Masterpiece David Rodigan CD

There's little doubt that David Rodigan MBE is something of a legend. Radio broadcaster, renowned record collector and walking font-of-all reggae knowledge, Rodigan is a good choice to mix the latest installment of Ministry of Sound's popular Masterpiece brand (though, of course, it's more of a blend than a mix, Rodigan being a selector rather than a mixer). He grasps the opportunity provided by the album's three-disc length with both hands, moving through classic blues-rock, jazz torch songs, soul, bizarre instrumental funk and Dusty Springfield, before giving us a lesson in 40 years of Jamaican music. It's this bit that will appeal most to fans and newcomers alike, and is clearly the collection's strongest suit. That said, the fact that there's not a duffer amongst the mix's near 60 tracks is recommendation enough.

Craig Charles Funk And Soul, MAW