Review: Here's a precious reissue of a 12" single by Abbashantie (not to be confused with UK sound system giant Aba Shanti) and Neville & Jerry. Both were Jamaican reggae vocal duos who recorded for Wackie's, a still-going-strong US label and studio founded by Lloyd Barnes aka Wackie's or Bullwackie. The single was originally released in 1980 and features two utter groundshakers: 'Break Down The Walls' by Abbashantie and 'Abbashantie Rock' (with Wackie's Rhythm Force).
Review: The studio of Harry J's in Jamaica has turned out another pair of belters here. This limited edition and hand-numbered 7" features two killer 1969 tunes. The first is a bittersweet roots tune with a lead trumpet that does all the work. It's in conversation with the organ below and as they to and fro, expressing their pair, the bass rumbles and the percussion jangles. As well as that standout from Richard Ace, the flip-side has a super rare tune 'Candy Lady' by Hugh Black & George Ferris. It's another earthy tune with lovestruck vocals.
Review: This hidden gem from 1975 was self-released on Glen Adams' Capo label out of Brooklyn, New York. 'Stay Dread' rather flies under the radar but is a must-listen, especially the outer limits version on the flip which is a brilliantly psychedelic dub with a mad cosmic lead that takes you into all new realms. The original is a great example of reggae's raw energy and experimental spirit with Adams' distinct vocal style adding a unique touch to proceedings. The rare original has become a sought-after find for reggae heads so do not sleep on this reissue which is unpolished yet powerful.
Review: Marseille label Secousse turn their attention to the debut single of Senegalese musician Maxidilick Adioa. 'Toubab Bile' was originally released in 1987, and it tackles the harrowing story of the West African soldiers betrayed by the French army in 1944. Having worked as a percussionist for years before that, Adioa invested his own money into recording the track in Paris and finding distribution through Safari Ambiance until his talents were picked up on by Island's Chris Blackwell. The track single-handedly launched Adioa's solo career, and it's not hard to hear why - the perfect synergy of West African and Jamaican music with a potent call for justice in its heart.
Albert "Alchemist" Thompson - "Promise Land Version" (3:34)
Review: Albert "Alchemist" Thompson's Promise Land comes courtesy of Freestyle Records and has great appearances on the mic from reggae and dancehall greats Frankie Paul, Joseph Cotton, Prince Malachi and Anthony John. It has never before been released and has had a long maturation period over the last 30 years. Albert Thompson was chief engineer at I&I Sound Recording Studio once it left LA and head to Jamaica and he saw work with greats like Dennis Brown, Bunny Wailer and Gregory Isaacs. He laid down these rhythms in 1991 during some downtime and then added the vocals 16 years later in London when working with talented local and touring Jamaican artists.
Review: Partial are busy reissuing a series of the best works from pioneering UK dub outfit Alpha & Omega. They are known for the likes of their timeless 1991 reggae album Overstanding and seminal 'Shashamani' tune which came on a 1996 long player called Voice in the Wilderness. This 7" offers up 'Bush Ganja' which came originally back in 2006 and was made as a one-off with Gregory Isaacs, the late and great Jamaican singer. It has pretty much been sold out since the day it dropped but now comes back to a sound system near you with its ice cold dub, head twisting electronics and impassioned vocal. Check the flip for a mad dub.
Review: Alpha & Omega is a legendary dub duo and despite them having many superb sounds to their credit, this one is a real standout. 'One Culture' pens with heavy bass as you would expect, but the alluring Indian vocal up top is even more hypnotic. It has a transcendental feel and is soulful and smoky while warped synths rumble away beneath the dusty drums. It's a real mental trip. On the flip is 'One Prayer' which is paired right back to dubby rhythms and subtle vocals are smudged and smeared throughout. Both of these are perfect for lazy Sunday afternoons in the sun.
Review: Blimey, if this isn't major meeting of musical Midas minds then we don't know what is. Alter Echo, E3 and Headland all collaborating with legendary dub flautist Diggory Kenrick. "Temple Duel" sets the scene in deep underground chambers, untouched by the sun. Reverb space is our only guide and ritual combat is the only way out as we make our way through subsonic 808 bass foundations, a near-industrial mid-range bass guitar groove, stiff snares, stick-fighting percussion and Diggory's torchlight melody. A truly fluid hypnotic narrative that arcs through the dark, if you're looking for an even foggier route flip for "Temple Dub" where the torch is extinguished and you have nothing but your sonic wits to take you home. Only Diggory knows if you make alive or not...
Joe Gibbs & The Professionals - "Calico Suit" (3:43)
Review: Althea & Donna combined to beautiful effect on the Joe Gibbs label here with a tune that very much remains an iconic reggae anthem. It was originally released in 1977 and effortlessly captured the spirit of Jamaican music of the day with its irresistible blend of ska, rocksteady and reggae influences. Althea & Donna's stylish vocals are paired with expert production that is full of catchy hooks and neat riffs. The clever lyrics and upbeat rhythm mean it still sounds like a hit as it did back when it did well on the UK charts.
Review: Altone, an emerging talent in dub techno, delivers the Invincible Nature EP on Denmark's Echocord Records, a label revered for over two decades. The EP showcases Altone's knack for crafting deep soundscapes. Side-1 features 'Naturally Unnatural,' presenting two distinct takes: the first is sparse and minimal, epitomizing classic dub techno, while the second version is more techy and aggressive, adding an edge to the composition. Side-2 brings remixes of 'Unnaturally Balanced.' Thomas Fehlmann, a legendary producer, lends his expertise to the 'Naturally Flowing' remix, infusing it with a fluid, dynamic quality. The 'Another Channel' version rounds out the EP with a quintessential dub treatment, staying true to the genre's roots. Invincible Nature EP is a compelling showcase of versatility in dub techno and Echocord's enduring influence in the scene.
Review: The always on point iNdicia Dubs invite you to get down to their latest riddim at the hands of Kibir La Amlak. Entitled '"Ancient Pulse" this new vinyl only missive has an enacting lead line that flutters away over this label's trademark drums: they are neon, steel plated, contemporary and do a good job of making you move. A tripper dub takes care of the A1 while on the flip there are even more whacked out versions with endless echo and reverb and natty keys, while "Divine Timing" is driven by a drilling bassline that burrows superbly deep.
Review: Horace Andy dropped one of his most well-known cuts back in 1987. It's a lovely rootsy dancehall skank in the form of 'What A Problem' that he produced himself alongside Michael Taylo and Andy Bassford. His mic work is exceptional as he twists and turns his vocals to ride on top of the drums and deliver his message with style and grace in his textbook smooth vocal tone. The version on the flip drills down into darker and more gritty dancehall vibes with the fat bassline front and centre next to plenty of echo and reverb.
Review: Jamaican reggae legend Horace Andy has many great tunes in his back catalogue, but 'Get Down' is a classic roots gem often said to be one of his best. It's a signature sound with his trademark smooth and soulful vocals and is known for its deep, socially conscious lyrics and heavy bassline. This is one of those tunes that showcases Andy's ability to blend powerful messages with mellow rhythms and now gets pressed up to a tidy limited green smokey vinyl 7" thanks to Ruderalis. It comes with a fine instrumental version on the B-side
Review: Hope & Faith Records has put together three different 7"s featuring the original 'Standing Tall' riddim, which is a slick production in the early 70s roots reggae style. Acclaimed Spanish singer Payoh Soul Rebel is behind one, the female harmony trio from Basque reggae band Tacumah another, and this one comes from Jamaican legend Horace Andy who brings a fresh take on the classic roots sound. His smoky vocals bring real warmth and depth while a flip-side dub goes deep.
Review: Joe Armon-Jones brings a fresh layer of depth to his ever-evolving sound with 'Sorrow', a track that takes its time to breathe, much like a slow unfolding narrative. The piece moves with a deliberate grace, weaving together his distinctive jazz-infused piano work with an underlying electronic pulse. It starts subtly, slowly layering textures that push the track into deeper emotional terrain. The interplay between live drums and ambient synths creates a fluid yet focused atmosphere, reflecting the introspective mood the title suggests. With 'Sorrow', Armon-Jones proves once again that he is unafraid to let his ideas mature at their own pace, leading listeners through a rich, captivating experience.
Review: As the Darker Shades Of Roots label hurtles towards its 50th release, it turns to the fine pairing of Ash & Willow. This fledgling outfit debuted in 2016 but has been slow to release. Last year was a busy one with a trio of new 7"s that are now finally arriving to us. 'The Heart Of All Men' opens up this one with slow-motion rhythms and some organic percussion that adds the detail. On the flip, the ice picks up a little and the sun shines down bright over meandering leads on The Shades's 'Revelation 21.'
Review: Darker Shades Of Roots explores just that and has done so expertly over the course of a half-century of releases to date. The New Year starts off for them with another tasteful two-tracker that pairs a couple of contemporary artists. Ash & Willow are up first and offer 'I & I Stand' which has classic melodica leads worked into a tight rhythm that's detailed with earthy guitar riffs and lush chords, and of course some fine mic work. The Shades's 'Brother Sun, Sister Moon' then comes through with more whimsical melodica sounds and moodier vocals.
Review: Mikal Asher, a scion of Jamaica's Morgan family dynasty, reunites with Chocolate Star Records here and does so with a collaboration with disco legend Gary Davis. Asher, akin to his brother Denroy Morgan, upholds the family's legacy of righteousness through music. Known as the Binghiman, he crafts captivating tunes with profound lyrics and has recorded in Ghana's Hustle Hard Studios and collaborated with industry pioneers in Kingston and Brooklyn, setting new standards in musical excellence along the way. Here, 'Wicked Ah Fi' transforms into a modern dub stepper, while 'Black Woman' offers a soulful, laid-back dedication to Davis' wife, Sonjia. This 7" also comes with innovative remixes from California-based DJ and producer Knoe1.
Review: Detroit godfather Juan Atkins and Berlin techno legend Moritz Von Oswald return as Borderland, one of several collaborations since 1992 and following up their 2016 album for Tresor: the Transport LP which again consolidated both respective artist's solid studio experience, honed over the last 30 years. The funky, slightly bumpin' and absolutely addictive hi-tech soul of "Concave 1" will have you grooving away on a late night dancefloor in Berlin or beyond with its evocative and life affirming vibes. On the flip "Concave 2" further explores their studio refined sequences on this heady and hypnotic journey full of woozy arpeggios, steely rhythms and dubby bass frequencies.
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