Reggae charts

Review: In the mid-70s, reggae great Dennis Brown was on a creative high with producer Niney propelling him to stardom. However, around this time, he was transitioning back to working with Joe Gibbs, another masterful studio hand who would later cement Brown's superstar status. Gibbs had previously worked with him on the acclaimed Visions album, and this particular track was likely recorded during that era or slightly earlier. Despite its quality, the tune didn't reach the audience it deserved, largely due to Gibbs' lack of UK distribution at the time. For much of the seventies, Joe Gibbs remained sidelined in England, limiting the global impact of his exceptional productions, but reissues like this do a fine job of underlining his importance.

Review: Dennis Brown's No Man Is An Island is a prime example of the reggae legend's emotive vocals and unmatched delivery. His voice, laden with warmth, effortlessly conveys the song's message of self-reliance, bolstered by Studio 1's signature rhythmic backdrop. The track's production features tight drum patterns and rolling bass, creating a captivating groove that allows Brown's soulful performance to shine. On the flip, 'Going To A Ball' brings a change of pace, with its lively horns and upbeat tempo, showcasing his versatility. Both tracks capture the essence of Brown's contribution to reggae, marking him as one of the genre's most enduring and influential figures.

Review: First released in 1972, this authentic and essential reggae album showcased the most popular tracks recorded by a young Dennis Brown under the guidance of renowned producer Derrick Harriott. The third album in Brown's career, Super Reggae and Soul Hits marked a significant turning point and helped to establish him as a versatile singer-songwriter capable of crafting deeply soulful music. It highlighted his ability to connect with an adult audience as he explored the interaction of reggae with soul influences, emotional depth and musical maturity. This album played a crucial role in solidifying Brown's reputation as one of reggae's most influential artists so remains an essential part of his story.

Review: If you are reading this you will already likely know that Dennis Brown is a reggae don. Even amongst his rich and vital catalogue, 'Money In My Pocket' is a quintessential track produced by the legendary Joe Gibbs and backed by The Professionals. This one really captures Brown's smooth vocal delivery and signature soulful style over an effortlessly catchy, rhythmic groove that takes elements of roots reggae and infills with accessible, polished sound. The lyrics focus on struggles and aspirations so resonate on a deeper level and make this one a long-standing and beloved anthem.

Review: Brown Sugar, produced by Sly & Robbie, originally released in 1986 is a Dennis Brown classic. Backed by the pair's house band The Taxi Gang, including Robbie Lyn on synth and Lloyd 'Gitsy' Willis on guitar, this album features the iconic track 'Revolution' - a standout Dennis Brown hit - although each track on this album is a classic. Tracks like 'Have You Ever Been In Love?', 'Sitting And Watching', 'All Over The World', and 'Revolution (Parts 1 and 2)' highlight Brown's talent and impact on the dancehall reggae scene. This reissue is a reminder of Brown's enduring star power and musical legacy. Skip the greatest hits collections and dive into this album, truly showcasing Brown's artistry

Review: Experience the brilliance of Dennis Brown's late 70s roots vocal cut with this crucial reissue from Joe Gibbs. This new 45rpm features captivating harmonies by the acclaimed USA singer Dhaima, who is a frequent Brown collaborator, and here they combine in superb fashion for a deep roller with buttery vocals. On the flip side, indulge in the mesmerising dub version crafted by The Mighty Two. This is another great reggae release from the tireless folk at the Joe Gibbs imprint.

Review: The latest deep dive into the archives of Vincent "Randy" Chinn's legendary Impact label has unearthed two gems, both of which were initially featured on a now impossible-to-find, U.S-only ten-inch single. On side A you'll find the incredible 'Cheater', where Dennis Brown's weary but honeyed vocals hauntingly rise above a chunky, bass-heavy reggae riddim laid down by Chinn's impeccable Impact Allstars house band. The same riddim is reprised on flipside 'Harvest in the East', where Brown's mesmerising vocals are replaced by seriously good saxophone solos from the irrepressible Tommy McCook and brass band style horn arrangements.