Mad Professor & Dean Fraser - "Kunte Escape" (4:04)
Dean Fraser meets Mad Professor - "Silent Invaders" (4:14)
Dean Fraser meets Mad Professor - "Silent Invaders" (dub) (4:11)
Review: 'Dark Clouds' is a powerful anthem about overcoming life's toughest challenges. The song embodies resilience by conveying that victory is always possible, even in difficult times. Its uplifting melody and infectious chorus blend English, Wollof and an Arabic, African and Caribbean patois to make a unique, cross-cultural sound. Produced by the legendary Mad Professor at Ariwa Sounds, the track offers hope and strength while inspiring us to keep pushing forward despite adversity over a compelling rhythm.
Review: The Blue Beat players step up to Japan's Green Union label with a pair of heavily ska-influenced and uptempo reggae rockers. 'Scootering On!' taps into that scene's love of a Lambretta and the joys that day rides bring, all with twisted guitar lines and some big, body brass energy. On the flip, 'Marseille Soleil' is a more subdued sound with warm, smeared organ chords, more lazy and gentle horn work and a rhythm that sways to and fro on fat dub undercurrents. Two lovely cuts on a very nice 7".
Review: Eddie C invites Fake Glasses and The Noodleman to straddle his crimson two-wheeler for two deep dub disco delights: The former gets his treacle-like squelch on as he flexes around a short vocal hook and sweet skank, using chubby acid as a means of melodic bass dynamic. The latter goes deeper again with warm kick, a sheet metal snare and a low-end flow that's so thick it's almost toxic. Limited and hand-stamped, this is nothing short of stunning.
Review: A fascinating new long-player from Justin Robertson under his new Five Green Moons alias, marking another new stylistic turn for the Mancunian DJ and producer, whose main remit is house music to most. Moon 1, by contrast, is not "Justin at the house controls", but rather him delving into "his roots, digging around through the likes of P.I.L, Gang Of Four, On-U-Sound, Current 93, Coil, Sabres Of Paradise and all manner of post punk echoes", a "haunted ballroom of memories", in the artist's own words. Our glossing of Moon 1 is that this is probably the best post-punk come dubstep crossover record you'll hear in 2024, though it does also cross over into wonky beats and monologuing ambi-trance on occasion too. The record moves increasingly mauve-psychedelic as it progresses, with 'Everything's A Song In A Sound World' paring back its off-the-top vocal slogans for a purer exercise in rattling psyche-dub and 'I See All And I See Nothing' admitting to the contradiction of humility and quixotism in the same fret-slid breath.
Review: Otis Gayle and Robert Dubwise Brown come together for this superb new 7" on Vortex Japan. It's a glorious cover of an already glorious original tune. Their version of 'I'll Be Around' leaves the originals feel-good melodies in place but works them into a lover's rock rhythm with gentle but sunny percussion and a heartfelt re-sung vocal. It's buttery smooth and good for the soul. On the flip is a dub vocal version that is even more laid back and deep, with fleshy bottom ends and wiggling bass.
Review: The mighty Jah Warrior label is back with some more irresistible dub and roots sounds, this time featuring legendary Jamaican musician Vin Gordon on trombone, and all mixed to perfection by Steve Vibronics. Gordon's 'Gentrification' is a big-assed wobbly with natty chords adding dynamic vibes to the languid and steamy trombone. The rumblings, tumbling drums are run through with some natty melodies and the whole thing oozes sunshines. On the flip is Jah Warrior with the superb 'Gentrified Dub.'
Review: 'Wow War Tonight' is a cover by Amano Airi and Himegami Shano, originally performed by H Jungle with T. The lively track served as the ending theme for the anime D4DJ First Mix. Tetsuya Komuro and in addition to solo versions by Amano Airi and Himegami Shano, a special version featuring Call of Artemis was included in their debut album in 2023. This 7" features a playful Two Million mix and a Karaoke version of the original. It's lively and unique, to say the least.
Peter Hunnigale & Tippa Irie - "Hard Times" (3:43)
Nick Manasseh - "Dub Hard" (3:42)
Review: The cult figure that is Peter Hunnigale and South London reggae sound system mainstay Tippa Irie have teamed up to deliver a fresh rendition of Pablo Gad's classic riddim 'Hard Times.' This new version is just the fifth release from the Tok 2 label and it arrives on a 7" that showcases both artists' distinctive styles with Hunnigale's soulful vocals and Irie's dynamic DJing making it a real winning sound. The B-side features a dub mix by renowned producer Nick Manasseh, and he adds real dub depth to the track.
Review: 'Ain't No Sunshine' is one of the great soul songs. Originally recorded by Bill Withers, a legendary vocalist who simply walked away from the scene once he had said all he had to say, it has been covered many times. Here it is Yasushi Ide who steps up with a new version that comes featuring Ken Booth & U-Roy on this new 7" from Grand Gallery out of Japan. In original form, it's dubbed out to the max with oodles of echo and dark pads next to some original vocal toasting. 'Border Town' is then a more acoustic sound with gentle guitar strums and slow, persuasive rhythms.
Review: Stockport's very own J Walk delivers 'Broken Beauty', a wise musical meditation on the crucial need for beautiful things - people, works of art, you name it - to incorporate some element of ugliness or brokenness. With all tracks in tow produced by Walk aka. Martin Fisher, who controls a massive foundry of instruments and gear - the entire list of over 20 machines has been published online, curios among them being the Boss SYB-5 bass synth pedal, Pocket Operator PO-32 drum machine and even a stylophone for good measure - the resultant Broken Beauty is a fractious but infectious class of tunage; its ten tracks adhere to essential golden means of downbeat chug and cold-waved Balearics, and yet allow such natural beauty to shine without much fuss over polish. If titles like 'Janky Waltz' and 'Botox Fomo' are anything to go by, we may deduce that the attitude going into this one must've been one of gleeful ludicrousness, a key trait to channel if you want to let phaseout guitar pedals flow and freak filtrations wail.
Review: R Zee Jackson's 'Row Fisherman Row EP', released on Jamwax, is a smooth fusion of roots and lovers rock. Born in Clarendon, Jamaica, Jackson (also known as Esso Jaxxon or Castro Pink) eventually moved to the United States in 1973 and later settled in Canada. There, he connected with key figures in the reggae scene, including Oswald Creary of Half Moon Studio, Doug of Comfort Sounds, and the legendary Jackie Mittoo. The EP kicks off with the title track, 'Row Fisherman Row', a melodic roots rock jam enriched with smooth dub elements. The warm, laid-back groove sets the tone, followed by 'Blackheart Man', where a deep, wobbling bass carries a more traditional reggae sound. On Side-2, 'Long Long Time' is a spiritual, echo-heavy vibe that exudes class and depth. Jackson continues to contribute to the reggae community as both a performer and producer, keeping the spirit of roots music alive.
Review: 'Thanks Be Unto Him' by King Shark is a powerful tribute that is built on rolling reggae rhythms and topped with uplifting messages of faith and gratitude. King Shark is known by reggae lovers for his commanding voice and authentic roots style and delivers tracks that resonate with spiritual strength and positive energy. With rich basslines, soulful melodies and lyrics centred on thankfulness and resilience, these jams serve as both a celebration and a meditation. Fans of conscious reggae will find this one a vital addition to their racks.
Review: After the passing of reggae icons Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, South Africa's Lucky Dube rose to prominence as one of the world's most celebrated reggae artists and was known for his powerful stance against apartheid and electrifying global performances. Prisoner is often considered his greatest work and it now gets a special 60th anniversary edition reissue. Featuring socially-driven tracks like 'War and Crime' and 'Prisoner' alongside uplifting songs such as 'Jah Live' and 'Remember Me' they all showcase his unique vocal style. This special 60th Anniversary Edition LP includes original South African artwork, two previously unreleased bonus tracks, a lyric insert and rare photos of the legendary Lucky Dube.
Review: Sofia Manari and Inokasira Rangers are not strangers to working together on their own unique covers of some classic sounds, all reworked into fresh dub grooves. This time they turn their focus to 'First Love, which is a lush listen with Manari's soothing and sultry vocal delivery. On the flip is another laid-back dub sound with a constant rhythmic pulse, natty chords and more clean and soulful vocals from Manari making this a sweet little 7" from Japan's finest, Parktone.
Isiah Mentor & Kai Dub - "Lightning & Thunder" (7:37)
Kai Dub - "Pablo Rock" (3:46)
Kai Dub - "International Dub" (feat Noah Zebulon) (4:05)
Review: 'Lightning & Thunder' is the work of Isiah Mentor and Kai Dub and it is the latest drop from the Dub Forward label. The original version features vocals by Mentor (who is also known as Lilly Melody) and production is taken care of by Kai and between them they cook up a modern reggae sound with elements of digi-dub in the sleek synth sounds. The hits echo endlessly and the low end is a real wobbler. Kai then goes it alone for a couple of melon-twisting dubs on the flip.
Review: Night Owls are back with a fresh take on Lee Moses' 1970s cut Got That Will, transforming the soul classic into a dancehall-inspired banger. Dan Ubick leads the production, bringing in powerhouse vocalist Gina Murrell and the tight rhythm section of Wilder, Colie, and Rivas to infuse the track with new life. As if that wasn't enough, Kingston's Ranking Joe adds his signature toasting, giving the track an extra layer of authenticity and drive. The B-side, Got That Dub, takes things deeper with Roger Rivas on the mix, dialing up the echo and delay to create a spaced-out, dubbed-up version. With steady radio play on BBC Radio 6 and KCRW, this release is already making waves. DJs and collectors will want to act fastithis record is primed for late-night sound system sets and is sure to fly off the shelves.
Prince Jamo - "Is There Anybody Out There?" (4:03)
Rootz Lions - "Is There Anybody Dubbing Out There?" (3:59)
Review: Featuring the much-loved Prince Jamo's distinctive vocals and introspective lyrics over Rootz Lions' rich, dub-heavy instrumentals, 'Is There Anybody Out There?' calls you to reflect on humanity's shared struggles and the search for truth. It does so in great style with powerful basslines, echoing brass and rhythmic grooves that capture the essence of classic roots reggae while bringing a fresh, conscious vibe that resonates today. Ideal for fans of meditative, message-driven reggae music, this one by Prince Jamo and Rootz Lions is a deep, roots-reggae collaboration that explores themes of connection, searching, and spirituality.
Review: Andy Rantzen is an academic psychologist and former University of Sydney lecturer who has been a fixture in Sydney's underground music scene since his early work with Pelican Daughters when he was producing industrial-ambient soundscapes and experimental tape recordings. Recently, his music has gained renewed attention through labels like Kashual Plastik and Efficient Space. Now he joins Paesaggi Records for a special Halloween release on 7". This unique two-tracker includes custom screen-printed cover art by Fieldink Studio, while Rantzen's continued impact on experimental and ambient music shines through in the sounds.
Tarrus Riley - "Love Is Stronger Than Pride" (4:10)
Dean Fraser - "Love Is Stronger Than Pride" (version) (4:13)
Review: If you're in the mood for some gently summery reggae-soul to warm you on cold winter nights, we'd heartily recommend this tidy new single from Tarrus Riley, son of legendary Jamaican vocalist Jimmy Riley. 'Love is Stronger Than Pride' is breezy, musically positive and gentle, with Riley delivering a slick and emotive lead vocal over a backing track rich in toe-tapping reggae grooves, subtle organ motifs, twinkling synth sounds and, most surprisingly, some rather lovely Spanish guitar motifs. It comes accompanied by a flipside 'Version' mix that's not all that dubbed-out, but nevertheless does a great job in showcasing the track's sunny and heart-warming instrumentation.
Review: A slice of Daft Punk covers levity from Sokabe Keiichi & Inokasira Rangers for Park Tone Records on 7" vinyl. Here the Japanese rocker and his fellow band the Inokasira Rangers lay down an unheard-of instrumental rocksteady rollick, against which the vocal core of Daft Punk's 'One More Time' is overlaid, as seamless in feel as a freshly fined cloth on a varnished coffee table. The track also comes backed by the original Hammond triller 'Boku No Siawase', a ploddier reggae treat in stereo, against whose offbeat rummage Keiichi's voice glides in the manner of a beautiful bird's call.
Review: The classic 'Just Another Day' by Judah Eskender Tafar is reissued here on 180-gram vinyl by Studio 1 Jamaica. Originally a standout track that would be played nice and loud of proper sound systems, this reissue brings its soulful reggae vibe back to the scene while preserving the rich sound and timeless feel. It has some super deep rhythms and pillow bass, as well as some unique melodies sounds and a generally hazy, daydreaming feel that will wash your woes away once you turn it up loud. On the flip, Simms & Egmond's 'What's The Matter' is just as blissed out and ready for blazing out.
Review: After the successful digital release of Paulette Tajah's Journal Of A Butterfly EP, it's time for these sounds to make their way to vinyl for the first time ever. The of the pressing is quality is outstanding which means this is the best way to soak in the sounds of this great album. Each song is brilliantly recorded and Tajah's artistry is laid bare with fat dub drums, rich low ends and plenty of signature soulful vocals from Tajah who can sound aloof, emotive, empowering and plenty in between, as she shows here.
Review: Up Fi Jah by the great Ras Teo delivers powerful roots reggae with a message of faith, resilience and spiritual uplift. Known for his authentic sound and devotion to Rastafari, Ras Teo combines conscious lyrics with deep, traditional reggae rhythms that resonate with listeners in everything he does. This album explores themes of justice, love and unity and Ras Teo's vocal strength and lyrical wisdom are complemented by rich basslines, layered percussion, and horns that carry you away, making Up Fi Jah a profound and perfect addition to your roots collection.
Review: Tokyo Riddim Vol. 2 looks into the eclectic fusion of reggae and Japanese pop, uncovering a unique musical journey that began when Ryuichi Sakamoto traveled to Kingston in 1978. Collaborating with Jamaican icons like Neville Hinds and Rita Marley, Sakamoto's experience set the stage for a burgeoning connection between Japanese artists and Jamaican reggae. This compilation showcases tracks like Teresa Noda's 'Tropical Love' and 'Yellow Moon', highlighting the innovative blend of dub, electronic, and new wave that emerged in Japan during the late 70s and early 80s. The album features genre-bending contributions from key figures such as Yosui Inoue, Kay Ishiguro, and Tomoko Aran, who reimagined reggae with bold, unconventional styles. Tokyo Riddim Vol. 2 explores the hybridisation of these sounds, demonstrating how the exchange between Tokyo and Kingston birthed a fresh, boundary-defying genre. This collection shows Japan's experimental spirit, weaving together reggae's rhythms with the era's cosmopolitan influences, carving out a place beyond Western musical conventions.
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