LINVAL THOMPSON Vinyl & CDs

Review: Originally issued in the late ’70s on Trojan, these two dub albums—produced by Linval Thompson and recorded at Channel One—capture the form at its deepest and most elemental. Long overdue for a reissue, both sets are finally brought to CD for the first time, with all twenty tracks remastered and restored to full power. As ever with Thompson, the players are elite: Sly & Robbie anchor the riddims, while the Revolutionaries stretch out into expansive, reverb-soaked territory. Cuts like ‘Rock Me In Dub’, ‘Natty Dread Dub’ and ‘Fisherman Style’ showcase the dense atmospheres and militant low-end that defined Channel One's late '70s sound. There’s a raw immediacy to these mixes—stripped of vocals and soaked in space—that still feels bracingly modern. Dub historians and newcomers alike will find plenty to lose themselves in here. A vital document of Jamaican sonic architecture at its peak.

Review: With a career spanning over 50 years, Linval Thompson stands as one of the last living legends of Jamaican reggae. As a singer and producer on the renowned Thompson Sound label, Thompson has left an indelible mark on roots reggae with hits like 'I Love Marijuana,' 'Jah Jah The Conqueror,' and 'Don't Cut Off Your Dreadlocks.' He has also produced for major artists including Barrington Levy, Eek-A-Mouse, Johnny Osbourne, and Freddie McGregor. Known for his discretion and humility, despite owning one of the largest reggae catalogs in the world, Thompson is a cornerstone of the genre. His album, Ganja Man, features ten tracks and five dub versions. The album showcases his unmistakable voice and addresses current social issues, urging listeners to fight against corruption and embrace self-improvement. The title track, 'Ganja Man,' celebrates the plant he holds dear. The album features top reggae musicians such as Roots Radics, Jammys, Med Tone, The Ligerians, Irie Ites All Stars, Nambo Robinson, and Dean Fraser, with mixing by Roberto Sanchez and Irie Ites. Notably, singer and toaster Trinity features on the track 'Tune In.' If you don't know this man, get to know him by picking up this great album.