Authentic Golden Melodies : Augustus Pablo

With tons of Augustus Pablo music in the marketplace, I've decided to use this disc as a simple introduction to those of you who aren't familiar. This CD was released in '92 by the Rockers label, but the vinyl has been around much longer. Mostly classic Augustus cuts, my favorites on this disc are #8 (Islington Rock) and #4 ( New Lots Express) which is a perfect example of the haunting effect Pablo can produce with his melodica. This disc also includes a Satta version and an All-Star lineup of featured musicians: Robbie Shakespeare, Santa Davis, Tommy McCook, and Chinna Smith. Only ten songs total on this one makes it short but sweet.

Ini Kamoze : Ini Kamoze

This is the legendary self titled debut album of Ini Kamoze. Being a Sly & Robbie production, this album features clean beats and solid vocals from my man Ini. Although mostly known for his later works in the dancehall scene (Here Comes the Hotstepper), this album is early 80's roots at it's finest. My copy of this disc is off the Taxi label (Sly & Robbie), originally released in '83. All tracks on this disc are superb, with extended mixes and dub styles on each one. It was hard to pick, but my favorite songs off this disc are #6 (Hail Mi Idrin) and #2 (World A Music) which was most recently sampled by Damian Marley on his hit (Welcome to Jamrock). The last two tracks are "live" from England and complete with intro from the MC. This album also includes Dean Fraser on horns. This is some serious reggae that shouldn't be taken lightly.

Crucial !! Roots Classics : Bunny Wailer

What do I really need to say about the unmistakable voice of Bunny Wailer. "Crucial" is a great example of some early 80's roots lyrics from the streets and alleys of Jamaica. Bunny was their, and he knows. Sadly enough I've never seen him perform live - I've heard great things.

My Favorites on this disc include tracks #1 (Boderation), 4, 6, and 9 (Togawar Game) which is beautifully layered and a great example of some top studio work of the time. The booklet for this disc has a short write up by Roger Steffens. My copy is from 1994 off of the Shanachie label.

Blessed Youth : Hugh Mundell

Most people know Mundell from his album "Africa Must be Free by 1983", but there is so much more than that to experience. "Blessed Youth" is a great set of tracks that represents Mundell productions from '78-'81. My favorite tracks on this disc are #1,8,9, and 12. Track #1 is totally hypnotic and sets a great pace for the rest of the album. Supporting cast includes: Fully Fullwood, Chinna Smith, Santa Davis, Augustus Pablo, Pablove Black, and others ..... The accompanying booklet is in French and English, telling a brief story of Mundell and describing much of his other work. This disc is a MUST HAVE for any serious collector.

Ride On Dreadlocks : Linval Thompson

The music of Linval Thompson from 1975 - 1977. This disc is from the Blood & Fire label, released in 2000. It features extended tracks for all 11 of the heavy roots songs. Title track #3 delivers Thompson's message of "stay true to yourself" with a bass line that jumps in leaps and bounds. He performed at the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival one year and was outstanding. If you ever get the chance to see him ...... book it.

Dub Like Dirt : King Tubby

This is the legendary King Tubby, a classic dub specialist who has released a ton of material over the years. "Dub Like Dirt" is the best of ...... from 1975-1977. This disc is off the Blood & Fire label released in 1999. I bought it when it came out and it's been in rotation ever since. Solid from start to finish, there are no weak spots. The booklet is very informative with detailed breakdowns of each track. With heavy bass and very little vocal it's the perfect disc for driving ........ just let it roll !!