Sade to maintain their unique identity and continue evolving with each release.
Prince Alphonso & The Fever - "Malostran-Ska" (2:42)
Junior Dell & The D Lites - "Remember To Forget" (2:51)
Woodfield Rd Allstars - "Beseda Blues" (2:43)
Review: The superb Original Gravity label is back with more OG reggae brilliance and ska classics. This second volume of Ska Fever kicks off with a big stepper from Junior Dell & The D Lites in the form of 'Rude Girl' while Prince Alphonso & The Fever bring big playful brass to 'Malostran-Ska' and Junior Dell & The D Lites then return on the flipside of this 7" with 'Remember To Forget' which picks up the pace and is built on a hardcore rhythm. The legendary Woodfield Rd Allstars shut things down with a more melancholic vibe on 'Beseda Blues.'
Red (feat Joe Peng, Joe Burn & Trafic - X-Amnt 2023 remix) (3:08)
Review: Laid Blak, the Bristol-based collective known for their genre-blending reggae sound, are back with a limited-edition release that's bound to excite fans. This strictly limited Trans Red 7" vinyl features the iconic track 'Red' from their debut album Red & Blak. Originally released in 2012, 'Red' has become a festival anthem, celebrated for its infectious chorus, "My eyes are red, I been burning!" Laid Blak's evolution from a studio project led by DJ Bunjy and MC Joe Peng into a powerful live act is well-documented. Their sound is a vibrant mix of dancehall, roots, ska, and hip-hop, with hints of jungle, bhangra and soul. The first side of this release introduces a fresh jungle remix by DJ Bunjy and DJ Kickback's side project, X-AMNT, offering a new take on the fan-favorite track. With more remixes on the horizon, this limited 7" is not just a collector's item but a celebration of Laid Blak's enduring influence in the reggae and jungle scenes.
Review: This cracking Leroy Smart tune was recorded at Wackie's and has never been on its own 45rpm before. It was cut to the killer Love Joys' 'Studio Man' rhythm and is a mid-tempo jam with tumbling sou bass and natty chords hanging in the air above the rhythm. The vocals muse on the power of reggae music while some nice tinkles on the keys bring a bit of light to the dusty drums. Flip it over for a more paired-back dub version, 'Reggae Man.' Two timeless sounds for sure.
Review: 'Heavy Manners,' is a groovy summer jam 7" from Germany's premier reggae duo, Marcus I and aDUBta. This collaboration, influenced by US Soul and classic Jamaican Reggae, brings the Studio One vibe of the 1960s to life. Following their debut album Cut A Wire Showcase (2023), they now deliver this upbeat, flying-cymbal track that's sure to set any dancefloor on fire. On Side-2, a minimalist riddim "Version," perfect for DJs craving that authentic vibe. After nearly two decades as a reggae drummer, aDUBta has fully embraced the sounds of 60s to early 80s reggae, gaining international recognition with Sounds From The Attic. Marcus I's soulful vocals and sharp songwriting shine throughout, recorded at aDUBta's Attic Roots Studio. The single, mixed analogue on a Tascam 388, is primed for sound systems worldwide, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for this dynamic reggae team.
Review: Slowly teams up with Swish Jaguar to deliver a stunning cover of Wee's mellow soul classic 'You Can Fly On My Aeroplane.' This dreamy lovers' soul track beautifully blends vintage vibes with modern flair, featuring the talkbox talents of Swish Jaguar (aka Sam Wish), known for his work with Tuxedo. The collaboration shines with Yusuke Hirado's smooth Fender Rhodes and Tsuyoshi Kosuga's versatile guitar and bass work, creating a lush, nostalgic soundscape.Side-1's vocal track exudes warmth and elegance, perfect for setting the mood at any soul or funk set. On Side-2, the instrumental version offers DJs a versatile tool to weave into their mixes. With its impeccable musicianship and timeless appeal, this 7" bridges the gap between classic soul and contemporary groove.
Review: Caribbean contributions to British arts and culture are immense, particularly through the music brought by the Windrush generation. When the first Caribbean settlers arrived, Brits were introduced to roots music and sound system culture. In the 1970s, along Southend-On-Sea's coast, the P brothers became immersed in reggae, influenced by Jah Tubbys, Channel One, and Jah Shaka. This passion was passed down to their young prodigy, Charlie P. Charlie grew up surrounded by the sounds of Dennis Brown, Hugh Mundell, and Ranking Dread, eventually honing his talent with Goldmasters Allstars. Now, after over a decade as a 'dub controller', he reconnects with his roots through an album that honours pure, introspective reggae. Produced with Rico O.B.F and recorded with a full live band, the album features regular Prince Fatty collaborator Horseman on drums and Megahbass on bass, offering a raw, new take on traditional reggae.
Review: Linval Thompson and JonQuan follow up their acclaimed collaboration Cultivator with the roots-heavy Bound To Fall, featuring Ticklah with help at the controls. This limited edition 7"includes two new tracks, 'Bound To Fall' and 'Judgement Day,' showing off Thompson's legendary voice and conscious roots reggae style. Dub fans will appreciate the rich, authentic sound and powerful messages embedded in these tracks. With its deep grooves and masterful production, this release will be another hit for any reggae aficionado, continuing Thompson and JonQuan's tradition of creating timeless reggae music.
Review: In 1977, singer Dhaima recorded some lovely and uplifting rockers with The Professionals at Joe Gibbs's studio, and now one of them is reissued here on the Joe Gibbs Music label, complete with a dub version from The Mighty Two. First up, Dhaima's original 'Ina Jah Children' is one of those sweet rhythms that has a breezy feel and lovely sunny melodies next to a lush and soulful female vocal, all of which pay great tribute to the one and only Jah. The dub-wise flip on the B-side is 'Save The Children' and it has some more snaking bass, hissing hi-hats and a nice unhurried vibe for lazy and loud sessions.
Review: Dutch label Ghetto Cornerstone presents a new and limited 12" here that offers some high-class roots. The release features Jamaican singer Prince Alla in top form as well as dubs produced by Ray Ranking, along with an additional vocal track by Ras Ruben. They are all fine blends of classic roots reggae with fresh, dynamic elements, starting with 'Warn Them' with its flabby and wobbly low-end and happy vocal energy. Ras Ruben's 'Jah Guiding Star' on the flip is a more pained and yearning sound with a slower, more pillowy and cavernous low end.
Review: This release presents two standout, previously unreleased tracks that share the same rhythm as Singing Melody's 'Friday Evening,' so is built on a classic 1987 digital riddim. Rod Taylor's contribution on this 7" highlights his concise but powerful late '80s output, making it a key example of his impact during that era. Both tracks were recorded at the iconic Dynamic Sounds studio during a golden period for digital reggae. They capture the raw energy and authentic dancehall vibes of the time, making this release essential for lovers of vintage digital reggae.
Smells Like Teen Spirit (feat Soothsayers Horns) (3:40)
Smells Like Teen Spirit (feat Little Roy & Hollie Cook) (3:47)
Review: If you are looking at the title, you are correct! A ska cover of NIrvana's timeless grunge song! Prince Fatty delivers a unique take on the classic with the limited first press 7" 45rpm black vinyl edition. Side-1 features an instrumental ska version, energized by London's Soothsayers horn section. Side-2 brings the cover to life with the reggae vocals of Little Roy and Hollie Cook. This is LVD0009, the ninth release from Prince Fatty's Lovedub Limited, based above the Fox & Firkin in Lewisham, South London. Presented in a patterned studio sleeve, this edition is sure to to turn heads.
Review: Nkrumah Jah Thomas's label The Midnight Rock was a cornerstone of exceptional productions in early Jamaican music. As a savvy producer, Thomas maximised his rhythms and created numerous records for a variety of artists. He emerged at the perfect time and recorded breakthrough tracks in top studios like Channel One, often with the Roots Radics. While many of his sessions were released, some remained unreleased, trapped on multi-track tape. One such session featured Sugar Minott, known for his hit 'Good Thing Going.' Thomas has crafted fresh mixes from these sessions with this single addressing gun violence and featuring a vibrant Radics rhythm and a new dub on the flip side.
Review: Natsu Summer's 2024 release, Orange Tsushin (Orange Communication) was produced by Cunimondo Takiguchi of Ryusenkei and now arrives on vinyl closely after the cassette format previously. It's a vibrant fusion of danceable lovers' rock and smooth city pop enriched with amapiano and across the seven cuts includes a standout cover of a 90s Japanese lovers' rock gem that mixes blending reggae and city pop influences. Rach format features unique jacket artwork which further showcases Takiguchi's creativity. Orange Tsushin pays homage to Natsu Summer's Ehime roots and captures the essence of mandarin oranges through its music and visuals for both a fresh and nostalgic listening experience.
Review: Back in the 1970s, Boris Gardiner was digging deep and tilling his dub fields and often coming up with real treasure. This second volume of Ultra Super Dub on Now Again is a mega rare collection of work from Gardiner, a Jamaican bass player, bandleader, songwriter and singer of great repute. This is the first time this one has been reissued and it comes with great context in an extensive booklet. It is one of the landmark albums of his career so it's great to have it back in print.
Review: Talented multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, rhythm maker and producer Martin Campbell has some revered studio skills that have made him well known and love in reggae circles. He manages to capture the magical essence of what made the original 70s sounds so special in labels like the iconic Channel One, Log On and Retro Beat. His earlier work was distributed by Reggae Retro Records but now he comes through with a new tune on Log On that hits the nail on the head and has you deep in his warm drums in no time. A dub on the flip of this crucial 45 rpm takes things even deeper.
Review: A classic 7" by reggae and dancehall legend Barrington Levy returns to the equally legendary Jan Life label. Levy rose to fame in the early 1980s, but it wasn't until much later that Jah Life (founded by Hyman Wright and Percy Chin) clocked onto his talents and funnelled him into their roster. 'Black Roses' is backed up by the infamous 'Rose Dub', and both tracks romantically ruminate no the presence of a symbolically shadowy rose - "something special... got to water it!" - growing in Levy's garden.
Review: Japan's brilliantly curious but highly listenable Inokashira Ranger band has covered everything in imaginable in their storied 10-year-plus career. Now they turn to The Nolans for some buttery lovers' rock with a warm and familiar edge. 'I'm In The Mood For Dancing' biomes a rolling rhythm with bright Hammond chords and swaggering riffs. The vocal comes from Yuima Enya and is nice and sweet and soulful. 'Central Freeway' on the flip is a smiler-sounding tune with easy-going drum sways and effortless cool vocals.
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Studio One Funk(gatefold red vinyl 2xLP + MP3 download code)
Review: This legendary compilation from Soul Jazz has seen many iterations, but now it comes out in its most comprehensive glory to date, with versions on vinyl, CD and cassette in tow this January 2023. Charting the very best and funkiest tracks from the revered reggae musical imprint known as Studio One, greats from Jackie Mitto (covering Booker T & The MGs' 'Hang Em High'), Soul Bros (reinterpreting the James Bond theme tune, '007') and Alton Ellis (with the snappy reggae cut 'It's A Shame') render this a highbrow compilation of rare soundtrack cuts, originals and classics.
Review: If you're into classic mid-70s vocal roots then this one is for you. Produced by Earl Lowe aka Little Roy and Munchie Jackson with legendary outfit The Heptones, it is a timeworn back to that golden era. 'Mr T' has delightful vocal harmonies that swell the heart over the lazy reggae rhythms and noodling organ chords. On the flip side is a version that gets doused on echo and reverb and steps away some of the vocals while layering in the tumbling drums for extra heady appeal.
Review: Tapper Zukie returns with A Soulful i&i, rallying a talented lineup of reggae artists for a collection of tracks that blend a soulful touch with reggae's unmistakable groove. This set opens with Prince Alla's heartfelt delivery on 'Children Don't Cry', setting the tone for the album. Junior Ross lends his powerful vocals to 'Heaven On Earth', while the Silvertones add their rich harmonies to the poignant 'Poverty'. Tapper Zukie himself takes center stage with the reflective 'Man-A-Man', and the Viceroys counter with the soulful 'Help Me'. Dennis Walks adds depth to the mix with 'I Wanna Go', and Junior Ross reappears with the timeless 'Be On The Right Track'. Tapper Zukie's 'People of Love' reinforces the album's positive message, and Prince Alla brings a sense of righteousness with 'Good Over Evil'. The Viceroys shine once again on the majestic 'That Was The Day' while Little Roy's 'Youth In The Ghetto' wrap up this rootsy, lovers rock-inspired collection.
Bongo Ossie & The Moon Lights - "Black Society" (2:50)
Super 8 Corporation - "Black Version" (2:58)
Review: The reissue of Bongo Ossie & The Moon Lights' Black Society on Hornin' Sounds is a treasure for hardcore reggae enthusiasts. Originally from 1975, the original delivers a classic roots sound with a fantastic collaboration that resonates deeply with lovers of the genre. The timeless track exudes the soulful and socially conscious vibes characteristic of the era. On Sidde-2, 'Black Version' transforms the original into a dub version. With abundant echo effects and an engaging stop-and-start beat, this track offers a dynamic listening experience. It's perfect for DJs seeking to infuse their sets with a vintage yet innovative reggae twist.
Review: Peter Tosh's Mama Africa album, now reissued on red vinyl, features the legendary reggae artist at his finest. Combining reggae with African musical influences, the album opens with a powerful ode to the motherland in its title track. Tosh's adaptation of Chuck Berry's 'Johnny B. Goode' is another standout, blending rock guitar with a reggae rhythm and relocating the lyrics to Jamaica, further cementing his crossover appeal. The Tamlins' backing vocals enrich three tracks and Donald Kinsey's impressive guitar work is featured throughout. Tosh revisits his Wailers days with a reworked version of 'Maga Dog' and the fan-favorite 'Stop That Train'. His militancy comes through on 'Peace Treaty'. a scathing critique adorned with sound effects of gunfire. Tracks like 'Not Gonna Give Up' aim to uplift Africa's people, while 'Feel No Way' is a minimalistic rub-a-dub tune with understated backing. Tosh's unrelenting advocacy for justice and his Rastafarian beliefs permeate the album, reflecting his rebellious spirit and commitment to social equality. His solo career, following the dissolution of The Wailers in 1974, was defined by a fearless approach to music and activism, until his life was tragically cut short in 1987. Mama Africa remains one of Tosh's most significant works.
Review: Freddie McKay's Creation album, produced by Ossie Hibbert, presents a masterful fusion of original compositions and inspired covers, showcasing McKay's talent alongside reggae legends like Burning Spear and Dennis Brown. Hibbert's production expertise shines through, creating a seamless blend of classic reggae sound with subtle dub elements. The album's strength lies in its ability to breathe new life into familiar classics while maintaining the integrity of the originals. McKay's performances exude authenticity and passion, supported by skilled musicians who excel in the 'rockers' style of the seventies.
Review: The well-regarded Digital English label has got a couple of crucial 7"s dropping at the moment and this one is a standout. It's a two-sided 45rpm that opens up with Chazbo in fine form on the A-side. His gem 'Chazbo In Session' has elements of everything from dub to reggae to lovers' rock. The dub is fat and lazy, the chords are natty and the vocals are soulful and expressive up top. Flip it over and you will get a fine version from Lin Strong named 'Unity Is Strength' that brings even more soul power to the rolling rhythms.
Review: This is the debut single from Ekowmania's upcoming album Dr. Afrodub. Ekowmania, aka Ekow Alabi Savage, hails from Ghana and is the percussionist for KabuKabu and a longstanding collaborator with Jimi Tenor as well as being a founding member of one of Germany's earliest Afro-reggae bands. Titled 'Kwame Nkrumah,' it is a grand roots and reggae track produced by Jimi Tenor with tight horns, driving drums, and a compelling vocal performance supported by a majestic choir. The B-side presents a DJ Sotofett Mix, focusing on vocals, choir, and horns for a powerful choral rendition.
Review: Prince Chamba joins forces for a superb new roots cut here with Slimmah Sound and Ital Horns. Their 'Secret Light' is a smoky and seductive sound with wobbling low ends and impassioned vocals delivered with a heart-aching twist as the melanotic horns fly up top and rousing chords add some hope. Slimmah Sound & Ital Horns then add their own heavily reverbed dub version and Slimmah Sound offers 'Melody Of Light' which is full of hypnotic harmonica leads. A second dub version once again reworks it into a stoner's delight that will sink you deep into the sofa.
Mighty Two - "Lost In A Dream" (Dreaming version) (3:00)
Review: Lopez Walker is best known for his roots classics 'Jah Jah New Garden' and 'Send Another Moses' which were recorded for Roy Francis' Phase One label in the late 70s. His talent caught the attention of Joe Gibbs, who then went on to produce this sorely overlooked bluesy dance tune. The track's forlorn vocals and a haunting flute melody capture the essence of heartbreak while on the flip side, Errol Thompson delivers a stellar dub mix. It is fleshy and warm and full of trickery and is a must-hear for fans of Joe Gibbs' iconic productions from that era. Though underappreciated, this should be a hidden gem no more.
Review: The great Peter Hunningale has a much loved voice that has been on plenty of classic lovers rock and reggae gems over the years. For this one he serves up his own distinctive cover of Al Green's classic mellow songs 'Let's Stay Together' and 'I'm Still In Love With You'. The A-side, which originally became a bit hit in 1971 is reworked as a nice slow, heavy riddim with senses vocals from Hunnigale. The B-side is another buttery one with plenty of melodies form the original featuring in a new roots framework.
Review: Jahug is a brand new label that kicks off with a heavy rhythm from Carl I aka producer Carl Gayle. 'Deputy Dawg' is the tune and it has a low-slung low end that is couched in plenty of warm reverb. The vocals up top are raw and unaffected and filled with a sense of yearning. Add in some fresh hits and classic reggae guitar riffs and you have a nice fresh roots cut. On the flip, more horns are brought to the fore to give it some subtle warrior energy while extra effects and fleshy reverb all add more weight to the original.
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