Back catalogue: Reggae

Review: For the latest volume in their ongoing "Reggae Cut Loud" series of seven-inch singles, Harlem Shuffle Records have gathered together two suitably rare gems from the undisputed king of rocksteady, Alton Ellis, neither of which have previously featured on a "45". A-side "Pumping In", an early rocksteady treat, is rich in R&B style guitar riffs, warm bass and an echo-laden vocal from Ellis. It was recorded in 1970 but for one reason or another only surfaced a few years ago. Flipside "Knock On Wood", a cover of the Eddie Floyd soul favourite, was recorded a number of times by Ellis; this version is the superior 1972 Joe Gibbs take, which boasts some superb Hammond organ sounds and a defiantly dub-wise reggae riddim. It's absolutely essential.

Review: The latest release from Peckings Records features two classic tracks that exemplify the golden era of reggae. On the A-side, Alton Ellis and Phyllis Dillon deliver a heartfelt rendition of 'I'm Just A Guy,' showcasing their harmonious vocals and timeless appeal. The B-side presents Joya Landis's 'I Love You Baby,' a soulful tune that complements the A-side's emotive tone. This 7" single is a must-have for collectors and reggae enthusiasts, offering a nostalgic journey into the rich musical heritage of the genre.

Review: This reissue brings a fascinating piece of reggae history back to the light, showcasing a unique collaboration between Alton Ellis and Slim Smith. Recorded in 1971 at Chalk Farm Studios, this 7-inch single captures a moment of creative exploration and cross-cultural fusion. Side A features 'Sho-Be-Do-Be-Do (I Love You)', a mid-tempo soul duet where their voices intertwine in a display of effortless harmony and heartfelt emotion. Their performance blends soulful melodies with a distinctly Jamaican rhythmic sensibility. On the flip, Ellis takes the lead with 'Be True', a reggae-funk infused cut that highlights his versatility. The track is a testament to Ellis' ability to seamlessly blend genres. Originally intended for release on A&M Records, these tracks were part of a larger project spearheaded by producer Stanley Pemberton. This reissue sheds light on this intriguing chapter in reggae history and allows listeners to appreciate the artistry of Ellis and Smith in a new light. Their collaboration is a testament to their vocal prowess and their ability to create music that transcends cultural boundaries.

Review: You know by now that Soul Jazz never misses and this new 7" is no different - a raw as you like and heavy roots reggae classic from Alton Ellis. It's hypnotic in a dark manner with surreal synths and muggy atmospheres on 'Blackish White' which also features some next-level wordsmithery of the sort you don't often get in reggae. The Sound Dimension step up on the flip with their own dubbed out version to make this a red hot release for sound system freaks.

Review: Alton Nehemiah Ellis was known as Mr Soul of Jamaica thanks to the hugely expressive voice he was gifted with. He also had a fine knack for writing great songs and always brought real emotions to his work. That is typified here as he linked with The Flames as well as Tommy McCook & The Supersonics for the buttery smooth and impassioned 'If I Could Rule The World' with its natty riffs, swaggering drums and of course golden vocals. Tyrone Evans takes acre of the flip with a version that is more upbeat and optimistic as a result.

Review: Alton Ellis' "I'm Still In Love" is one of Jamaica's most famous songs. It has a rich history, too, that was the inspiration for Althea and Donna's 1997 smash "Uptown Top Ranking" and here it gets a loud-cut 12" pressing that allows it to soar. It's a track full of longing, with dusty keys and a natty bassline finished off with gorgeous vocals. The flipside houses the Soul Vendors' "Just A Bit Of Soul" featuring Jackie Mittoo. It's a more upbeat ditty with bumpier drums and jazz flecked keys to get you grooving.

Review: Alton Ellis's Mr Soul Of Jamaica is a 1967 classic from the many who was credited as being of the genre's most innovative talents. He was given the nickname of "Godfather of Rocksteady" and was inducted into the International Reggae And World Music Awards Hall Of Fame in 2006. This record is one that is drenched in wonderful melodies that are sure to turn the heads of both vintage reggae fans and those with a Leo of soul music. His voice is the star of each of the tunes here with many gems along the way such as 'You Make Me So Very Happy', 'Why Birds Follow Spring' and 'Ain't That Lovin' You'.

Review: Jamaican singer-songwriter Alton Nehemiah Ellis OD has been inducted into the International Reggae And World Music Awards Hall Of Fame since 2006 - just two years before his death - which shows how much he contributed to the genre in his heyday. And that was the early 70s, when most of the music on this new album Valley Of Decision: The Collection is taken from. His style was high-impact reggae, often delivered with extra power from superb horn arrangements. For many, he was an important pioneer in the development of what became known as the rocksteady style and as such was known as the Godfather of Rocksteady.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


Alton Ellis's Mr Soul Of Jamaica is a 1967 classic from the many who was credited as being of the genre's most innovative talents. He was given the nickname of "Godfather of Rocksteady" and was inducted into the International Reggae And World Music Awards Hall Of Fame in 2006. This record is one that is drenched in wonderful melodies that are sure to turn the heads of both vintage reggae fans and those with a Leo of soul music. His voice is the star of each of the tunes here with many gems along the way such as 'You Make Me So Very Happy', 'Why Birds Follow Spring' and 'Ain't That Lovin' You'.

Review: Alton Ellis has been a reggae legend since the 1950s when he first started the work that would come to shape the genre and inspire generations with his artistry and innovation. Known for his versatility in the studio, Ellis continually evolved and produced many timeless classics and his 1980 release, Many Moods Of, remains a landmark album. It shows his roots period with heartfelt emotion and masterful songwriting defining each tune with a stellar lineup of musicians and producers embodying the peak of reggae's most soulful years. Critically acclaimed upon release, the album's rich, powerful sound is just as potent now over 40 years later.

Review: Alton Ellis is known as the Godfather of Rocksteady and has put out several key albums such as Mr Soul Of Jamaica from 1967. The genre innovator has the smoothest of smooth voices and shows that again on Sings Rock & Soul, which is actually heavy on the soul and light on the rock. This limited edition reissue on Studio 1 sounds superb and all of the 12 tracks are gorgeous things with unhurried reggae rhythms and his soaring vocals backed by sympathetic guitar riffs and neat chords.