Back in stock: Reggae

Review: This coming together of two dub and reggae giants might never have been heard had it not been unearthed in some long-forgotten vaults. Originally recorded at some unknown point in the seventies, it follows their debut album Ital Dub, and later King Tubby Meets The Rockers, and is just as vital. Lead by the trademark harmonica expressions of Pablo, with the contagious rhythms of Tubby, it is a free flowing record that explores a number of different moods and grooves from deep and hazy to more life affirming and direct. As a result, it keeps you utterly locked throughout.

Review: Functional Designs is the newest album from Detroit-based Deepchord, who has long been a mainstay of Scottish techno label Soma. It is full of late-night sounds and the artist's signature designs and is a fine return to the label after five years since his last album. Each track pays out like a nighttime walk through his urban local with field recordings, holographic synth tones, cosmic sounds and the hiss of electric wires all colouring the grooves. This rich, lush techno with an electroacoustic aesthetic that makes it glisten a bit brighter. Add in heavy bass and beats and you have a modern classic.

Review: Behemoth reggae and dancehall troupe Little Lion Sounds make a riveting comeback with the reissue of Kingston Journey, first released in 2019 - this time around, we're led once again by the ear to the 'Ibbean heartland. With each track on this multifaceted stomper dedicated to a singular artist in the Little Lion roster, we're provided with ample choice of character, talent and style here. Kicking off with Jae Prynse's 'If We Only', the instrumental for which perfectly combines dancehall disjoint and reggae bubble to serene effect, we're first met with themes of militancy and hope, which continue to resound thereout. On the pure reggae side of things, Micah Shemaiah's 'Parler' is a standout, a dedication to the girl of his dreams; Queen Omega's 'No Love' responds with a swerve towards lovers' dancehall, defiantly lamenting the plight of those who lack the one quality that turns the world.