Review: Keeling Beckford's 'That Girl' is a fantastic early eighties vocal track by the esteemed producer and singer. It is set to Max Romeo's brilliant mid-seventies rhythm 'Stop Picking On Me' and now gets pressed up to 7" courtesy of DD and Studio 16. The original version is as blissed out as you can imagine with lazy drums and chords under the sweet and storytelling vocals. The version is longer and has more emphasis on the dubby low ends. Each copy is housed in a sturdy, company-printed sleeve making it a nice authentic wedge of roots.
Bongo Ossie & The Moon Lights - "Black Society" (2:50)
Super 8 Corporation - "Black Version" (2:58)
Review: The reissue of Bongo Ossie & The Moon Lights' Black Society on Hornin' Sounds is a treasure for hardcore reggae enthusiasts. Originally from 1975, the original delivers a classic roots sound with a fantastic collaboration that resonates deeply with lovers of the genre. The timeless track exudes the soulful and socially conscious vibes characteristic of the era. On Sidde-2, 'Black Version' transforms the original into a dub version. With abundant echo effects and an engaging stop-and-start beat, this track offers a dynamic listening experience. It's perfect for DJs seeking to infuse their sets with a vintage yet innovative reggae twist.
Review: Ken Boothe was the featured vocalist on the Inna Da Yard album The Soul of Jamaica back in 2017. Despite begin a relatively new record, it has all the authenticity and sonic hallmarks of a long-lost 70s classic. Now the best tunes from the album are pressed up to its own 7" by Reload. 'Let The Teardrops Fall' opens with a vocal doused in reverb and some shiny metal synth lines with a hypnotic harmonica taking the lead. 'Let It Go Dub' then gets all stoned and laidback with bottomless dub depths sinking you in deep.
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.
Review: Irie Ites is a French label that is back with two more reggae heavyweights and frequent musical sparring partners in the form of Eek-A-Mouse and King Kong. They tackle a relic of the 'Murderer/Hot Milk' rhythm, a production that will take you back to the 80s reggae sound in an instant. 'Musical Ambassador' comes first and is a happy-go-lucky sound with some slow, dubby drums and lazy hits as well as stylised vocals, while the flip from King Kong, 'Money Could A Buy' fleshes it out with more reverb and natty guitar riffs that hang in the air above the cavernous low end.
Review: This hot new 7" allows you to experience a classic cut from UK dub pioneers Nucleus Roots featuring the iconic voice of Don Hartley. This brand new pressing presents a fuller, heavier vocal mix of a track originally released on their 2003 CD album and later as a sought-after 12" single. Now, for the first time, this fresh vocal mix comes on its own 45rpm alongside the classic meditation dub from their 2006 CD album, Heart Of Dub. Both cuts go seriously deep with modern synth touches and soothing rasta vocals sinking you into a fine and meditative sound.
Review: Brixton Heights Records' 'This Crazy Feeling Called Love' is a collaborative single by the Brixton Heights Crew, Kieko De Stefanis, and Gaudi. The track features Mafia & Fluxi on drums and bass, Gaudi on piano and co-production, and contributions from the Ital Horns, N. Gatti, and R. Rassi. Legendary reggae singer Peter Hunnigale provides new English lyrics that have been adapted from an old reggae song by the Italian band Sensasciou. The A-Side showcases Hunnigale's iconic vocals, while the B-side, 'Caruggi Jazz,' is an instrumental tribute to Genoa's charming alleys with a dub-infused orchestral sound. Mixed by Gaudi and mastered by Augustus "Gussie" Clarke, this is sure to become a dancefloor hit.
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.
King Kong - "Wake Up The Town" (feat Eek-A-Mouse) (3:29)
Irie Ites All Stars - "Wake Up The Town" (riddim) (3:30)
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.
Tricia Dean - "Don't Let It Go To Your Head" (4:58)
Christine Lewin - "In The Mood" (instrumental) (5:22)
Marvin James - "I'll Be Around" (instrumental) (4:45)
Tricia Dean - "Don't Let It Go To Your Head" (instrumental) (4:52)
Review: The Lovers' Special Request EP presents a compelling selection of classic soul and reggae-infused tracks, making their debut on 12" vinyl. This collection features notable contributions from Christine Lewin, Marvin James, and Tricia Dean, with production by John Kpiaye and DJ Smokey Joe. On Side-1, Christine Lewin's 'In The Mood' reimagines Tyrone Davis's smooth after-hours classic, transforming it into a memorable female-led reggae hit. This rendition captures the essence of the mid-80s lovers rock scene, turning it into a timeless playlist staple. Marvin James follows with his soulful cover of The Spinners' 'I'll Be Around,' now reissued on vinyl for the first time. This track is paired with a sought-after instrumental mix, offering a deeper dive into its rich textures. Tricia Dean's 'Don't Let It Go To Your Head,' a cover of Jean Carn's soulful favorite, features the signature synth-led rhythms from Kpiaye and Smokey Joe. This track showcases the smooth blend of reggae and soul, rooted in the vibrant London music scene of the era. Side-2 features instrumental versions of each track, allowing listeners to appreciate the intricate production work behind these classic songs. The 'In The Mood Instrumental,' 'I'll Be Around Instrumental,' and 'Don't Let It Go To Your Head Instrumental' offer a fresh perspective on the grooves that have long been celebrated. Curated by Smokey Joe, a London DJ legend known for his extensive soca catalog and influential soul sets, this EP highlights his early work with soul and reggae, providing a nostalgic glimpse into a golden era of music.
Review: Aza Lineage is a rising reggae star who radiates positive vibes and immense talent. Her live shows at Kingston's Dub School and Vinyl Thursday are rightly celebrated and she now commands the international stage with both confidence and humility in her performances which embody true rubadub style. Raised in a sound system environment, her deep-rooted musical foundation shines through on this dynamic rendition of 'One Draw,' which was produced by veteran King Jammy. It's a silky dub with watery keys and chords, organic percussion and curious leads next to the angelic vocals. Add in a version on the flip and you have an essential 45 rpm.
Review: If you're into classic mid-70s vocal roots then this one is for you. Produced by Earl Lowe aka Little Roy and Munchie Jackson with legendary outfit The Heptones, it is a timeworn back to that golden era. 'Mr T' has delightful vocal harmonies that swell the heart over the lazy reggae rhythms and noodling organ chords. On the flip side is a version that gets doused on echo and reverb and steps away some of the vocals while layering in the tumbling drums for extra heady appeal.
Prince Mohammed, Joe Gibbs & The Professionals - "Backway" (2:51)
Review: The fruitful relationship between Town & Country and Studio 16 continues once more here with a brilliant 7" packed with real reggae royalty. This double-sided dancehall release from the legendary 70s producer Joe Gibbs features vocals from the one and only Madoo. He is in singjay style on a-side jam 'Backway Mr Landlord' with deep drums and psyched-out guitars that bring the rhythm to life in a vibrant fashion. On the flip, it is the trio of Prince Mohammed, Joe Gibbs & The Professionals who step up and offer their own melon-twisting dub in the form of 'Backway Mr Landlord'.
Review: The peerless Partial is back with some brilliantly deep cuts from Nick Manasseh and Jeremy The Equalizer. A-side cut 'Absentee' showcases a robust part-digital rhythm and some warming dub low ends that are finished in style with Danny Red's commanding vocals weaving in and out of the mix to a heady effect. The single was originally a track from their popular 1993 album, and here it is served up on 7" next to a rare B-side dub mix that fleshes things out, adds plenty of reverb, and generally makes for more horizontal and heady listening.
Review: The third volume of the Strike Out Series on Bat features Emanuel and the Bionites taking on an Ikadub riddim and delivering an outstanding performance. Following their previous successful releases with Pinnacle Sound, Emanuel again showcases his talent on the dynamic Ikadub riddim and turns out something perfect for playing loud on sound systems everywhere. With 'Rumours,' Marcus I, a prolific songwriter and skilled singer, finds hit potential by crafting a powerful chorus from some new dubs. All five of these cuts have anthem potential and demand to be heard outdoors in the sunshine.
The Heptones & Sound Dimension - "Purple Lights" (6:43)
Review: Studio One presents a classic 12" release here that has always fetched high prices on the second hand market. It comes with Freddie's reggae rendition of the Hamlins' hit 'Soul & Inspiration' on the A-side and it is one that soon makes its way into your heart, body and soul. Flip it over meanwhile and you will find the Heptones offer their take on 'Purple Lights' and it is a sublime take too. This essential release is pressed in Jamaica using original stampers and labels which means that it has resulted in a pressing quality that may not be immaculate but maintains authentic vintage charm.
Review: Is there a more celebrated combination in all of reggae than Lee Perry & The Upsetters? The master producer and his iconic backing band laid down many of the genre's most vital sounds and helped subtly evolve it across the seventies and beyond. This single 'Jungle Lion' came right in the midst of that in 1974. An original 7" will cost you upwards of 500 quid, and that's if you can find one. Here it gets reissued on the young but already well-formed Skank & Groove label and is backed with a version by The Upsetters named 'Freak Out Skank' that gets even more warm, cavernous and dubby.
Review: Prince Chamba joins forces for a superb new roots cut here with Slimmah Sound and Ital Horns. Their 'Secret Light' is a smoky and seductive sound with wobbling low ends and impassioned vocals delivered with a heart-aching twist as the melanotic horns fly up top and rousing chords add some hope. Slimmah Sound & Ital Horns then add their own heavily reverbed dub version and Slimmah Sound offers 'Melody Of Light' which is full of hypnotic harmonica leads. A second dub version once again reworks it into a stoner's delight that will sink you deep into the sofa.
Smells Like Teen Spirit (feat Soothsayers Horns) (3:40)
Smells Like Teen Spirit (feat Little Roy & Hollie Cook) (3:47)
Review: If you are looking at the title, you are correct! A ska cover of NIrvana's timeless grunge song! Prince Fatty delivers a unique take on the classic with the limited first press 7" 45rpm black vinyl edition. Side-1 features an instrumental ska version, energized by London's Soothsayers horn section. Side-2 brings the cover to life with the reggae vocals of Little Roy and Hollie Cook. This is LVD0009, the ninth release from Prince Fatty's Lovedub Limited, based above the Fox & Firkin in Lewisham, South London. Presented in a patterned studio sleeve, this edition is sure to to turn heads.
Review: Dutch label Ghetto Cornerstone presents a new and limited 12" here that offers some high-class roots. The release features Jamaican singer Prince Alla in top form as well as dubs produced by Ray Ranking, along with an additional vocal track by Ras Ruben. They are all fine blends of classic roots reggae with fresh, dynamic elements, starting with 'Warn Them' with its flabby and wobbly low-end and happy vocal energy. Ras Ruben's 'Jah Guiding Star' on the flip is a more pained and yearning sound with a slower, more pillowy and cavernous low end.
Review: OTO Records and Red-i Soundsystem combine here to unveil 'Mystic Prophecy,' a fresh collaboration between Rastaveli MC and Red-i which comes on 12" vinyl. This new release features two original tracks and two dub mixes designed for nice and loud sound system sessions. On the A-side, deep, mystical vibes and conscious lyrics come from Rastaveli MC and are paired with a raw, meditative dub mix by Red-i. The B-side offers melodic, spiritual strings and forward-thinking verses from Rastaveli MC, complemented by a powerful, militant dub steppas remix with a roaring bassline by Red-i. This is an alluring fusion of sounds for summer fun.
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