Back catalogue: Reggae

Review: Legendary reggae group Black Uhuru's double album Positive & Positive Dub blends their iconic roots reggae sound with modern dub influences. Originally released separately in 1987, the albums are now reunited as a double vinyl gatefold featuring their original covers. Produced by Grammy-winner Horace Campbell, Positive includes ten powerful cuts while Positive Dub offers up eight mesmerising versions that were recorded at renowned studios like Tuff Gong and mixed at Lion & Fox in Washington. With over 40 years of reggae excellence and a Grammy-winning legacy, Black Uhuru continue to captivate.

Review: The latest compilation on CTR, curated by Jason Boardman of Before I Die Records, dives into the rich, underground landscape of early 1980s post-punk. This collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the era's DIY ethos, featuring rare and never-before-heard tracks that encapsulate the innovative spirit of the time. From the 2-Tone-influenced Skeet in Coventry to the dub experiments of Surface Mutants with Cabaret Voltaire, the album uncovers a trove of hidden gems that have largely flown under the radar. One track even boasts a unique post-punk diss track, adding a touch of rebellion to the mix. Boardman has unearthed a variety of tracks, some even sampled by the likes of DJ Shadow, showcasing the lasting influence of these obscure artists. The compilation highlights a time when independent musicians, studios, and labels banded together, bypassing major labels in pursuit of their creative vision. While it's not a comprehensive guide to the era, this album shines a spotlight on the overlooked and underappreciated, giving these artists the recognition they've long deserved, not to mention the enduring power and creativity of the post-punk underground.

Review: Dennis Bovell's Sufferer Sounds vinyl compilation showcases an essential chapter in his diverse career, focusing on his contributions from 1976 to 1980. With 15 tracks, including a rare dub mix of Janet Kay's celebrated Silly Games, all meticulously restored and remastered at Dubplates & Mastering in Berlin. The vinyl edition brings a fresh and clear sound to these tracks, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the warmth and depth of Bovell's arrangements. Renowned for blending genres, Bovell's exceptional production skills shine throughout this collection. Accompanying the music are insightful notes by Bovell that provide reflections on each track's creation. The sequencing of the album takes the listener on a compelling journey through his emotive and dynamic music, revealing the depth of his talent. One of the best compilations we have heard in some time.

Review: This 2xCD set celebrates Dennis Bovell's exceptional talent during the golden years of reggae, from 1977 to 1981, a time when he was also playing a pivotal role linking punk and post-punk to reggae via collaborating with Orange Juice and producing key records such as The Slits' debut Cut. Featuring a mix of major hits and rare tracks, this collection highlights his brilliance as a producer, arranger and pioneer of roots, dub and lovers rock. Not only was he one of the first to blend disco with reggae but he was also important for fusing the disco standard 12" and using for Lovers Rock artists. His use of the format to create dynamic dub edits is a standout element, cementing his legacy in reggae production. Disc 1 includes Errol Dunkley's title track, Marie Pierre's soulful gems and Janet Kay's classic 'Silly Games', which brought lovers rock to mainstream audiences. Tracks like Errol Campbell's 'African Queen', Angelique's 'Cry' and Africa Stone's 'Choose Me' capture the era's emotional depth and Bovell's masterful touch. Disc 2 delves into 12" extended mixes, showing Bovell's innovative fusion of reggae and disco. A lifetime of great music within just two discs.

Review: Dennis Bovell's Sufferer Sounds compilation highlights a pivotal period in his prolific and diverse career, focusing on his work from 1976 to 1980. Best known for traversing reggae, dub, lovers rock, post-punk and disco, Bovell's production genius is evident throughout the album. Featuring deep cuts and lesser-known versions, the compilation includes works from his time with the Jah Sufferer Sound System, showcasing Bovell's ability to craft dynamic, emotionally resonant music. The CD version offers 15 tracks, including a rare dub mix of Janet Kay's iconic hit 'Silly Games', lovingly restored and remastered at Dubplates & Mastering in Berlin. This version features Bovell's intricate arrangements with a pristine sound, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the depth of his production. Accompanied by track-by-track notes written by Bovell himself, Sufferer Sounds offers fascinating insights into the creation of these tracks, bringing listeners closer to the mind of a reggae pioneer. This carefully sequenced collection showcases Bovell's versatility across reggae, dub, and lovers rock, making it an essential listen.

Review: Recorded at Channel One in February 1982, Rastafari Liveth! is Peter Broggs' definitive recording and it is no surprise, then, that is backed by the legendary Roots Radics band featuring drums from Style Scott and bass from Flabba Holt with percussionists Bongo Herman & Eberton also involved. It was mixed by Scientist and Solgie and was the first release for Doctor Dread's label RAS (Real Authentic Sounds). Featuring tracks like 'Jah Jah Voice Is Calling,' 'Rastafari Liveth,' 'International Farmer,' and 'Just Because I'm a Rastaman' this cult classic demands to be cranked up loud.

Review: First released in 1972, this authentic and essential reggae album showcased the most popular tracks recorded by a young Dennis Brown under the guidance of renowned producer Derrick Harriott. The third album in Brown's career, Super Reggae and Soul Hits marked a significant turning point and helped to establish him as a versatile singer-songwriter capable of crafting deeply soulful music. It highlighted his ability to connect with an adult audience as he explored the interaction of reggae with soul influences, emotional depth and musical maturity. This album played a crucial role in solidifying Brown's reputation as one of reggae's most influential artists so remains an essential part of his story.

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.