Back in stock: Dancehall/Ragga

Review: Behemoth reggae and dancehall troupe Little Lion Sounds make a riveting comeback with the reissue of Kingston Journey, first released in 2019 - this time around, we're led once again by the ear to the 'Ibbean heartland. With each track on this multifaceted stomper dedicated to a singular artist in the Little Lion roster, we're provided with ample choice of character, talent and style here. Kicking off with Jae Prynse's 'If We Only', the instrumental for which perfectly combines dancehall disjoint and reggae bubble to serene effect, we're first met with themes of militancy and hope, which continue to resound thereout. On the pure reggae side of things, Micah Shemaiah's 'Parler' is a standout, a dedication to the girl of his dreams; Queen Omega's 'No Love' responds with a swerve towards lovers' dancehall, defiantly lamenting the plight of those who lack the one quality that turns the world.

Review: Scotch Bonnet's periodic Puffers Choice compilations are always worth picking up, featuring as they do a mixture of label highlights from Mungo's HiFi and their closest collaborators, and tracks from like-minded producers and vocalists scattered around the UK and far beyond. Predictably, this third volume - the first in two years - is every bit as essential as its predecessors. It boasts a mixture of digi-dub, revivalist roots, dancehall and lover's rock, with highlights including Viktoriuous's hook-up with Earl Cunningham, 'Hotstepper', the raw weight of Parly B's killer crew cut 'Lyrics Spree' (featuring Daddy Freddy and Tippa Irie, amongst others), the future dancehall of Shokryme and RTKaL's 'BBS', and the soulful, warped bass-sporting heavy dub pressure of Skari's 'Black' (featuring INT Dub).

Review: Yet another good ole Studio One classic. Michigan and Smiley's 'Nice Up The Dance' is widely understood as one of the dancehall scene's most formidable classics. First out in 1979, this edition also comes with 'Real Rock', one of the most enduring tunes in reggae from time. Two rootsy monsters you won't regret hearing.