Junior Dell & The D Lites - "Cool Right Down" (3:13)
Woodfood Rd Allstars - "Cool Version" (3:15)
Review: A 45 that perfectly captures the laidback, island vibe of reggae music. Side-1 features Junior Dell & The D Lites' 'Cool Right Down', a catchy tune with an infectious island flavour. The unique vocal performance exudes a relaxed charm, paying homage to the chill personality of Jamaican life, while the smooth rhythm and warm melodies create an inviting atmosphere. Side-2 delivers the instrumental version, 'Cool (Version)', by Woodfood Rd Allstars. The track comes alive with dynamic instrumentation, allowing the rhythm section and melodic elements to shine. The absence of vocals puts a greater focus on the groove and the track's energy is elevated through its rich, vibrant instrumentation. Together, these two tracks offer a well-rounded experience of classic reggae, blending relaxed vibes with dynamic instrumental interplay.
Roots Radics Band - "Firehouse Rock" (version) (3:33)
Review: This one packs some serious heat from some of reggae's most influential names - first is The Wailing Souls, a legendary harmony group who could melt anyone's soul, and then there's the peerless studio band Roots Radics who very much laid down the temple for new dancehall reggae evolution in the 80s. This jam is taken from an album, Firehouse Rock, that was made with producer Henry "Junjo" Lawes and engineer Hopeton "Scientist" Brown. It's a buttery smooth vocal roller with earthy guitar licks and a fresh dub version on the flip. Crucial.
The Wally Brothers - "The Man Who Sold The World" (2:37)
Wally's All Stars - "The Man Who Sold The World" (instrumental) (2:25)
Review: On Side-1 of this 45, a rootsy rendition breathes new life into the original track, transforming it into a laid-back, soulful cover of an alternative classic. The Wally Brothers' 7" reissue of 'The Man Who Sold The World' offers a fresh reggae twist on the iconic David Bowie classic, later popularised by Nirvana. The reggae rhythms, smooth basslines and heartfelt vocals make this version uniquely their own, while still honouring the song's original power. Side-2 delivers a dub version of the track, providing a dynamic instrumental take that emphasises the groove and atmosphere. The dub's subtle effects and stripped-back sound, meanwhile, will excited DJ's looking for a cool groove to play.
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