Heavy Al Campbell productions given the golden touch by three master engineers — Channel One dons Stanley ‘Barnabas’ Bryan and Lancelot ‘Maxie’ Mackenzie, and the one and only Hopeton Brown.
It was Al Campbell who produced Linval Thompson’s classic sides. Barnabus started up with Channel One when he was still at school; he was deejay for the sound; he learned mixing from Tubby; Sly taught him drums. Maxie was the technical whiz who built Channel One’s studio and sound-system amplifiers.
Originally out on Silver Kamel in 1981.
The commanding, concussive first LP of the Voice of Thunder, from 1976, chanting psalms and prayers over tough Lloydie Slim productions, mostly with the Aggrovators. (Plus a seemingly random Upsetters rhythm.)
‘Those who have ears to hear, let them hear.’
It’s a must.
The first decent compilation of these Clement Bushay productions.
Downright crucial Jazzbo like Step Forward Youth and Every Nigger Is A Winner.
Adrian Sherwood marshals Bruce Smith, Keith Levene, Ari Up, and Crucial Tony; and George Oban, Eskimo Fox, and Style Scott, from African Head Charge.
Originally released in 1975. Featuring guest musicians Ken Boothe, Delroy Washington, Bob Davis, Gene Rondo, and former members of the Cimarons. .. and a sprinkling of Black Ark magic.
Aka the Clem Bushay All Stars, including Candy McKenzie, Dennis Bovell, Janet Kay, Jimmy Mack, Junior English, Moon Rocks and Zabandis…
From 1977.
Originally out in 1982 on the London label Arts & Crafts, heralding a stint in the city for the great singer, and opening a collaboration with producer Stafford ‘Mafia Tone’ Douglas. All self-penned songs, over Roots Radics rhythms.