Next Bunny Wailer installment from Dubstore Tokyo. You know the drill: silkscreened sleeves, beautiful labels, and out of this world selecting, like this limber, jazzy gem, still wiser than Solomon.
Re-launching the Mittoo classic, aimed one step beyond, with intrepid space synths and drum machine (and mangled chanting on the flip). Strong Upsetters flavours.
Characteristically daring report of Haile Selassie’s visit to JA, kicking off in Amharic. A knees-up crossing of gospel, ska and rhythm and blues — the pianist and drummer taking different views — with vocal backing by The Gaylads. Plus a Soul Brothers on the flip.
Lovely Impressions impressions on the eve of the group’s departure from Brentford Road.
Sid Bucknor supervising a mix of master musicians from the London scene and JA visitors — Rico, Tan Tan, Lester Sterling, Winston Wright and co. Ace versions of Rebel Woman and the Lumumbo rhythm for starters.
The truly iconic compilation from 1965, when ska was in its full, irrepressible, post-colonial glory.
Cool Down Your Temper, followed by Jah Jah The Conqueror… murders she wrote. The Agrovators in the place, with Augustus Pablo; Bunny Lee at the desk; two killer Tubbys dubs to close out the sides.
A deadly, zonked Soul Syndicate excursion on Westbound Train, with Keith Hudson as the Fat Controller. Introducing a young LT — his first recording, he says — stylistically indebted to Dennis Brown.
Orange vinyl.
The reissue of Steve Barrow’s brilliant, powerhouse selection for Blood And Fire.
Barrington Levy’s Poor Man Style album, Scientist & Prince Jammy Strike Back, The Viceroys’ We Must Unite, Tristan Palma’s Settle Down Girl… and a couple of Majestarians.
Celebrated dubplate version of DEB’s Promised Land; and Earl 16 on Trial And Crosses.