WILLIE WILLIAMS レコード& CD

Review: Dave Welding's Soul Junction label is back with another limited edition 45rpm that keeps up the fine run of recent form. These two gems are the work of the late great Willie Williams, a blind singer from Chicago who was discovered performing in the Windy City's local clubs. He was signed to ABC records in 1966 and put out only a couple of other well received singles. 'Give It All I Got' is a beautiful piece with raw drum work and lush vocal backing harmonies next to a gentle piano line. It is stirring stuff while the flips-side 'Do You Understand' is more upbeat with its funky riffs, more great backing vocals and a rolling beat that locks you in.

Review: Studio One have put out plenty of big tunes and this is the latest to get a big reissue on a super loud-cut 12" single for extra devastating impact. It's a well-known classic every self-respecting reggae fan should know and blows up any party, especially when tweaked like these two versions. They were originally produced by Studio One bossman Coxsone Dodd and have been covered by The Clash as well as sampled by The Fugees and hip hop MC KRS One. The snaking lead synth, the rumbling drums and classic ska trumpet are all straight up irresistible.