Coming soon: Dancehall/Ragga

Review: Joe Gibbs, one of Jamaica's pre-eminent reggae producers, demonstrates his seamless transition from roots to dancehall on this outstanding dub collection. Capturing the sound that dominated Jamaica between 1980 and 1982, the set features 23 heavy, hypnotic versions crafted at his Kingston studio, driven by the dynamic mixing of Gibbs' collaborator, dub engineer Errol Thompson. Celebrated instrumentalists lay down dark and compelling rhythms, giving fresh depth to popular cuts of the day, many of which have remained obscure for over 40 years. Tracks such as 'Jam Down Rock' encapsulate the era's raw dancehall energy, while dubs of major hits reveal Gibbs' ability to reinvent himself continuously. Essential for aficionados of Jamaican music's transformative early-80s period.