Coming soon: Reggae Classics/Ska

Review: Jamaican-born, UK-adopted outfit Symarip made ska history in 1969 with a record that would come to define a subculture. Their riotous debut still thumps with all the urgency of the skinhead reggae movement it helped crystallise. The stomping opener needs little introduction, but this reissue offers more than nostalgia: the original singer Roy Ellis returns to the mic, bringing fresh weight to every line. Cuts like 'Phoenix Reggae (Phoenix City)' and 'Skin Flint' retain their punchy swagger, while the extended 12" version of 'Skinhead Moonstomp' seals the package with floor-ready attitude. The record now arrives on Burning Sounds with extensive sleeve notes and a Q&A with Ellis, reaffirming the album's significance. For fans of classic ska and early reggae, this is essential listening that still dances at full throttle.