High Note/Dub Store Japan Vinyl & CDs

Review: High Note and Dub Store Japan delve into the 1977 album "One Essence" by Cedric "Im" Brooks for their next tasty 7". The saxophonist, composer and musical arranger who fused reggae with jazz, sometimes under the watchful eye of the legendary Coxsone Dodd, was a pioneering force in the evolution of reggae away from its more traditional roots. A-side "Blackness Of Darkness" is a gorgeous cut with a sombre lead trumpet line hanging above bubbly, earthy drums and embellished with golden chords and funky bass that will surely find favour with fans of parties like You're A Melody. "Africa Calling" is a slower, deeper lament with more recognisable reggae rhythms.