Back in stock: Dub

Review: Reggae singer, soundsystem heiress and "first lady of dub" Aisha (Pamela Ross) had already made an enduring name for herself by 1997, at which point she was already ten years into her singing career. A veritable blue-blood of soundsystem culture, Aisha had also already released four albums before 'Give A Little Love', which was contrastingly released as a standalone single not intended as a part of any wider record. Notably enough, it was also produced by Mad Professor, whose boxy, whistly production brings a ghostly, wastelain feel to the otherwise lively track; the instrumental version connotes entirely different themes without the lyrics, proving the infatuating effect of Aisha's words and delivery: with her, it becomes the quintessence of lovers' rock; a rousing floor-filler and lyrical impulsion to give over, so to speak, to the virtues of sharing, as opposed to withholding for oneself, love.

Review: Milton Henry was a key figure at Wackie's in the early 80s and he left behind a legacy anchored by his acclaimed album Who Do You Think I Am?. Now, a long-overdue single release celebrates his work anew for both those who have always known and fresher ears keen to get a taste of his early authenticity. The A-side features a standout track from the album in its previously unreleased single mix and it is paired with a never-before-heard dub version. On the B-side, a fresh 2024 remix of Henry's mid-80s tune 'Make It Right' makes its mark, having originally featured on the Digital Dawn compilation. Wackie's producer Lloyd Barnes revisited the track and added a powerful horn line from Jerry Johnson, who also shines in the instrumental dub that follows.

Review: Prince David, Aba Ariginal and I Jah Saloman are some serious names when it comes to reggae. Their attest outing comes the Salomon Heritage label. First up is Prince David's original 'Solid As A Rock' with its plucked guitar riffs and endless echo doing sauce to the rolling drums and wooden hits. His stylish vocals are effortlessly cool up top, and then comes a nice deep dub version. Flip it over and you get the more rousing sounds and stepping rhythms of 'Majestic Melody' with its brassy horn leads. A raw dub of this one dials things right back to the bare essentials and it makes a different kind of mark as a result.

Review: This tasty 12" features three standout tracks that shine a light on three different talents, all of whom have their own way of blending reggae, dub and roots influences. There is just enough reverence for the traditional sounds here to make them feel utterly authentic while also looking to the future and subtle new variations on the foundations. With a powerful lyrical delivery and reggae roots style, Ranking Joe sets the tone with his smooth yet commanding presence and the dub version of the track is a signature display of Dub Creator's skill with heavy basslines and echoing effects. Teddy Dan adds his touch with his deep, soulful voice and conscious lyrics and more dub goodness seals the deal.