Back catalogue: Reggae

Review: The on-point Burning Sounds is a treasure trove for proper dub and lovers rock delights from years gone by. They have been digging in the vaults again and come up with a new 12" which they have pressed on nice heavyweight wax, and the sounds more than deserve that. Hortense Ellis and General Roy's 'Give Thanks' is a crucial rhythm with lazy chords and guitars, DIY percussive sounds and deft little keys with a yearning vocal up top. Lawes Rockers is responsible for the flipside version and as you may expect it's dubbed out and reverb-heavy.

Review: These two powerhouses of pioneering dub meet up for the second time on this fantastic reissue by Burning Sounds originally released in 1978. The mostly instrumental album shows the duo helping to define the dub sound for the next generation of producers. Thanks to the inspirations and usage of Studio One, the sound is quintessential dub, like in the 'Garvey Dub' and title song 'Guerilla Dub'. They've not fully abandoned the traditional roots as you can hear in 'Malcolm X Dub' and 'Martin Luther Dub' though, turning them into more of remixes than original tracks. This album is a must for any 70s and 80s dub afficionado.

Review: For over 50 years, Mike Brooks has been a key figure in reggae music, both as an artist and producer. He co-founded the Teams label in the late 1960s with Patrick 'Jah Lloyd' Francis and gained fame producing at Channel One Studio with The Revolutionaries, notably on The Mighty Diamonds' 'Shame and Pride.' Brooks later worked at Duke Reid's Treasure Isle Studio, contributing to Pat Kelly's "Night And Day," and collaborated with notable artists like Blacka Morwell and Earl 'Chinna' Smith. After a stint with The Tots, Brooks launched a successful solo career and his 1978 debut album, What A Gathering, came ahead of a hiatus which was followed by One Love in 1983, recorded at King Tubby's and supported by The Roots Radics. The reissue on vinyl by Burning Sounds includes tracks like 'Grooving,' a Bob Marley cover, and addresses themes of relationships, love, and personal reflections.

Review: This reissue highlights a classic work of dub, featuring expertly crafted productions by Prince Jammy with backing from some of Jamaica's finest musicians. The album's foundation lies in its deep basslines, intricate drumming and inventive percussion, creating a seamless blend of rhythm and atmosphere. Gregory Isaacs' voice appears sparingly, manipulated into subtle snippets, letting the instrumentals take center stage. Originally released in 1989, this record embodies smooth simplicity, layering reverb and echoes to build a soundscape that is both soothing and invigorating. Its breezy, island-inspired tones flow effortlessly through the tracks, each standing as a unique piece of artistry. Whether experienced as a laid-back listen or a study in dub's mastery, this album is a timeless example of the genre's magic.

Review: Erroneously credited solely to Fred Locks on its 1978 release, this superb set is in fact a showcase of the work of the 12 Tribes Of Israel band in collaboration with the aforementioned artist; the collab also includes Earl 'Little Roy' Lowe, Albert Malawi, the Creation Steppers and Cherry Rock. With the 12 Tribes first forming in 1968 as a Rastafarian organisation based in Kingston, this troupe brought exceptional works of OG lovers' rock to the table, amidst a wider cultic organisation that saw each member grouped into a formation modelled on the Biblical 12 tribes of Israel. You wouldn't know it from the sense of pure relief and love that wafts from the music here: Love & Harmony is a brilliant one, carrying a universalist message of racial and spiritual unity amid an acknowledgement of tough beginnings and the necessity of lock care.

Review: The world will never not miss the one and only Lee "Scratch" Perry. His influence on dub will never be matched, his back catalogue will forever turn up some treasure or other you haven't heard. And now we can add to that this, a tribute album from his son Omar. Perry Jr is an accomplished performer in his own right and he shows that on Channeling Lee Scratch Perry, which features Olivier Gangloff who produced Perry Snr's final studio album. It's a blend of the fat, pillowy low ends Perry was so well known for with conscious lyrics, upbeat drums and plenty of whimsical and alluring melodies.

Review: Originally sold to Secret Records, this sought-after album features tracks recorded at Channel One Studio with Sly Dunbar at the helm. Despite its iconic cover featuring Darth Vader, the mixes remain solid, featuring tracks like Jimmy London's 'Ride On' and 'Open The Gate' by Well Pleased & Satisfied. While DubMusic has evolved, this album's riddims still hold up well, offering enjoyable dub with quality effects. In a competitive field, acknowledging its historical significance while recognising the evolution of dub music. Star Wars Dub remains a worthwhile addition to any collection, evoking nostalgia for the golden age of reggae and dub.

Review: Originally released in 1983 and credited to Yellowman, this album rightfully acknowledges Purpleman as the true artist. Now available on 180-gram vinyl with sleeve notes, it celebrates Purpleman, also known as Purple Man or Peter Yellow, a prominent Jamaican dancehall deejay of the 1980s. Known for his distinctive vocal style and vibrant stage presence, Purpleman was a significant figure in the Jamaican sound system scene, engaging audiences with his lively performances. His stage name, Purpleman, likely derived from a unique skin condition that made his skin appear purple under specific lighting. His lyrics, typical of the dancehall genre, often explored themes of social commentary, revelry, and self-promotion. Notable tracks include 'Feeling Irie,' 'Sandra Lee Buy Big House Fi Me,' and 'King On The Way.' Purpleman's influence on dancehall music is significant, and his contributions continue to be honoured and respected. This reissued album not only sets the record straight but also celebrates his enduring impact on the genre.

Review: This wonderful reissue of Yellowman & Fathead's classic 1982 album comes pressed on 180 gram yellow vinyl complete with an insert. It's a real reggae jam that features a unique collaboration between the legendary Jamaican reggae artists and blends Yellowman's iconic dancehall style with Fathead's distinct contributions. The tracks are infused with humour, romance and playful energy that captures the essence of early 80s reggae. A must-have if you love authentic Jamaican sounds, this Burning Sounds gem is sure to bring plenty of new ears to a timeless album full of charisma and chemistry between two of reggae's most influential figures.