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Roots/Lovers Rock charts
Bestselling Roots/Lovers Rock vinyl
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Review: Sade's Lovers Rock marks a significant evolution in the band's sound and image. Departing from their signature luxuriance, the album embraces a sparser, knottier sound that beautifully balances past influences with contemporary trends. Adu's vocals, thick and low as ever, blend seamlessly into the breezy landscape of acoustic guitar, reggae bass, and simple percussion, creating an atmosphere of understated sensuality. The album's themes range from new love to motherhood to societal issues, showcasing Adu's lyrical prowess and her ability to navigate the complexities of human emotions. Lovers Rock also pays homage to the cultural influence of Caribbean Britishness, both in its title and its musical style, adding depth to Sade's sonic palette. While the album was released amid a pop landscape dominated by shiny, slick productions, Sade remained true to their sound, avoiding obvious trends and opting for a more introspective approach. The album's impact reverberates through contemporary music and allowed Sade to maintain their unique identity and continue evolving with each release.
… Read morePlayed by: Juno Recommends Soul
in stock $24.61
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Ska Fever Vol 2 (7")
Cat: OGR 880. Rel: 24 Sep 24
Review: The superb Original Gravity label is back with more OG reggae brilliance and ska classics. This second volume of Ska Fever kicks off with a big stepper from Junior Dell & The D Lites in the form of 'Rude Girl' while Prince Alphonso & The Fever bring big playful brass to 'Malostran-Ska' and Junior Dell & The D Lites then return on the flipside of this 7" with 'Remember To Forget' which picks up the pace and is built on a hardcore rhythm. The legendary Woodfield Rd Allstars shut things down with a more melancholic vibe on 'Beseda Blues.'
… Read morePlayed by: Craig Charles Funk And Soul, Juno Recommends Reggae
in stock $16.68
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Review: This essential reissue presents a rare collection of dub instrumental reggae tracks recorded by Tommy McCook (who you may know as the sax man from super ska outfit The Skatalites) and Bobby Ellis (who played the trumpet for dub legends The Upsetters) in 1977. Originally licensed to Grove Music, this still remarkable album features renowned musicians such as Sly and Robbie, Ansel Collins on organ, Clinton Fearon from The Gladiators on lead guitar, and Bernard Harvey of The Wailers on piano. The recordings took place at Channel One and were mixed at King Tubby Studio and every single tune cuts deep and with great authenticity.
… Read more in stock $18.05
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Review: Nkrumah Jah Thomas's label The Midnight Rock was a cornerstone of exceptional productions in early Jamaican music. As a savvy producer, Thomas maximised his rhythms and created numerous records for a variety of artists. He emerged at the perfect time and recorded breakthrough tracks in top studios like Channel One, often with the Roots Radics. While many of his sessions were released, some remained unreleased, trapped on multi-track tape. One such session featured Sugar Minott, known for his hit 'Good Thing Going.' Thomas has crafted fresh mixes from these sessions with this single addressing gun violence and featuring a vibrant Radics rhythm and a new dub on the flip side.
… Read morePlayed by: Juno Recommends Reggae
in stock $11.48
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Heavy Manners (7")
Cat: FFSPT 1035. Rel: 18 Sep 24
Review: 'Heavy Manners,' is a groovy summer jam 7" from Germany's premier reggae duo, Marcus I and aDUBta. This collaboration, influenced by US Soul and classic Jamaican Reggae, brings the Studio One vibe of the 1960s to life. Following their debut album Cut A Wire Showcase (2023), they now deliver this upbeat, flying-cymbal track that's sure to set any dancefloor on fire. On Side-2, a minimalist riddim "Version," perfect for DJs craving that authentic vibe. After nearly two decades as a reggae drummer, aDUBta has fully embraced the sounds of 60s to early 80s reggae, gaining international recognition with Sounds From The Attic. Marcus I's soulful vocals and sharp songwriting shine throughout, recorded at aDUBta's Attic Roots Studio. The single, mixed analogue on a Tascam 388, is primed for sound systems worldwide, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for this dynamic reggae team.
… Read morePlayed by: Juno Recommends Reggae, Tom Drew
in stock $10.12
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Review: Timeless Roots is a brilliant collaboration between reggae legend Horace Andy and renowned bassist Jah Wobble. Known for his ethereal vocals, Andy breathes new life into classics like Stevie Wonder's 'Superstition' and The Beatles' 'Come Together', while also revisiting his own iconic tracks like 'Skylarking' and 'Natty Dread A Weh She Want.' Wobble, former PiL bassist, Orb collaborator as well as a solo artist of some renown, blends reggae, modern dub and world music to create a rich sonic landscape that perfectly complements Andy's distinctive voice. The album stands out not only for its reinterpretation of well-known songs but also for its innovative production, which maintains the essence of roots reggae while introducing contemporary elements.
Wobble's deep bass grooves provide a solid foundation, allowing Andy's vocals to soar, particularly on new takes of his classics. This collaboration is a seamless fusion of two musical worlds, making Timeless Roots one of the standout reggae albums of the yearia true match made in musical heaven.
… Read moreWobble's deep bass grooves provide a solid foundation, allowing Andy's vocals to soar, particularly on new takes of his classics. This collaboration is a seamless fusion of two musical worlds, making Timeless Roots one of the standout reggae albums of the yearia true match made in musical heaven.
in stock $18.32
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Cat: MISSYOU 037. Rel: 02 Oct 24
Review: Billed an "absolute collector's item" by multiple outlets, the Japanese dub master Pecker's breakout EP 'Rasta Instantane Avec L'effroyable Pecqre' hears a welcome reissue via the German imprint Miss You. We miss Pecqre no longer, as he - real name Hashida Masahito - is back to flaunt the best of his percussion and production skills in the dubbing tradition. The EP known in English as 'Instant Rasta with the Terrible Pecker' was originally released in 1980 as one of the earliest known meetings of Japan and Jamaica; it allegedly parodied elements of the Japanese Otaku consumer culture and redirected it to a sophisticated transpacific world musical palette, with Pecker himself shining as the central rhythmaster. On this release, which studs big names like a beadwork of garnets on a belt, Masahito here teamed up with Minako Yoshida, Vitamin Dread, Augustus Pablo and none other than Sly & Robbie, producing three tracks of pioneering "Japanaican" sound.
… Read more in stock $21.86
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Review: Foundational reggae artist Dennis Walks' 'Waste Time in Babylon' has long been a much sought-after track and it is now the latest 1980s digital gem to be reissued on 45 as part of the 333 series. The tune was originally produced by Prince Jazzbo for his Ujama label in 1987 and finds Walks, who first gained recognition in the early 1970s working with producers Harry Mudie and Joe Gibbs, delivering his trademark powerful vocals over the iconic 'Racecourse Rock' rhythm. The track also features legendary keyboardist Winston Wright in fine form which helps to make this reissue a must-have for fans of classic reggae and digital-era fusions.
… Read more in stock $15.30
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NINEY THE OBSERVER / VARIOUS
The Observer Master Mix Collection (unmixed 4xCD box set)
Cat: DB4CD 142. Rel: 15 Aug 24
Review: By the late 1970s, the 12" had replaced the simple 7" as the format of choice for reggae singles. One of the most enthusiastic exponents of the extended 'master mix' - where elements of vocal and dub versions were combined for longer dancefloor pleasure - was producer/mixer Winston Holness AKA Niney The Observer. This fantastic, four-disc set draws together an epic selection of Holness's 'Observer Master Mixes', fully remastered and available in full for the first time since they were originally released. Naturally, there plenty of extended takes on familiar Jamaican hits present, including those by genuine scene stars (Horace Andy, Gregory Isaacs, Dillinger, I Roy, Dennis Brown, The Heptones, Freddie McGregor etc), as well as obscurities and genuine rarities. In a word: essential!
… Read more in stock $29.25
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in stock $13.95
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in stock $25.97
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Review: Jamaican singer-songwriter Mortimer has released his highly anticipated debut album, From Within. Produced by Winta James, often alongside Mortimer himself, this album explores a rich tapestry of personal experiences and musical styles. From Within offers a journey through Mortimer's life, reflecting his loves, struggles, and the guidance he's found in his Rastafarian faith and family. The album presents a diverse soundscape: the introspective acoustic strains of 'Whole Heap', the sultry dancehall vibe of 'Slowly', and the energetic roots rhythms of 'Not A Day Goes By' and 'My Child', It also ventures into nostalgic 80s pop and r&b influences, as well as a unique reggae disco flavor. Mortimer describes 'My Child' as a heartfelt message and introspective letter to both himself and his children, conveying lessons and emotions he wishes he had received. The album cover, photographed by Michael Moodie, symbolises human nature with its floral imagery, representing both fragility and growth. From Within promises to be a profound and resonant album, beautifully articulated through Mortimer's personal narrative and musical craftsmanship.
… Read more in stock $29.80
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Conquering Lion Of Judah (limited 12")
Cat: PD 011. Rel: 21 Aug 24
Review: The 11th outing for the Peckings label is a doozy on one limited 12". It features not one but two standout tracks on one release complete with the request versions. Jah Mega stamps his mark on the 'Little Way Different' rhythm with his effort 'Conquering Lion Of Judah', while the Gladiators' classic 'Jah Works' gets the Peckings remix treatment on the flip after Sister Jahian offers up a unique take of her own. All four of these are low-end heavy and full of upbeat goodness.
… Read more in stock $15.85
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Step It All Over (7")
Cat: JGM 7022. Rel: 17 Sep 24
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.
… Read more in stock $10.67
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in stock $15.04
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Review: Lloyd Coxsone's Tribes Man label is having some of its key moments reissued and there is no argument about this one featuring Fred Locks. It is sheer quality roots and vocal lovers rock from the seventies that has stood the test of time but still bears all the hallmarks of that golden era. 'Voice Of The Poor' is a heavy, swaggering rhythm with dumpy kicks drums and subtle harmonica worked into the guitar riffs. The butter vocal up top is filled with passion and pain and, as usual, if you flip this over you get a dub that has a little more musical playfulness in the keys.
… Read more in stock $15.04
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in stock $12.57
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in stock $12.57
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Review: Les Rhythmes Ruban's tunnel-visioned modus operandi is to churn out some of the toppest reggae and ambient dub on the East side of the Channel. This time they welcome twin producers Blundetto (Max Guiguet) and Pupajim (Jean-Marie Cariolet) to their roster, for the ambitious and sensorial collaborative version record Tancardub, in turn a comprehensive dubbing of their 2024 record Tancarville. Guiguet is a longtime favourite on the French dub, electro, jazz and all-else underground, having made his initial way in Dijon before cutting his teeth as the seasoner of many a vocal artist's track, including Akale Wube and Hindi Zahra. Cariolet, meanwhile, is a favourite member of the renowed dub troupe Stand High Patrol, and has been at and about it since at least 2009. Together, Tancarville was an impressive roots rollick, with 'Groenland' standing out as the vespertine vocal number; but system huggers will appreciate this version much better, since Tancardub wholly commands a crisper yet stiffer, rattlier POV on an initially serene album.
… Read more in stock $21.86
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Review: Federal and Dubstore Japan reissue highly sought after gem, Willie Lindo's cover of Love Unlimited Orchestra's 'Midnight And You'. 'Midnight' is a louche, smooth-as-sin nocturne punctuated by hammond wobbles, whispered nothings and surely one of the most in-the-pocket basslines in reggae history and the legendary Lloyd Charmers gives it a sparse, small hours dubbing on the B-side, removing all fat and showcasing the unparalleled rhythm section. Absolutely essential stuff.
… Read morePlayed by: Mukatsuku Records Chart, PHANTOM ISLAND
in stock $14.76
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Cat: ONUCD 156. Rel: 12 Sep 24
Review: To commemorate 40 years of the influential On-U Sound label, this release highlights the remarkable contributions of the iconic Jamaican MC, Prince Far I. Known for his distinctive, gravelly voice and his impact on roots reggae, Prince Far I's work with the early 1980s On-U house band, Singers And Players, is a testament to his enduring legacy. This compilation brings together a selection of his guest appearances, alongside alternate versions and rare tracks that will resonate deeply with devoted dub reggae enthusiasts. Prince Far I established his legendary status in roots reggae not only as a producer but also for his unique deejay style, characterised by his deep, authoritative voice. After collaborating with prominent figures like Bunny 'Striker' Lee and Coxsone Dodd, he gained widespread recognition with the Psalms For I album, where he recited Bible verses over powerful, heavy rhythms. His partnership with Adrian Sherwood of On-U Sound began when Far I's Cry Tuff label, founded in 1976, was distributed in the UK by Sherwood's Hitrun imprint. The musicians who played with Prince Far I, initially known as The Arabs, became integral to the On-U Sound family, evolving into groups like Creation Rebel, Singers And Players, and Dub Syndicate. This compilation pulls from notable releases including War Of Words, Revenge Of The Underdog, Staggering Heights, and more, serving as a fitting tribute to Prince Far I's lasting influence in the world of dub reggae.
… Read morePlayed by: Juno Recommends Reggae
in stock $15.30
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Wake Up The Town (7")
Cat: II 7201. Rel: 12 Aug 24
Review: As we continue to enjoy some warm weather here in the UK there will never be a better time to be dropping your finest reggae sounds. And this new 7" deserves a place amongst your collection with an original by King King featuring Eek a Mouse. 'Wake Up The Town' is a contemporary-sounding dub with some digital synth lines as well as nice echoing hits and dub-wise vocals. On the flip, you can find the Irie Ites All Stars seeing up the 'Wake Up The Town' (riddim) for a more paired back sound.
… Read more in stock $14.21
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in stock $24.61
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in stock $17.49
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Review: Since launching late last year, Harlem Shuffle Records has reissued a string of killer reggae recordings from the 1960s and 70's. Here the imprint offers up its first compilation, a 14-track selection of early reggae, dub and rocksteady hand-picked from the vaults of such legendary labels as Black Swan, Blue Cat, Duke, Doctor Bird, High Note and Trojan. It's a fine and hugely entertaining collection all told, with highlights including the easy, laidback skank of Stranger & Patsy's 'Tell it to Me', the trumpet-laden instrumental shuffle of 'Walk With Des' by Des All Stars, the Hammond-powered dancefloor heaviness of Clancy Collins' 'Brother Moses' and the prototype dub brilliance of 'Black Out' by the Hardy Boys.
… Read morePlayed by: Juno Recommends Reggae
in stock $23.52
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in stock $16.96
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Use To Be My Dread (7")
Cat: RSLR 7009. Rel: 25 Sep 23
Review: Jamaican singers Sonia Ferguson and Tyrone David recorded 'Use To Be My Dread' in the late 70s for producer Bunny Lee. A lovers' rock gem, Ferguson's vocals are rhythmically deft, and Bunny Lee's production is glitzy and dynamic, adding to its sense of serene and playful humour. The song concerns a former lover who has changed for the worse, though, despite this change, Ferguson regards this person as akin to a dreadlock, a permanent lock of hair and an enduring part of her being. Though it was originally released as a single on the Attack label, it has since become a sought-after collector's item, and so thoroughly deserves this reissue via Rock A Shaka.
… Read more in stock $18.05
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Valerie Harrison - "Fools Paradise"
Chosen Few - "Don't Keep Me Waiting"
Sylvia Tella - "You Might Need Somebody"
Review: First released this time last year, the second instalment in Athens of the North's 'For The Love of You' compilation series returns to stores in lightly tweaked form. Like its' predecessor, the collection is a loving celebration of lovers rock, with a focus not on original songs but reggae-fied cover versions. This edition ('2.1' rather than '2') includes all but one track from the original pressing, which has been replaced by Byron Walker and Sandra Edwards' brilliant take on Dennis Edwards' 80s soul fave 'Don't Look Any Further'). It remains a brilliant comp all told, with our current favourites including Valerie Harrison's super-sweet cover of Melissa Morgan boogie classic 'Fools Paradise', a smouldering interpretation of Simply Red's 'Holding Back The Years' by Pete Cambell and a seductive shuffle through Lionel Richie's 'All Night Long' courtesy of Fallon Jennings.
… Read more in stock $28.16
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Spaceship To Mars (gatefold yellow & blue vinyl 2xLP)
Cat: CYCDZLP 003. Rel: 30 Aug 24
Played by: Juno Recommends Reggae, Juno Recommends Dub
in stock $32.80
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in stock $14.76
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in stock $26.23
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Them A Fight (7")
Cat: JGM 7012. Rel: 15 Jul 24
Review: This dual release from Studio 16 and Town & Country offers up some exceptional roots and lover's rock fusion sounds that swell the heart in every way. It is the brilliant Barry Brown who steps up to deliver the vocal on the sick early 80s 'Boxing' rhythm. His rhythmic delivery chimes with the natty chords and earthy guitar riffs as the heavyweight bass meanders away down low. On the flip, it's Joe Gibbs & The Professionals who get busy with a dubbed-out version they name 'Fight Back'. Pure fire, so do not sleep.
… Read morePlayed by: Mukatsuku Records Chart
in stock $10.67
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Review: With a career spanning over 50 years, Linval Thompson stands as one of the last living legends of Jamaican reggae. As a singer and producer on the renowned Thompson Sound label, Thompson has left an indelible mark on roots reggae with hits like 'I Love Marijuana,' 'Jah Jah The Conqueror,' and 'Don't Cut Off Your Dreadlocks.' He has also produced for major artists including Barrington Levy, Eek-A-Mouse, Johnny Osbourne, and Freddie McGregor. Known for his discretion and humility, despite owning one of the largest reggae catalogs in the world, Thompson is a cornerstone of the genre. His album, Ganja Man, features ten tracks and five dub versions. The album showcases his unmistakable voice and addresses current social issues, urging listeners to fight against corruption and embrace self-improvement. The title track, 'Ganja Man,' celebrates the plant he holds dear. The album features top reggae musicians such as Roots Radics, Jammys, Med Tone, The Ligerians, Irie Ites All Stars, Nambo Robinson, and Dean Fraser, with mixing by Roberto Sanchez and Irie Ites. Notably, singer and toaster Trinity features on the track 'Tune In.' If you don't know this man, get to know him by picking up this great album.
… Read more in stock $22.95
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Review: Cultural Roots delivered a potent dose of tuff roots vibes with their original 1980 release, 'Jah No Partial' which was and is now on this reissue backed by The Revolutionaries on dub duties. This limited vinyl edition comes housed in a vibrant full-colour company cardboard sleeve and offerings collectors a chance to grab a bit of reggae history. In addition to the original track, two exclusive Dub Plate Cuts further showcase raw energy and heavyweight low ends. With The Revolutionaries lending their signature sound to the dub mix, this is a crucial package.
… Read more in stock $16.39
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in stock $15.04
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in stock $27.34
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Review: Soul Revivers are a UK-based project of musicians and producers spanning seven decades, including Nick Manasseh and David Hill from Rootikal. Played off as a reissue of two classics (the design of the 7" is convincing enough), this actual fresh single has got two lovably layered numbers on it: 'Shouting Dub' and 'Furthest Version'. The former is an attention-grabbing yet leisurely plod through the smoke-hazed forestreets of yore, graciously alternating between two-toned basses and globular guitars. The B is much more spacious and phat.
… Read more in stock $12.02
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My Oh My (limited green vinyl 7")
Cat: JUMP7SUSAN2 GREEN. Rel: 30 Jul 24
Review: Susan Cadogan's first live performance in Italy with The Magnetics was recorded in 2019 and is now getting released on long player. The vinyl features her chart-topping hit 'Hurt So Good,' which was produced by the legendary Lee Perry, alongside tracks from her 48-year career. Highlights include the 2017 comeback single 'Take Me Back,' and 'My Oh My,' which was a duet with The Magnetics that quickly sold out its 7" release. The LP overall captures a magic night that showcases the greatest hits from Cadogan's illustrious career.
… Read more in stock $13.40
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VARIOUS
Studio One Roots 2: The Original (reissue) (limited green vinyl 2xLP)
Cat: SJRLP 114C. Rel: 19 Oct 23
Review: It was originally back in 2005 that Soul Jazz managed to somehow outdo even their own good work with the release of Studio One Roots 2: The Original. The first volume in the series was considered something of a classic amongst dub heads but the second volume was easily as good. It's long been hard to find since then - for a good price at least - so it's great news the label has reissued it here in full, and on limited edition green vinyl no less. Reggae doesn't really get much better than this so snap it up, drop the needle on and turn it up loud.
… Read more in stock $30.36
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Love & Only Love (12")
Cat: LVPD 105. Rel: 20 Nov 23
Review: Tony Ruffcutt is a legend in the reggae scene and has been since the 70s. The label named after him has now got the right to recut a classic from that era, 'Love And Only Love' by Fred Locks. The original is a full-flavoured rhythm with nice wooden hits and brassy horns accompanying the fat-bottomed low end while the vocal is smooth up top. A dub mix and then a super dub adds even more weight to the low end and on the flipside is another roots icon in the form of Prince Alla who adds fresh lyrics to 'Man On Board'. The various overdubs and vocals were recorded in Jamaica with mixdowns taken care of by the legendary Caveman.
… Read more in stock $16.96
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A True (7")
Cat: JGM 7011. Rel: 18 Mar 24
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.
… Read more in stock $10.67
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Cat: RLGM 16981PMI. Rel: 13 Jun 24
in stock $31.17
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Engine 54 (limited numbered 180 gram audiophile gold vinyl LP)
Cat: MOVLP 2263G. Rel: 04 Apr 24
in stock $31.17
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Review: Lopez Walker is best known for his roots classics 'Jah Jah New Garden' and 'Send Another Moses' which were recorded for Roy Francis' Phase One label in the late 70s. His talent caught the attention of Joe Gibbs, who then went on to produce this sorely overlooked bluesy dance tune. The track's forlorn vocals and a haunting flute melody capture the essence of heartbreak while on the flip side, Errol Thompson delivers a stellar dub mix. It is fleshy and warm and full of trickery and is a must-hear for fans of Joe Gibbs' iconic productions from that era. Though underappreciated, this should be a hidden gem no more.
… Read morePlayed by: Osmose
in stock $10.67
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Weh You A Deal With (limited 7")
Cat: DE 24002. Rel: 27 Aug 24
Review: Digital English is a pioneering digital reggae producer who founded his own self-titled label in New York City back in 1984. Since then it has focussed on local talent from dancehall, lovers rock and roots worlds and is influenced by London's 70s sound system culture and icons like Jah Shaka, Sir Coxsone and Fatman, He is known, as a producer, for integrating a hardcore frequency into his music that reflects a blend of digital innovation and traditional reggae sounds and that is evidence here on a limited edition new 7" with Ras Sherby.
… Read more in stock $15.04
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in stock $14.21
