Reggae charts

Review: The sound of dreadlocks, should there ever be such a thing in the abstract, is best put forward by Junior Byles, the Versatiles' lead member, backed up by a shuffling riddim produced by Errol Thompson and Joe Gibbs. 'Dreadlocks Time' hears a relick of their 'Ba Ba Boom' beat, and is a heartwarming song about self-care and respect for one's own hair, with lyrics: "don't try to stop dreading/natty dread time is a-here/don't lose your cool/respect the rules..." The music is just as measured in feel, and the version is just as "natty", so to speak; there's a very well-timed acapella moment thrown in with the version mix.

Review: Freddie McGregor's 'No Competition', originally released in 1981, is a rare gem from the roots and lovers rock scene that has been gaining renewed attention in the underground. Now here reissued, this track showcases McGregor's smooth and timeless reggae style, reminiscent of Bob Marley's classic sound. Backed by the One Vibe Band, McGregor delivers a classy, uplifting reggae tune that radiates warmth and authenticity, marking it as a standout in his extensive catalogue. On the flip side, Joe Gibbs & The Professionals provide 'Don't Try It', an instrumental counterpart that offers a stripped-down version of the original. Their rendition is a deep, mostly instrumental dub version that emphasises rhythm and bass, allowing the groove to take center stage.

Review: When reggae vocalists The Heptones joined legendary producer Joe Gibbs, they collaborated with the Now Generation band to create the incredible track 'Hypocrites.' This truly lovely song stands out as one of The Heptones' finest works while also being a standout reggae classic. The track captures a powerful message and features Leroy's heartfelt performance over lovely organ work and catchy ridders. This notable period in The Heptones' career was preserved on two exceptional albums released by Joe Gibbs, including Heptones and Friends which is well worth finding for a showcase of their impressive work from the era.

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: 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: Whether or not it is a coincidence that we are fast approaching 420 and ever more weed-related 7"s are dropping we do not know, but nor do we care. Culture's 'Callie Weed Song' is going to bang whatever day of the year you drop it, so long as you play it loud. It's got carefree keys and ganglier guitars accompanying the traditional reggae groove and some super stoned-sounding vocal musings on top. Joe Gibbs & The Professionals then appear on the flip with something just as summer, laid back and seductive in the form of the great 'Golden River.' Let's not get into what that title may or may not refer to.

Review: Legendary dub producer Joe Gibbs - who famously worked with fellow roots and reggae heavyweight Errol Thompson as The Mighty Two - joined forces with The Professionals for this, a fourth volume in his African Dub chapter series. It has now been remastered by VP after many years of arguing over who owns the rights and gets pressed up to this lush green slab of vinyl. All 1- dubs are as deadly as you can imagine with lefty low ends, absorbing rhythms and the spirit of Jah very much present and correct. A vital album for any self-respecting dub head.

Review: Top tier reggae vocalist Freddie McGregor worked often with thereat producer Joe Gibbs back in their heyday. Once such occasion was when they took on a version of Bob Marley's 'Rock My Boat' and originally released it in 1981. Produced by The Mighty Two aka Joe Gibbs & Errol Thompson, it's got a fat low end and nice guitar chords that are lazy and inviting while a stylised vocal up top. On the flip, Gibbs and The Professional dubs things out.