Bitty Mclean - movin' on

Bitty Mclean - movin' on (Taxi Silent River) 2009

This is a very smooth reggae record. I normally do not go for this sound but with Sly & Robbie handling drums and bass, and Bitty Mclean singing, I will make the exception. Seriously, while this release tends to be a little cleaner than most reggae records that I listen to, don't let that discourage you from getting this fine LP. It is not a life changer but if you are looking for something closer to the 'lovers rock' type of sound, then this one is for you. There is one straight up R&B song on here (You're Welcome, Stop On By written by Bobby Womack) and while it is not my normal cup of tea, on this record it holds up well. Other soul songs covered but given a reggae treatment are So In Love, Try A Little Tenderness, Come to Me, Daddy's Home, and Lately. There are two standout tracks on this record that roots lovers will enjoy and that is the duet with Johnny Osbourne on Jahovia and the solo, Plead My Cause. Both of these tracks would be worthy contributions to any modern roots compilation. In addition, what makes this record a keeper is that Sly & Robbie remake some older Taxi riddims for Bitty to sing over in a modern style. I won't list the riddims but you will recognize them when you hear them.

Assisting Sly & Robbie on this record are other fine JA musicians that convinced me to take this record seriously. For instance, on guitar we find players like Willie Lindo, Dalton Browne, Mikey Chung, and Dougie Bryan. Keyboards are handled by long time Sly & Robbie musical partner, Robbie Lyn. Also lending a hand on keyboards are Keith Sterling and the great Ansel Collins.

Overall, a fine reggae album. I would recommend this to novice reggae listeners as well as the wiley veteran. The serious collector will just need to accept that a smooth sounding reggae record is not always a bad thing. BUY

Ranking Joe - World In Dub

Ranking Joe - World In Dub - M Records CD 450 -2006

When I left the world of reggae music a few years ago, I missed the emergence of the "home-dubbers"( for a lack of a better term). The home-dubbers are self taught producers, arrangers, and reggae entrepreneurs. They are often also white.

If I would have been around at the beginning of their emergence, I would have been very sceptical because I would have felt that while their hearts where in the right place, the "feel" that one finds in Jamaican music would be missing. For example, listen to the "reggae" of Big Mountain. Their hit of the Peter Frampton song, "Baby I Love Your Ways", is a perfect example of what I mean. In other words, the reggae music of the home dubbers would be soft.

As I mentioned, I was not around at the beginning so I now I am able to hear the home dubbers after they had a chance to mature. Ryan Moore, the Canadian behind M Records, is one of those home dubbers that has matured very well. All in all, I have heard a few releases by Mr Moore and Twilight Circus Productions and I have walked away not only impressed but a big fan. I now consider M Records as crucial source for modern roots music. To put it simply, what sets M Records apart from others is that Mr. Moore "gets it". That is, his sense and feel for Jamaican reggae music is authentic. So, when one is listening to an M Records production, it is as if one is listening to a quality JA production. Maybe that is the highest praise I can give to Mr. Moore; his sounds are Jamaican.

On this specific recording, a dub version of Ranking Joe's World In Trouble (also on M Records), Mr Moore uses some of the best JA musicians and along with his own musical talents on bass, keys and drums. Overall, the record has some nice, crisp, and new rhythms that receive the dub treatment from Mr Moore. The record gets off to a nice start with World In Dub and the quality does not really fall from that point. One of the highlights for me is Dub Babylon since it contains just a trace of a vocal by Michael Rose.

The quality is high and sounds are tight. If you are looking for new roots music of a superior quality, please seek out Ryan Moore's material and make sure to pick up this record along the way.

Justin Hines: Travel With Love

Justin Hinds and the Dominoes - Travel With Love - Nighthawk NHCD 309 - 1984

Justin Hinds is a legendary artist who recorded during the Ska and Rock Steady eras. Releasing countless singles and recording for the likes of Duke Reid and Jack Ruby (for Island), Justin stepped away from recording for a while until the good folks at Nighthawk contacted him about recording again. This album is the fruit of those conversations. This album was recorded at Tuff Gong (Bob Marley's studio), using the Wailers' rhythm section of Family Man Barrett on bass and his brother, Carly Barrett on drums. In fact, it is one of the first things one hears on this CD (and which makes this record so comfortable and memorable) is that distinctive Carly Barrett drum roll.

For many people this record is going to sound dated. However, don't let that keep you away from enjoying this album. Dated or not, this record is good representation of what solid reggae music sounded like in the early 1980s. In fact, it was this type of sound that got me hooked on the music in the first place. Although, it should not be too surprising that this record sounds good since along with the Barrett brothers, Chinna Smith and Bingy Bunny lay down guitar duties, while Gladdy, Wire Lindo and Tyrone Downie trade up on keyboards. All top notch, first rate JA musicians.

Before discussing the actual songs, I first must comment on Justin's voice. Justin's voice is a higher register and softer than the "typical" JA voice. I enjoy his voice but it is different, especially if one is looking for a more "Burning Spear" or a "Sizzla" gruff style, for example. That said, over long periods, Justin's voice can start to sound a little thin. However, over an LP, you should be fine.

The songs are solid, standout tracks include Get Ready Rock Steady, Miss Wendell, Book of History (the first three tracks of the album). In addition, Meditation, the last song on the LP is nice as well. In general, the lyrics are conscious roots with a little love lyrics thrown in but Justin has always been more of a roots artist and he continues that here.

I was generally surprised by this CD. I had low expectations given that Nighthawk was taking an older artist and putting him in front a new generation of musicians. Sometimes these projects work and sometimes they don't. In this case it works well. This CD is solid, it is not a life-changer but I think most serious reggae music lovers will be fine with adding this to their collection. In short, this gets a recommendation. Buy

The Meditations - Deeper Roots

The Meditations - Deeper Roots: The Best of The Meditations (Heartbeat) HBCD 158 1994

Back in the day, of all of the harmony groups that were around at the time, The Meditations got the least attention from me. In part, it was due to ignorance, and it was also because much of their material was not readily available to me. One could find Wailing Souls, Mighty Diamonds, The Itals, or Israel Vibration on LP in the stores but one was hard pressed to find a Meditations release. I eventually picked up a few Meditation records on vinyl, in particular Guidance but did not play them often for some reason.

Flash forward to current time and as I am perusing releases I come across the above mentioned greatest hits package. Aside from being on Heartbeat, which guarantees a respectful and quality release, it contains a nice overview of The Meditations career up until then. Upon playing this CD for the first time (and after the sixth time!), one can only come to the conclusion that those that held The Meditations in high regard from the beginning had gotten it right from the start.

This CD contains 20 songs (including bonus tracks) that spans the entire career of The Meditations. There are 3 tracks from Wake Up (1979), 4 from Message from the Meditations (1976), 3 from Guidance (1980), a couple of 12", and some rare tracks from sessions at Black Ark with Lee Perry at the controls. The whole album is classic Jamaican reggae of the highest order.

Unlike the Mighty Diamonds, for example, who relied largely on the lead vocals of one singer, the Meditations had three singers that could all carry lead vocal duties (Ansel Cridland, Danny Clarke, and Winston Watson). In addition, each singer had a distinct method of interpreting a song. As a result, the variety of vocal styles works well along with the classic rhythms.

The CD comes with a nice booklet that provides an overview of the career and puts the music of group in context. Also, the back of the booklet provides a nice song recap that provides information on the musicians, engineers and time frame. All the key information that any reggae fanatic would want to know. While the whole album reeks of classic the best moments for me are the songs produced by Lee Perry at Black Ark (Running from Jamaica, No Peace, and Think So) as these carry some of that trademark Perry molasses mix. That is a good thing! This is classic era reggae roots music. If you are not going to hunt down the LPs, then this CD is a must have.

Track List

1. Wake Up
2. Turn Me Loose
3. Running From Jamaica
4. Having Fun
5. Miracles
6. Jungle Feelings
7. Woman Is Like A Shadow
8. Nice Time
9. Quiet Woman
10. No Peace
11. Babylon Trap Them
12. Something Looking Good
13. Groovy Situation (aka Being A Dread Is No Crime)
14. Think So (aka Much More Smarter)
15. Tricked
16. Fly Natty Dread
17. Do Mamma Do
18. Man Find It
19. What A Bam Bam (Bonus track of The Linkers with Ansel Cridland)
20. Bongo Man (Bonus track of The Linkers with Ansel Cridland)

Arc Angel's Shots Vol 5

Here is Vol 5

Arc Angel’s Shots Vol. 5 – Strictly 7” Singles

1. The Jewels – My Little Dream Love– Charcoal (1979) (DSR 9666 A)
2. The Jewels – Love Dream (DSR 9667 B)
3. The Chosen Brothers – There You Are – Wackie’s (1982) (W 974 A)
4. The Chosen Brothers – There You Are Version (W 974 B)
5. Johnny Clarke & Dennis Brown – So Much Pain– Jackpot (1975) (BL 4794 A)
6. The Aggrovators – So Much Pain Version (BL 4794 B)
7. Peter Tosh – Ketchy Shubby – Intel Diplo (1976) (DSR 3628 A)
8. Peter Tosh – Iration (DSR 3629 B)
9. Prince Allah – Too Much Killing– Freedom Sounds (1979) (BB 011 A)
10. Prince Allah – Too Much Killing Version (BB 011 B)
11. Ashanti Waugh – Love We A Deal With – Jabba Roots (1979) (DSR 1730 A)
12. Ashanti Waugh – Love We A Deal With Version (DSR 1731 B)
13. Hortense Ellis – Love Everyone – BOP Productions (1979) (RLS 1001 A)
14. Hortense Ellis – Love Everyone Version (RLS 1001 B)
15. Lloyd Parks – Ain’t Too Proud To Beg – Parks (1975) (LS 166 – B)
16. We The People Band – Part Two (BL 166 - B)
17. Carl Dawkins – I’ll Never Be Blue – Sir JJ (Blank) (1970) (Dyna JJR 2425 - 1)
18. Carl Dawkins – Instrumental Version (Dyna JJR 2426 – 1)
19. Augustus Pablo – King of The Minstrels – Rockers International (1979) (DSR 6437 A)
20. High Times Players – Black Jessie Dub (DSR 6438 B)

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Abyssinians - Satta Massagana

The Abyssinians - Satta Massagana (Heartbeat) CDHB 338







I travel a lot and so I tend to load up my ipod with albums so that I can listen to them on the plane or at airports waiting for a connection. On my last trip home I decided to listen to this old classic album for the first time in many years. You see, this particular album has been released a few times under different covers and with different track listings. A good place to see how this album has evolved over the years the interested reader should check here.

The reason why this album seems to always find an outlet is that it may be as close to a religous experience as one can find in reggae. While reggae music has crossed many borders, for me it will always carry the flag of Rastafari. That is, for me (and many others), reggae music is in large part a musical outlet for glorifying and praising Rastafari. In Satta Massagana, the Abyssinians may have released the first set of songs that could be used as church hymns. From the opening track of Declaration of Rights, through the tracks The Good Lord, Forward Unto Zion, and Know Jah Today, one can easily picture a group of people singing these songs at a Rastafarian mass. It is not just the first few songs or portions of this release that feels that way. In fact, the whole original album consistently maintains that spirit and level of quality. Other notable songs are Abendigo, Y Mas Gan, and the title track and anthem, Satta Massagana. If there ever was a roots reggae music national anthem, Satta Massagana is that song. By the way, Satta Massagana is Amharic for "give thanks".



The Abyssinians are a vocal trio that features the Manning brothers (Donald and Lynford) and Bernard Collins. While not as popular as some of the other great Jamaican trios of the time (e.g., the Mighty Diamonds or the Heptones), the Abyssinians are possibly as influential but with only a fraction of the recorded output of other vocal trios. Aside from the vocal harmonies, the Abyssinians were also much more ' mysterious' than other vocal trios in that they seemed to only release hard roots music. The Abyssinians also dressed differently as they were often seen in pictures in their turbans and robes that expressed and demonstrated their proud African heritage. Adding to the mystique was their brief, yet memorable appearance in the opening scene of the reggae movie, Rockers. It is the Abyssinians who begin to harmonize as the scratchy guitar and various drum beats lay down the rhythm for Satta Massagana.

The backing music is layed down expertly by the likes of Boo Richards, Horsemouth, and Sly Dunbar (drums), Val Douglas and Robbie Shakespeare (Bass), Chinna Smith and Mickie Chung (guitar), Tyrone Downie and Geoffrey Chung (keyboards), and Clive Hunt, a co-producer, on various horn instruments.

Aside from the original album, this release features 8 bonus tracks. This is a classic album and without being too outrageous, I can honestly state that if you do not like this album, then you do not like reggae music. Go buy this and listen to a classic roots reggae masterpiece.

Various Artists - Singerman!

Various Artists - Singerman! - Blood & Fire - BFCDS 906 - 2007

Well, Blood & Fire have been one of the premier reggae reissue labels over the last few years. With their release of Singerman!, they have compiled and made available a few cuts from the various records that they have released over the years. The purpose of this sampler is for you to become interested in a few cuts and then to go to the Blood & Fire catalog to purchase the full release. To make it even more enticing, they reduced the price of this CD to make it very affordable. So, how did they do? GO BUY THIS.

Aside from some classic roots cuts from more established artists like Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown, and Johnny Clarke, one is also treated to sounds from under appreciated singers like Michael Prophet, Linval Thompson, and Junior Byles. What is great about this sampler is that every track is a wonderful representation of vital, roots Jamaican reggae music of the late 1970s (early 1980s?). While all the cuts are good, there are a few standouts like Max Romeo's Fire Fe The Vatican, Junior Ross' Judgement Time, and The Chantells's Children of Jah. Also, getting clean copies of Black Uhuru's Rent Man or Dennis Brown's Man Next Door would make this a must buy alone.

If you want to know how exciting it was to listen to reggae music a few years back, get this CD. You will soon realize why I have been hooked for so long and why blogs like this exist! Overall, recommendation - MUST HAVE

White Mice - s/t

White Mice - s/t - (Basic Replay) BRWMCD-1 (2006)

Digital reggae music gets a lot of flack because many felt (including myself) that the quality of reggae music took a turn for the worse after the introduction of the first digital cut "Sleng Teng". I remember the shock when I first heard that rhythm on a 12" disco. After Sleng Teng, it seemed that everything coming out of Jamaica was digital and electronic. However, not all the digital reggae that came out during that era was bad and more recent digital reggae music is much better. Back in the mid 80s (late 80s), when digital reggae first came out, one really had to dig deep in the bins to come up with the odd, good digital tunes. Luckily for us, Basic Replay has released an album (recorded in the past) by White Mice that pretty much contains all killer digital reggae tracks.

According to the Basic Replay website, White Mice (born Allan Crichton in Montego Bay in 1970), sang with three sound systems which were Sugar Minott's Youthman Promotion, Jammy's Hi-Power, and Montego Bay's own Ticka Muzic. Yet, he did not really get his fame until he took the stage with Little Kirk and Tenor Saw at Reggae Sunsplash in 1985. At this time, with reggae performer Junior Delgado manning the controls, White Mice recorded some tracks at legendary studios like King Jammy's and Channel One. This CD is a collection of those recordings, some of which were originally released on 7" singles.

Overall, White Mice is a youth singer along the lines of early Yami Bolo, or Little Kirk, among others. While he sounds like a youth on this record, the topics of his songs are roots and reality. This is a strong effort and worth getting for those starting to experiment with reggae or those bearded, hard-core collectors.

Track List

1. It's A Shame


2. Try A Thing


3. Youths of Today


4. Roots Music


5. Youth Fighter


6. Step By Step


7. Tallawah


8. Consciousness


9. Mr Bossman


10. Love Mom & Dad


11. School Days


12. I Said No

The Revolutionaries - I Came, I Saw, I Conquered

The Revolutionaries - I Came, I Saw, I Conquered - JJCD 029 (original release 1980)

Here is another of those albums in which when I saw on CD immediately thought, "I remember this cover!". Originally released in the early 80s, this a relatively indicative dub album of the period. Produced by Joseph Hoo Kim of Channel One, this CD contains some dancehall dub workouts with The Revolutionaries providing backing tracks. In addition to Sly & Robbie, Rad Bryan and Ranchie are on guitar, and Ansell Collins and Robbie Lynn on keyboards and synthesizer, respectively. The dubs are mixed by Ernest Hoo Kim, Barnabas and Maxie.

Among the vocal tracks used for dubs are songs by Barrington Levy and Junior Delgado. My only complaint of this reissue is that it seems that the volume is low. I had to crank up the volume on my unit in order to here it properly. Aside from that, this is a decent set. Maybe not a must have but if you find it cheap or need to fill out the collection, then go for it.

The Revolutionaries - Jonkanoo Dub

The Revolutionaries - Jonkanoo Dub -Hitbound JJCD-025 (1978)

The Revolutionaries were the house band at Channel One studios. This group is responsible for most of the music that came out of the this premier studio in the 70s. Basically, the Revolutionaries would lay down the rhythm and then vocalists and or DJs would come in to voice over the rhythms. The result was a single, an album track, a dub plate, or all three!

The musicians that made up The Revolutionaries was fluid. At the end of the day, whoever happen to be in the studio that day was then part of the Revolutionaries. However, on this record, the musicians included Sly Dunbar (drums) Robbie Shakespeare (bass and guitar), Lloyd Parks (bass), Rad Bryan (guitar), Ansell Collins (keyboards), and a slew of top notch horn men. For those familiar with reggae, you know the names above. If you are new to reggae, learn the names above.

I actually remember when this record was in the stores in the late 70s and early 80s. However, I never bought this LP for some reason. Actually, part of the reason was that tons and tons of dub albums were in the market at that time and some of them were good and some not so good. Well, after hearing this record today, I really missed out!

Mixed by Ernest Hoo Kim and Barnabas this record has some top drawer dubs. For me, the dub is only as good as the backing track that is used. Well, this record has some very warm, melodic, and familiar rhythms. All given an expert mix by the gentleman above. If you are looking for a representation of strong 70s dub, then this album should be bought. Overall recommendation. BUY

Sizzla - Waterhouse Redemption

Sizzla - Waterhouse Redemption - Greensleeves (GRELCD 291) - 2006

I have never been a big fan of Sizzla. Too many mediocre cuts flooding the market. However, from time to time, I will hear a single that just wipes me out. In addition, Sizzla seems to have too many cuts over bashment rhythms. On this release, he teams up with King Jammy over old classic rhythms to provide us with a relatively consistent album from top to bottom. Not all the songs are backed by the Hi Times Players, since we do have a few electronic cuts. Yet, the rhythms are strong enough that they allow Sizzla to do his thing over familiar territory. It also gives the listener the chance to check out a "newer artist" singing over familiar and comfortable backing tracks.

While there are very few "blow me away" tracks on this CD, there is still enough on here to make even the most cynical reggae old-school snob take notice. Sizzla's delivery is mixed. Sometimes he is off tune with no hope of getting back to the right key. Other times, he just glides over the song as if he owned it originally. For those of you have lots of Sizzla recordings, you are probably OK with this style. For those new to Sizzla, the mixed delivery is normal.

While not a classic album, overall it is not bad. I would get it to add to your Sizzla collection but don't expect your life to change with this LP. In fact, there has to be better Sizzla albums available.

Various Artists - Studio One Rude Boy

Various Artists - Studio One Rude Boy - Soul Jazz Records SJR CD 148 (2006)

When I was just a young record collector and reggae music enthusiast, buying Jamaican reggae recordings was always an adventure and fun. I was lucky to live in a city that actually contained a reggae music store called, appropriately, "Strictly Reggae Records". After that closed down, my main reggae music mentor, Dave Allard, ended up working at various other record stores around town and he took with him the best reggae section in town. I remember getting excited about going to see Dave on Saturday because that is when he would have the new records and 45s out in the bins from that week's shipment. It was during this time that I learned about reggae music. It was during this time that I became aware of Studio One.

Dave was a Studio One fanatic and he basically turned me into one as well. Frankly, it was easy to become a Studio One fanatic because the music was so good. Dave would try to order as much as he could to stock the store and anything he had he always set aside a copy for me. As time went on, I started to hit other reggae music stores in other cities (e.g., Los Angeles) and I started to build up a decent collection. It was always exciting to stumble on a rare 45 or LP that I had not seen before. Needless to say, I picked up everything I got my hands on.

Over the years, the amount of Studio One recordings that I "missed" is beyond belief. As I later came to realize, many records never actually made it to San Diego or Southern California. In fact, the realization that there were thousands of Studio One recordings out there that I had no access to made me very sad. Luckily for me, labels like Heartbeat Records and Soul Jazz Records have been reissuing some of the standard Studio One releases along with rare gems that I had no idea existed or knew I would never get my hands on.

Studio One Rude Boy is another one of Soul Jazz's great compilations of Coxson Dodd's Studio One recordings. As the Rude Boy theme suggests, this record is made up of songs that either warned, admonished, encouraged, or attacked the bad boys of Jamaica. Like other Soul Jazz recordings from this series, included are some relatively well known songs that have been released on LPs or 45s, along with some rare gems. For instance, among the well known songs are The Wailers' "Good Good Rudie", John Holt's "Hooligan", and Johnny Osbourne's "Murderer". However, this is my first time seeing Owen Gray's "Ballistic Affair" or Keith McCarthy's "Everybody Rude Now". The collection also seems to cross all different segments of Jamaican popular music as ska, rocksteady, reggae and dancehall are included in this set. A great package over all and a huge recommendation.

Black Roots - On the Frontline

Black Roots - On the Frontline - Makasound (MKS 09) 2004

Where was I? That was my first reaction when I finally heard this set by this British based reggae band. While I was certainly familiar with some of the other British reggae bands from the 80s (Aswad, Steel Pulse, Matumbi, and Black Slate (among others)), I was completely ignorant of these guys. What a waste!

While the sound is clean and very similar to the production values that one hears on Aswad or Steel Pulse albums, it is still hard roots music. This CD contains track after track of well done, original rhythm reggae music. Like the Gladiators, this is a self contained band. That is, Black Roots plays its own instruments although they do receive some help from Rico Rodriguez and Dick Cuthell on "Move On" and "Whe Dem A Do".

All the tracks on this CD have appeared before on the first two Black Roots albums that were released in 1983 and 1984, "Black Roots" and "Frontline", respectively, although recorded between 1980 and 1983. Luckily for us, Makasound has decided to bring this music out of semi-obscurity (at least for me), so that more roots lovers can finally enjoy one of the better reggae bands that hase come out of the British Isles. Well done Makasound. All roots lovers should enjoy this fine set.

Junior Byles - Curly Locks

Junior Byles - Curly Locks: Best of Junior Byles & The Upsetters 1970-1976 (Heartbeat) HB 208 (1997)

Junior Byles is somewhat of a mystery and remains so to most reggae fans. At some point, toward the beginning of his career, it all went wrong for Junior. Something happened to Junior mentally that basically caused or resulted in him "losing his mind". As such, his recorded output is not that large given his considerable talents. Heartbeat Records has lovingly put together this package that captures some Junior's best material from his days recording with producer/engineer/artist Lee Perry at Randy's Studio 17 and Perry's own Black Ark studio. Not every track is a Junior Byles song, however, as this collection gives us a taste of Jah T, Dennis Alcapone, and the vocal group, The Versatiles (with Byles as the singer). The backing band on each track is some incarnation of The Upsetters (a semi-regular group of musicians that played on Perry's recordings) that included brothers Carlton Barrett and Aston "familyman" Barrett, both whom later went on to be part of Bob Marley's legendary backing band.

So, what songs are included? Well, one gets some classic Junior Byles songs like his version of Fever, A Place Called Africa, Long Way, and his most popular song (arguably) Curly Locks. In addition, we get a few alternative mixes and unreleased alternate takes of songs. Among the rare gems heard here for the first time are different versions of Curly Locks that really highlight the beauty of Junior's voice. There are also some unreleased material for the collectors. The package contains a great booklet that provides some background on Byles and his career and also has a song by song guide that tells you a little bit of the story behind each song. Overall, a great package. However, while this is a great set for the reggae collector and should be considered a must have, the reggae novice may want to wait a while before purchasing this CD. For advance reggae listeners only!

Sugar Minott - Leave Out A Babylon

Sugar Minott - Leave Out A Babylon (Discograph) DGCD 81108 (2003)

I bought this CD because it was advertised, on a popular reggae website, as a "return to roots" and a "return to form" for Sugar. Given the quality of Sugar's roots material from his days at Studio One and his own Black Roots and Youthman Promotion labels, it seemed like a sure bet and a must buy. After the first couple of listens, I was frankly disappointed. Instead of getting some hard roots rhythms from late 70s and 80s, I heard some unfamiliar tunes with some unique, non-traditional arrangements. So, not wanting to give up on this release, I decided to leave it alone for a few days and see if my mind would change.

A few days later I threw this CD in the player and listened again. This time, it began to make sense to me, and the arrangements and songs did not seem so foreign. First, this CD does not really sound like Sugar's early roots or dancehall albums. However, it does have the "spirit" of those albums in the sense that the music provides a backdrop for Sugar's reality lyrics. The backing tracks, played by musicians based in France, sound new and fresh. The arrangements are also more modern in that they are not the dense dancehall sounds of earlier times. At first, I admit, I was upset because I am a fan of that dancehall sound. However, one should not be afraid of new things and after getting over the shock, I was able to appreciate what the new sound brought to the experience of listening to this recording.

However, with any Sugar Minott recording, the best part is his voice. One of the smoothest singers in the history of JA, Sugar glides, almost without effort, over these tracks. Overall, a true return to form with some new, exciting Sugar Minott material for all to enjoy. This is definitely a must have.

Arc Angel Shots Vol 4

I am back! Here is an upload of Arc Angel Shots Vol 4



1. Gregory Isaacs – Sunday Morn – DANCSI (1980) (DSR 1413 A)
2. Gregory Isaacs – Sunday Morn Version (DSR 1414 B)
3. The Tamlins – Testify – Sky Note (SKY 1031)*
4. The Revolutionaries – Testify Version (SKY 1031)*
5. U Brown – Come Yah Jah Children– Gorgon (1978) (JM 001A)
6. U Brown – Come Yah Jah Children Version (JM 001B)
7. Bunny Wailer – Trouble Is On The Road Again– Solomonic (1982) (DSR 5780A)
8. Bunny Wailer – Trouble Is On The Road Again Version (DSR 578? B)
9. Mighty Diamonds – I’m Still In Love – Channel One (1975) (Joe Joe 2091 B)**
10. Mighty Diamonds – Love Me Girl – (Joe Joe 2090 A)**
11. Tony Palmer – Sister Beloved – Clintones (1977) (SB 03 A)
12. Clintones All Stars – I Beloved Dub (SB 03 B)
13. The Survivors – Leggo Badness – Harmonic (1981) (DSR 2205 A)***
14. The Survivors – Leggo Badness Version (DSR 2206 B)***
15. Freddie McGregor – Big Ship – Thompson Sound (1982) (DSR 5088 A)
16. Thompson Sound – Big Ship Version (DSR 5089 B)
17. Carlton Coffee – Tonight – Sound Studio One (MC 2344 A)
18. RAS B’s All Stars – Tonight Version (MC 2344 B)
19. Steel Pulse – Sound System – Mango (1979) (X-9613-A-CS2)

* # on Label – No Matrix #
** Channel One Economic Package – 33 1/3RPM
*** The Slickers as The Survivors

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I am traveling

The blog has been a bit slow since I am currently on a business trip in the US. Please be patient. I will soon add more of the Arc Angel Shots and other reviews of top notch reggae music. Thanks for all the comments as well.

V.A. - Every Mouth Must Be Fed

Various Artists - 'Every Mouth Must Be Fed' 1973 to 1976 - Pressure Sounds PSCD 59 (2008)

Pressure Sounds has provided us with another great compilation of rare Jamaican music from the 1970's. This release focuses on Pete Weston's Micron Music label which up until this release has been badly under-represented in the reissue market. Among the featured artists on this compilation are Junior Byles, I Roy, Jah Stitch, Joe Higgs, and The Defenders. The format follows, generally, song and version. Hence, one usually gets a nice dub of the song right after the vocal track. Most of the material here is unfamiliar to me in that I have never heard these specific songs or versions before. However, the backing tracks or rhythms are not unfamiliar and are laid down by the Hippy Boys, The Aggrovators, and The Upsetters. There are a couple of first rate cuts on here but for me the tracks by The Defenders are top notch. I Roy is also strong on this release and contributes 3 tracks including the title track.

The booklet included with the CD is first class and tells us the story behind Pete Weston's work and provides us with a glimpse of how things were in Jamaica during this golden time of reggae music. One interesting fact for me is that the Micron label is a JA label and NOT a Canadian label. When I was buying reggae records back in the day, all of my Micron albums were pressed in Canada and I thought that it was a label out of Canada. In fact, Weston moved to Canada but the origins of the label are strictly JA. I learn something every time!

Highly Recommended.

Various Artists - Rub A Dub Soldiers

Various Artists - Rub-A-Dub Soldiers (Rare Heavyweight Rub-a-Dub Deejay Tracks) - Makasound (MKS18) 2007

I will be honest. DJ albums often leave me a little cold. While there are definitely some exceptions, most DJs are good for only a few songs on any LP release. I am of the firm belief that DJs are better in a singles format. For example, how many times have you gone back and listened to any Toyan albums? Funny thing is that I like Toyan but I just don't go back to him that often. In any event, it was with some trepidation that I purchased this recent Makasound release.

So, why did I buy this? Well, it is a Makasound release and their track record from previous releases is excellent. Second, there are numerous DJs on this CD, so different styles and deliveries will be represented. Finally, I try to be a reggae completest so I had to buy this. In other words, I am willing to take one for the team! So, what is the final verdict?

As I mentioned above, a singles format is best for DJs (my opinion). It also helps if the DJ has some good backing tracks to showcase his or her skills. Luckily for us, the odds of hearing a good backing track on this CD are high since it is the Roots Radics that are laying down the rhythms. In fact, all the tracks were originally recorded for Junjo Lawes, Linval Thompson, and the above mentioned Toyan, at Channel One between 1980 and 1983. Not all the rhythms are great but the ones that are good are really good. For example, Captain Sinbad's Eyes of the Tiger, Ranking Joe's Sheperd's Bush and River Jordan, and Little John's and Billy Boyo's Bushman Connection are as solid as they come. Others contributing lyrics over solid tracks are Brigadier Jerry (Roots Mans Skank) and Lee Van Cliff (Water Gone). Yet, this CD also includes some pretty uninspiring cuts by Nicodemus and the above mentioned Toyan.

Overall, this a decent period piece that provides the listener a snapshot of the DJ sounds of the early 80s. While the quality of the songs included in this collection is mixed, there is enough here for a serious reggae collector to enjoy. However, a person just getting into reggae music may want to pass on this release for a while. All in all, this is for advanced reggae music listeners only.

Arc Angel Shots Vol 3

Here is a link to Vol 3 of Arc Angel's Shots Vol 3


1. Carl Dawkins – Maga Dun – Blank (KG Pre) (FKG 7216)
2. Carl Dawkins – Maga Dun Version (FKG 7216)
3. Delroy Wilson – Have Some Mercy – Dee Jay (1974) (AF 2504 A)
4. Observers – Different Fashion (AF 2505 B)
5. Dennis Alcapone – 6 Million Dollar Man – VP (1975) (BL 3010 A)
6. The Aggrovators – 7 Million Dollar Man (BL 3009 B)
7. Mighty Diamonds – No More Will I Roam – Stars (DSR 0974 A)
8. Ring Craft Possie – Version (DSR 0975 B)
9. Freddie McGregor – Leave Yah – Freedom Sounds (1981) (DSR 5068 A)
10. Freddie McGregor – Version (DSR 5069 B)
11. Tappa Zukie – Oh Lord – Stars (1978) (FRM 6448 A)
12. Tappa Zukie – Version (FRM 6449 B)
13. Max Romeo – Everyman Ought To Know – Giant (1973) (KC 2545 A)
14. Impact All Stars – Version (KC 2545 B)
15. Bobby Floyd – Rainbow Skies – Jam Rock (1976) (JRNY AS 3727 A)
16. Joseph Gordon – Friends & Families (Vers) (JRNY AS 3727 B)
17. Ken Boothe – You Keep Me Hanging On – Nura (1983) (DSR 1263 A)
18. Rass Brass – Hanging On (DSR 1264 B)
19. Milton Henry – Gypsy Woman – Cactus (1976) (CT 92 A -1)
20. Milton Henry – Gypsy Dub (CT 92 B -1)

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Cornel Campbell 45s - Now Mine

I picked up a couple of 45s on Ebay this past week. As you can tell, I like Cornel Campbell.

Cornel Campbell - Knotty Dread No Lie (Prophecy 7")
Cornel Campbell - Heartache (Virgonian 7")
Cornel Campbell - Have Mercy Oh Jah (Weed Beat 7")
Cornel Campbell - I'm Still Waiting (Studio One 7")
King Burnett - Babylon A Fall (Upsetter 7")

Leroy Smart Selection Vol 1

Leroy Smart Selection Vol 1

I was 16 or 17 years old. I was still in high school. The year was either 1980 or 1981 (at the latest). I had just started getting into reggae music seriously and I had also just found Strictly Reggae Music - a record store in downtown San Diego, CA. Mind you, this was when downtown San Diego was still a bit harsh. That is, this is at a time when downtown San Diego was not a destination!

On a Friday afternoon, I remember driving down to the record store in order to buy a record and to talk to the owners of the store about reggae music. Talking to Chris and Dave was the only way I got information about reggae music at that time. In addition, I wanted to go down and talk to the guys about the concert that was being put on the next night by an artist named Leroy Smart. I had become fan through the record store and I probably had a record or two and possibly a 45. I was especially excited about learning as much as I could about him since this would be my first reggae concert ever. As I walked into the shop, a wirey looking gentleman was at the counter and had placed the needle on a record that turned out to be Smart's Let Everyman Survive LP. As the first notes played and Leroy's vocals burst out of the speaker, the wirey gentleman got every excited and began to sing along to the record. After about a minute, he picked up the needle and started the record again. Each time he did this, he would sing the first few verses of the song and then restart the record. Well, as you may have guessed by now, this was Leroy enjoying the sound coming out of the speakers at full blast. Being young and naive, I pointed to the record and said, "Is this you?". He looked at me and nodded his head and said, " No, no..it is not me". I didn't believe him and the guys in the store laughed and told me that it was Leroy. Leroy, however, denied it and kept on playing the record.

It turned out that Leroy was staying with one of the owners of the store while he did a mini tour of California. He had apparently been hanging out at the shop all week listening and playing records, then in the evening rehearsing the local band that would support him on his mini tour.

After hearing the first song of the album, Let Everyman Survive about 6 times, I decided to buy it and head on home. As I walked out of the store, Leroy was standing outside on the sidewalk listening to his record being played while he leaned up against a car parked out front. He didn't see me come out but as I walked by him I tapped him on the shoulder. As he turned around, he was startled to see me again and held up his hands as if implying, "I have not done anything". When he did this, I did not say a word to him. In fact, all I did was show him the record in my hand that I had just bought inside. As he saw me holding his record, he smiled as if he realized that he had been caught and that he could no longer deny who he was. I still did not say a word to him but smiled back and I started to walk away toward my car. As I walked away, he tapped me on my shoulder and after I turned around, he grabbed my hand and with a big smile said, "irie". To this day, Leroy Smart has been one of my favorite performers of all time. By the way, the concert the next night was tremendous.

Here is a selection of 45s I put together.

Leroy Smart Selection Vol. 1

1. Hooligan Vagabond (Jah Guidance) (DSR 0316 A) 1978
2. Hooligan Version (DSR 0317 B)
3. The Fittest Shall Survive (Hit) (DSR 7564 A)
4. G.G. All Star – Dub Part Two (DSR 7565 B)
5. So Strong (Ossie Sounds) (Ossie 209 A) 1978
6. Cultural Version (Ossie 209 B)
7. Jah Forgive Them (Micron) (DSR 2886 A)
8. Forgiving Version (DSR 2887 B)
9. What Will I Do (Rite Sound) (GA 102 A)
10. What Will I Do Version (GA 102 B)
11. Children Of The Ghetto (Write Sounds) (WTS 1001 A) 1978
12. Children Of The Ghetto Version (WTS 1001 B)
13. Waiting In Vain (Hit Bound) (DSR 4077 A) 1977
14. Waiting In Vain Version (Joe Joe 935 B)
15. Satisfaction (New Star) (DSR 6902 A) 1978
16. Satisfaction Version (DSR 6903 B)
17. Be My Lover (New Star) (DSR 5680) 1978
18. Be My Lover Version (DSR 5681 B)
19. This Ghetto Girl (Smart) (GG Records 1700 A) 1977
20. Ghetto Version (GG Records 1700 B)

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Arc Angel's Shots Vol 2

Here is Vol 2 of Arc Angel's Shots

artist/title/label/matrix #


Arc Angel’s Shots Vol. 2 - Strictly 7” Singles (A’s & B’s)

1. Joe Gibbs and the Guerrillas – Tribute to Donald Quarrie – Joe Gibbs (1977) – (DSR 2005)
2. The Guerrillas – Quarrie Version (DSR 2006)
3. Horace Andy – My Soul – Clintones (TPS 004 A)
4. Wild Bunch, Inc. – Soul Version (TPS 004 B)
5. Ranking Joe – Ask Me No Question – Town & Country (1977) (DSR 4402 A)
6. The Mighty Two – The Answer (DSR 4403 B)
7. Shorty the President – Don’t Skulk School – Crazy Joe (1976) (DSR 4171 A)
8. The Mighty Two – Hully Gully Rock (DSR 4172 B)
9. Dillinger – Corn Bread, Earl and Me – Tuff Gong (1979) (DSR 1963 A)
10. Dillinger – Corn Bread Dub (DSR 1964 B)
11. Augustus Pablo – Third Eye – Message (1978) (DSR 1132 A)
12. Augustus Pablo – Dub Version (DSR 1133 B)
13. Danny Clarke – The Longest Liver – Clintones (1976) (CS 76-A)
14. Clintones All Stars – I Live (CS 76-B)
15. John Holt – Everyday Is Just A Holiday – Channel One (1978) (Joe Joe 1329 A)
16. John Holt – Version (Joe Joe 1329 B)
17. David Isaacs – Seems I’m Losing You – VP (1977) (VP 2045 A)
18. David Isaacs – Losing You Version (VP 2045 B)
19. Delroy Williams – Ten To One – Message (1982) (DSR 5604 AS)
20. Roots Radic Band – Dub (DSR 5605 BS)

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Arc Angel's Shots Vol 1

A while ago, I put some of my 7", 12" and 10" singles on CD. These were mostly for my enjoyment but I did trade with other collectors. Various versions of these compilations have been floating around. Over time I have received numerous requests to upload these recordings for others to enjoy. Well, I finally got around to doing Volume 1 of the singles compilation. Over the next few weeks the rest will go up so please check back.

Artist/Song Title/Label/Matrix # (if available)


Arc Angel's Shots Vol 1

1. Dennis Brown – Home Sweet Home – Cash & Carry (1979) (DSR 0286 A)
2. Ranking Joe – Zion (DSR 0287 B)
3. Jah Lion – Stepping Out of Babylon – Federal (1977) (DSR 3290 A)
4. Jah Lion – Stepping Out Version (DSR 3291 B)
5. Barry Brown – You Hurt Me – Mandingo (1979) (DSR 9243 A)
6. Jah Martin All Stars – Hurting Dub (DSR 9244 B)
7. Junior Byles – W-E-E-P-I-N-G – Thing (1977)
8. The Ethiopian Eunochs – East African Herbs Vendor Dub Wise
9. Norris Reid – She Keeps Me Waiting – Rockers (1979) (DSR 6439 A)
10. Norris Reid - She Keeps Me Waiting Version (DSR 6440 B)
11. The Afreques – Cool It Brothers – Belmont (1977) (DSR 3722 A)
12. The Mighty Two – Zion Gates (DSR 3723 B)
13. The Mighty Threes – One Black People – April (1978) (April 8791 A)
14. The Mighty Threes – One Black People Pt. 2 (April 8792)
15. Carl Dawkins – Get Together – JJ Pre (1970) (Dyna JJR 1692-1)
16. Carl Dawkins – Get Together Version (Dyna JJR 1693-1)
17. Dillinger – Plantation Heights – Well Charge (1975) (Joe Joe 2891 RRS)
18. Dillinger – Plantation Heights Version (Joe Joe 2891 RRS)
19. David Isaacs – All I Have Is Love – On Top
20. David Isaacs – All I Have Is Love Version



You can download here

An Introduction

Hi.. Welcome back to Reggae Music Reviews!

I have started this blog in an effort to provide reggae music lovers with reviews of reggae LPs, CDs, soundsystem tapes, books and other reggae related matters. I am a long time listener of reggae music and have certainly developed a background in order to provide opinions and guidance to those who have been listening to this music for a long time, and to those why may have recently started listenting to reggae.

The world of reggae music is vast despite it being mainly a Jamaican product. At times, even to the hard-core collector, the amount of music that is available (and unavailable) can be overwhelming. However, over the years much of the music I loved and collected in the late 70s and 80s has been reissued and or become available on places such as Ebay. This blog, I hope, will enable a few of you to wade through that material.

I am not sure how this blog will evolve. I do plan on asking some of the experts to provide reviews and links to information about reggae music. Put differently, I hope that I am not the only person that provides information to this blog. In any event, there is one thing I want to make clear, I will try very hard to provide reviews of not only new music but also reviews of records that were released a long time ago, either original press or reissued. The reason for also focusing on older recordings is that it is often these recording that are most readily available. As such, in addition to getting guidance on the new Lutan Fyah CD, for example, I also hope that you can come here and browse reviews regarding records and recordings by Leroy Smart. If those names mean something to you, then you are in the right place. If you have no idea who those performers are, you are also in the right place as I (we?) will provide the background for you to enjoy them as much as those that have been listening to this music for a long time have.

Finally, I am not an journalist or a professional writer. I am just a fan. So, please excuse the badly written sentence from time to time. While I will try to keep these to a minimum, I hope that you will understand if my writing is not "poetic".

Well, that's is my introduction. Check back soon for reviews and much more (hopefully).