Back catalogue: Dancehall/Ragga

Review: Bugle's fifth studio album is a powerful and introspective offering that reveals his growth as an artist and his unwavering commitment to conscious lyricism. The Jamaican reggae luminary fearlessly navigates a diverse landscape of themes, from love and life to faith and social issues, with a depth and honesty that resonates deeply. Bugle's evocative vocals, reminiscent of reggae greats like Garnett Silk and Luciano, soar over intricate rhythms and soulful melodies, drawing the listener into a world of introspection and conscious reflection. Collaborations with reggae giants like Buju Banton and Damian Marley on 'Thank You Lord' add a powerful dimension to the album, highlighting the unity and strength of the reggae community. 'Hopes (Small World)', featuring Capleton, is a fiery call to action, a sonic embodiment of the genre's ability to address social injustices and inspire change. Tracks like 'Patience, God & Time' and 'Heads Up' offer moments of quiet contemplation and encouragement, while 'Inside Warm' and 'Love Story' explore the complexities of love and relationships with a raw honesty that is both refreshing and relatable. An exploration of the human experience, a tapestry woven with threads of love, loss, faith and resilience.

Review: This Ninjapan Music Vinyl Sampler album from Japanese label Ninjapan Music is a well-assembled dive into the roster of artists they have been working with. It is their first vinyl outing and is a diverse mix of names from across a wide dub spectrum, all of whom reflect the label's commitment to pushing creative boundaries. Each track comes with some innovative production techniques that merge Japanese dub influences with contemporary beats and rhythms. Perfect for a wide range of settings, it features the likes of Any Guppy, Dan Lj, Tikaros, Mifyah and more.

Review: Phillip "Fatis" Burrell was a visionary producer who discovered and nurtured many of Jamaica's top reggae artists, including Luciano, Sizzla, and Capleton. A devout Rastafarian, Fatis demanded integrity from his artists and held them to high standards. He founded the Xterminator label, known for its tough yet soulful music and worked with legendary musicians like Sly & Robbie. Fatis formed a strong partnership and friendship with many reggae greats and collaborated on albums that shaped reggae's international presence. His sudden death at 59 left a deep void, but his legacy lives on through his music and his children, no least with this great compilation.