WAYNE SMITH Vinyl & CDs

Review: Wayne Smith's 1985 single 'Under Me Sleng Teng' triggered a tectonic seism in the proverbial reggae dub plate, marking the moment dancehall turned digital. Built on a preset from a Casio MT-40 keyboard discovered by Smith and friend Noel Davey, its rigid, synthetic rhythm, later dubbed the 'Sleng Teng' riddim, tore through systems as though no circuit could ever be overblown. Made by Prince Jammy (soon King Jammy), it not only launched Smith's career but cemented Jammy's role as an architectonic of digital dancehall. Now reunited with its crucial dub version, A is reunited with B, regaining its early status as a catalytic and crucial pointer in the digital style, enabled by cheap gear of fine taste.

Review: Youthman Skanking, a classic roots reggae album from 1982, produced by Prince Jammy at Channel One and King Tubby's, gets a reissue on vinyl for 2024. This album includes the hit singles 'Isim,' 'Skism,' and 'Ain't No Me Without You,' alongside the authentic title track. This albym stands as a sterling addition to the Roots-based 'Waterhouse Sound,' a movement spearheaded by Black Uhuru. This album marks the beginning of Smith and Jammy's influential journey, which would later revolutionise music with their genre-defying hit 'Under Me Sleng Teng.'This rare album, finally reissued with a beautiful German pressing, showcases Smith's early style, reminiscent of Linval Thompson. Youthman Skanking offers excellent rhythms and is a true treat for reggae enthusiasts.