Juno Recommends Reggae Classics: October 2024

Review: This rare gem from Jackie Mittoo, originally released in 1979 on the elusive Rite Sound Inc. label, gets a long-overdue reissue, much to the delight of collectors and reggae aficionados alike. Initially sold without a jacket, the album's mysterious origins only add to its allure. Featuring Mittoo's signature keyboard mastery and dub-heavy sound, the record opens with the atmospheric 'Russian Satellite' and flows seamlessly through the standout trio of 'Harder Than The Rest', 'Stepping Tiger' and 'World Of Love'.

Review: A slice of Daft Punk covers levity from Sokabe Keiichi & Inokasira Rangers for Park Tone Records on 7" vinyl. Here the Japanese rocker and his fellow band the Inokasira Rangers lay down an unheard-of instrumental rocksteady rollick, against which the vocal core of Daft Punk's 'One More Time' is overlaid, as seamless in feel as a freshly fined cloth on a varnished coffee table. The track also comes backed by the original Hammond triller 'Boku No Siawase', a ploddier reggae treat in stereo, against whose offbeat rummage Keiichi's voice glides in the manner of a beautiful bird's call.

Review: Herb Dub Collie Dub first came out in 2001 under the Skatalites' favourite lable Motion Records, based in London. Eight herbal, experimental dub excursions came by way of an at least fifteen-strong supergroup and advisory circle, which included Jeff Teader, Don D Junior, Augustus Pablo, Jackie Mittoo, Lee "Scratch" Perry and Leroy "Horsemouth" Wallace - making this a star-studded record if we've ever encountered one. Such sonic diamante is well worth the listen too, as these eight tracks command a rightfully weird groove; aside from their measuredly rigid pace, the likes of 'Roots Dub' and 'Dumboo Dub' make use of surreal reverse-shot sound effects, producing the effect of a sort of lemony miasma; what's more, there's even a funk breakbeat detour on 'Sealing Dub', providing an ample window into the drumming chops of Benbow Creary - for any junglists out there, we're happy to tip you off: the A4 is a wonderful sample source indeed!

Review: A fascinating new long-player from Justin Robertson under his new Five Green Moons alias, marking another new stylistic turn for the Mancunian DJ and producer, whose main remit is house music to most. Moon 1, by contrast, is not "Justin at the house controls", but rather him delving into "his roots, digging around through the likes of P.I.L, Gang Of Four, On-U-Sound, Current 93, Coil, Sabres Of Paradise and all manner of post punk echoes", a "haunted ballroom of memories", in the artist's own words. Our glossing of Moon 1 is that this is probably the best post-punk come dubstep crossover record you'll hear in 2024, though it does also cross over into wonky beats and monologuing ambi-trance on occasion too. The record moves increasingly mauve-psychedelic as it progresses, with 'Everything's A Song In A Sound World' paring back its off-the-top vocal slogans for a purer exercise in rattling psyche-dub and 'I See All And I See Nothing' admitting to the contradiction of humility and quixotism in the same fret-slid breath.

Review: Christine McNabb's UK lovers' 12" soul rarity, 'Love You / Combination', originally self-released in 1981. With backing vocals from Caron Wheeler, Black Slate's rhythm section and the in-house musicians at Eve Studios in Brockley, South London, this is a highly toned waft of steam; McNabb sings in a whistle register, insisting we're her one and only as she launches into a bopping improvisation near the midpoint, as an irresistible funk line chugs below, aplomb. 'Combination' is the name of the minimalised instrumental version: both tracks are standalone greats, and draw their inspirations from Afropop icons like Miriam Makeba, despite there being some crossover and cash-in on the emerging UK lovers' rock market.

Review: Sofia Manari and Inokasira Rangers are not strangers to working together on their own unique covers of some classic sounds, all reworked into fresh dub grooves. This time they turn their focus to 'First Love, which is a lush listen with Manari's soothing and sultry vocal delivery. On the flip is another laid-back dub sound with a constant rhythmic pulse, natty chords and more clean and soulful vocals from Manari making this a sweet little 7" from Japan's finest, Parktone.

Review: The Specials' debut album, now available in a limited clear vinyl edition with an Obi-strip, is a cornerstone of late 70s/early 80s music. As one of the leading bands on Jerry Dammers' iconic Two Tone Records, The Specials blended Jamaican ska, rocksteady, and punk energy to ignite the ska revival. Originally formed in 1977 as The Coventry Automatics, the group spearheaded a movement that inspired bands like Madness, The Beat, and The Selecter. The album includes classic tracks like 'Gangsters' and 'A Message to You Rudy', which solidified their influence. These songs capture the raw, socially-conscious energy that made The Specials a voice of their generation. Their music, driven by sharp rhythms and infectious brass sections, remains timeless, and this special edition pays homage to a pivotal era in music history. This reissue offers a must-have for both longtime fans and newcomers, encapsulating the rebellious spirit and cultural impact of The Specials' groundbreaking sound.

Review: 'Ain't No Sunshine' is one of the great soul songs. Originally recorded by Bill Withers, a legendary vocalist who simply walked away from the scene once he had said all he had to say, it has been covered many times. Here it is Yasushi Ide who steps up with a new version that comes featuring Ken Booth & U-Roy on this new 7" from Grand Gallery out of Japan. In original form, it's dubbed out to the max with oodles of echo and dark pads next to some original vocal toasting. 'Border Town' is then a more acoustic sound with gentle guitar strums and slow, persuasive rhythms.

Review: Mystic Jungle's Words Of Love on Periodica Records is a delightful throwback to the 80s, blending laid-back grooves with a summery vibe that's perfect for the dancefloor. Side-1's 'Words Of Love' captures a classy 80s dance essence, infused with a reggae groove that makes it instantly catchy. The track's smooth, breezy feel is ideal for a relaxed, sun-soaked setting. On Side-2, the extended version of 'Words Of Love' takes things up a notch by emphasising the instrumental sections. This version is tailored for DJs, offering a more focused exploration of the track's rhythmic elements, making it a great choice for extending the vibe during a set. Overall, Words Of Love is a charming release that brings the Balearic disco sound to life, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience for fans of classic dance music that blends many styles.

Review: Studio One Power Mix! is a vibrant and essential compilation from Soul Jazz Records that dives deep into the influential sounds of reggae, ska, rocksteady and more, focusing on the late 1970s, 1980s and beyond. This collection captures the essence of Studio One, the legendary Jamaican label founded by Clement 'Sir Coxsone' Dodd, which has been at the forefront of every major development in reggae music since the 1960s. By the late 1970s, Studio One had already established itself as the undisputed leader in the genre, nurturing the careers of icons like Bob Marley & The Wailers, Marcia Griffiths, The Skatalites, and Dennis Brown. During this period, long-standing artists such as Alton Ellis and Jackie Mittoo returned to the label, producing some of their most creatively fulfilling work. Meanwhile, new talents like Sugar Minott, Johnny Osbourne, and Freddie McGregor propelled Studio One into the dancehall era, pushing musical boundaries while honoring the label's roots. The compilation features a dynamic range of tracks that celebrate this golden era, from classic hits to hidden gems. Each song reflects the creativity, innovation, and unmistakable groove that have made Studio One a cornerstone of reggae history. Whether you're a seasoned reggae enthusiast or new to the genre, Studio One Power Mix! offers a great tracklist through the evolution of Jamaican music, celebrating the enduring legacy of one of its most influential labels.

Review: Names You Can Trust introduces the third instalment of its Swing-A-Ling 'Now Sounds' 7" series, a limited collection celebrating the label's long-running Jamaican music event in Brooklyn's Flatlands. These records highlight unreleased or deeply underground gems and perfectly capture the spirit of the summer dance and cookout. This year's release arrives perfectly in time for the Halloween season and revives a rare treat that is a cinematic, early 70s dark masterpiece featuring horror-themed DJ toasting. At its eerie core is the haunted Hammond organ track by Vincent Price & The Young Spirits, a nod to classic horror vibes perfect for the season.

Review: Junior Dell & The D-Lites are one of reggae's most accomplished outfits and they have a vast arsenal of tunes to back that up. This one is one of many delightful dubs - and it now makes its way to us via Original Gravity. 'East Of Hurghada' has a noodling melodic lead and nice dusty drums with a more textured horn eventually taking the main stage. On the flip, Woodfield Rd Allstars step up with 'Lickle Fat Mattress' which is another blend of ska, reggae and dub with some natty keys.

Review: R Zee Jackson's 'Row Fisherman Row EP', released on Jamwax, is a smooth fusion of roots and lovers rock. Born in Clarendon, Jamaica, Jackson (also known as Esso Jaxxon or Castro Pink) eventually moved to the United States in 1973 and later settled in Canada. There, he connected with key figures in the reggae scene, including Oswald Creary of Half Moon Studio, Doug of Comfort Sounds, and the legendary Jackie Mittoo. The EP kicks off with the title track, 'Row Fisherman Row', a melodic roots rock jam enriched with smooth dub elements. The warm, laid-back groove sets the tone, followed by 'Blackheart Man', where a deep, wobbling bass carries a more traditional reggae sound. On Side-2, 'Long Long Time' is a spiritual, echo-heavy vibe that exudes class and depth. Jackson continues to contribute to the reggae community as both a performer and producer, keeping the spirit of roots music alive.

Review: Freddie McGregor's 'No Competition', originally released in 1981, is a rare gem from the roots and lovers rock scene that has been gaining renewed attention in the underground. Now here reissued, this track showcases McGregor's smooth and timeless reggae style, reminiscent of Bob Marley's classic sound. Backed by the One Vibe Band, McGregor delivers a classy, uplifting reggae tune that radiates warmth and authenticity, marking it as a standout in his extensive catalogue. On the flip side, Joe Gibbs & The Professionals provide 'Don't Try It', an instrumental counterpart that offers a stripped-down version of the original. Their rendition is a deep, mostly instrumental dub version that emphasises rhythm and bass, allowing the groove to take center stage.

Review: Released in 1982, 35 Years From Alpha is the only solo LP by legendary saxophonist "Deadly" Headley Bennett, a towering figure in reggae history. A graduate of Jamaica's iconic Alpha Boys School, Bennett played alongside the likes of Bob Marley, The Abyssinians, and Alton Ellis, contributing to the golden era of reggae. This long-awaited reissue highlights Bennett's distinctive style, blending jazz, reggae, and dub across a range of standout tracks. The album kicks off with the energetic title track, a flying stepper that showcases Bennett's sax in full soaring flight. The jazzy tones and expressive melodies weave through the record, including the haunting 'The Danger', featuring Bim Sherman, and the bluesy 'Without A Love Like Yours'. Bennett also shines on cosmic dub-infused tracks like 'Independent Man (Horns Cut)', while 'Two From Alpha' and 'Headley's Medley' display his ruder, more experimental side. Produced by the legendary Adrian Sherwood and featuring an all-star band including Rico Rodriguez, the album serves as a fitting tribute to Bennett's unparalleled influence in Jamaican music. The reissue includes remastered sound, rare photos and two previously unreleased tracks.

Review: Tokyo Riddim Vol. 2 looks into the eclectic fusion of reggae and Japanese pop, uncovering a unique musical journey that began when Ryuichi Sakamoto traveled to Kingston in 1978. Collaborating with Jamaican icons like Neville Hinds and Rita Marley, Sakamoto's experience set the stage for a burgeoning connection between Japanese artists and Jamaican reggae. This compilation showcases tracks like Teresa Noda's 'Tropical Love' and 'Yellow Moon', highlighting the innovative blend of dub, electronic, and new wave that emerged in Japan during the late 70s and early 80s. The album features genre-bending contributions from key figures such as Yosui Inoue, Kay Ishiguro, and Tomoko Aran, who reimagined reggae with bold, unconventional styles. Tokyo Riddim Vol. 2 explores the hybridisation of these sounds, demonstrating how the exchange between Tokyo and Kingston birthed a fresh, boundary-defying genre. This collection shows Japan's experimental spirit, weaving together reggae's rhythms with the era's cosmopolitan influences, carving out a place beyond Western musical conventions.

Review: Boss Capone from The Upsessions collaborates with Keith Rowe of the legendary Jamaican duo Keith & Tex on this new release which is well worth hearing. The A-side features a love-inspired rocksteady gem while the flip offers a roots-oriented banger. Boss Capone shared his experience of making this one, saying "I recorded a song called 'My Girl Tomorrow.' I was struggling with it and wanted a voice full of soul. Keith kindly added his vocals, completing the beautiful puzzle." Each copy includes a recycled paper insert and both of these tunes will remind of summer with their earth rhythms and laidback, dusty drums.

Review: A roots reggae vocal trio, Israel Vibration was modeled after the tradition of Culture, whom they recall in both their harmonies and their politically-charged Rasta concerns. On Praises, the group is backed by the crack reggae rhythm unit the Roots Radics as well as the RAS Brass, while lead vocals and songwriting duties are spread out among the core unit. The subject matter is a laundry list of Rasta issues, including social injustice, Jah, the threat of war and positive vibrations. Sage, nourishing itals of sound spring from our speakers like delectable dub treats, as the trio talents of Apple, Skelly and Wiss (Lascelle Bulgin, Cecil Spence and Albert Craig) effuse from this fervent ninth reggae album by the band, first released on Real Authentic Sound.

Review: Judah Tafari's new 7" Great Escape / Bezos vs. Musk delivers a potent dose of classic roots reggae with deeply spiritual Rastafari themes. Though not widely known, Judah Eskender Tafari has garnered a dedicated following through his work since the late '70s. His music continues to resonate in roots reggae sound systems and DJ sets, maintaining relevance nearly fifty years later. On Great Escape, produced by Victor Axelrod for Daptone, Tafari reflects on humanity's quest for salvation, drawing on Old Testament imagery. The track's lush, authentic roots production allows Tafari's earnest vocals to shine, reminding listeners of the powerful spiritual messages that have always defined his work. On Side-2, 'Bezos vs. Musk,' adds a contemporary twist, showcasing Tafari's ability to remain both relevant an rooted in his spiritual mission.

Review: The limited edition deluxe double vinyl release of 'SLO MO' is here, featuring a stunning holographic overlay that matches the album's deep, immersive sound. Freddy's latest studio album is a nine-track journey packed with bass-heavy beats, offering both redemption and resolution. Described by Fitchie, the group's beatmaker, as "Afro rhythmic soul music," 'SLO MO' explores the rich intersection of Black music through a Polynesian lens. This strictly limited pressing is a celebration of rhythm, soul and culture, making it an essential pick-up for vinyl collectors and fans of bold, genre-defying sounds.

Review: Fat Freddy's Drop returns with their latest studio album, SLO MO, a vibrant exploration of rhythm and soul that harnases their exhilarating live performances. Described by band member Fitchie as "afro rhythmic soul music," the album reflects a unique blend of influences from Polynesia, showcasing the group's distinctive sound. Recorded in their Wellington-based BAYS studio, this sixth album marks a significant evolution, aiming to encapsulate the energy and emotion of their celebrated live shows. Comprising nine tracks, SLO MO is here on double vinyl, allowing listeners to engage with the album as a cohesive artistic experience. As the album progresses, Joe Dukie's haunting vocals invite introspection, creating a spectral quality that resonates deeply. The cover art, created by Aotearoa artist Dan Tippett, transports viewers to a dreamlike, prehistoric forest, perfectly reflecting the album's themes of connection and renewal. With SLO MO, Fat Freddy's Drop once again proves their ability to push musical boundaries while staying true to their roots, delivering a powerful statement of resilience and creativity.

Review: This wonderful horn-led instrumental gem from Chris Petter and Dave Fullwood in their Love Grocer guise makes its first ever appearance on 7". Originally released on a Dubhead 10" featuring a Cheshire Cat vocal in 2000 and then also on the Rocking with the Love Grocer album on Dubhead in 2001, this one has long been a favourite and rightly so: it shows their signature take on dubbed-out rhythms and finds them weaving in some nice hypnotic melodies with great trumpet pads bringing the good vibes.

Review: Jahug is a brand new label that kicks off with a heavy rhythm from Carl I aka producer Carl Gayle. 'Deputy Dawg' is the tune and it has a low-slung low end that is couched in plenty of warm reverb. The vocals up top are raw and unaffected and filled with a sense of yearning. Add in some fresh hits and classic reggae guitar riffs and you have a nice fresh roots cut. On the flip, more horns are brought to the fore to give it some subtle warrior energy while extra effects and fleshy reverb all add more weight to the original.

Review: After the successful digital release of Paulette Tajah's Journal Of A Butterfly EP, it's time for these sounds to make their way to vinyl for the first time ever. The of the pressing is quality is outstanding which means this is the best way to soak in the sounds of this great album. Each song is brilliantly recorded and Tajah's artistry is laid bare with fat dub drums, rich low ends and plenty of signature soulful vocals from Tajah who can sound aloof, emotive, empowering and plenty in between, as she shows here.

Review: It's beyond the basics with a fresh new dub excursion for the premium customer; Another Channel amp up the form pioneered by the patently referent Basic Channel with a worthy widescreen dub upgrade. This eight-tracker from the Polish outfit nails the latter's original formula, whose essence lay in the irresistible combo of muted low end scoop-out drums, faint squinty noises, and Renaissance-perspectival ricochets, each component of which never once settled into rhythm or sound interpretable as a copy-paste prescription. Yes the flavours here are all analogue and none 'generative', as was the original intent of the dub techno pioneers. Another Channel's emulation of the sound is as faithful as a blindfolded chaplain, the strongest testament to which has to be the tricky sizzler known as 'Solid'.