Back catalogue: Reggae

Review: This is a brand new cut by Jamaican rootsman Icho Candy, who still ploughs on strong despite first making his way in the 1970s. Characteristically for Icho, 'Pave The Way' is a ghostly bop, coming packed with antistate political quips - "you reap the system... you reap your liberty" - and a hauntingly soft and almost defeated feel. Yakka comes through on the version, which begins with a beautiful set of harmonies before launching into a huge spring-reverbed, cavernous bubbling.

Review: Two previously unheard righteous anthems from the sweet-voiced Icho Candy. The A side, 'Get Up Natty' was cut at Channel One in the mid-eighties, with backing by the Gifted Roots Band, and features an instantly recognisable bed of squelchy FX, elastic synth leads and choppy upstrokes, while the flip is an emotive new cut featuring legends from the Firehouse and Channel One production camps on the riddim. It's great to hear Icho still in fine style, delivering a timeless anthem with a positive message. Both sides also include excellent dubwise versions. Another jewel in the constantly expanding Digikiller catalogue!

Review: Inokashira Rangers are world-renowned for their abilities in covering some of the world's best-known songs in the modes of ska and reggae, with versions of 'Smells Like Teen Spirit', 'Creep' and 'I'm Not In Love', all laid to sweet 7", dominating stores in recent years. Now the Japanese covertones throw a curveball, for once reworking some honoured dance music cuts. 808 State's 'Pacific State' and Derrick May's 'Strings Of Life' get a thorough skinhead reggae re-examining.

Review: In a fresh outpouring of covers 7"s, Japanese rocksteady version band Inokasira Rangers share the best of several new vinyl cuts, this time remoulding The La's's Britpop masterpiece 'There She Goes' into fine reggae pottery. Once referred to as "the second national anthem of the UK" in a period of national musical fervour, the heartsick one-hit-wonder anthem gets a thorough Hammond-organ-ising here, sacrificing lyrics or vocals for a single transcribed organ line. On the B is also a version of Janet Jackson's unforgettably minor-keyed Clav-house steamer, 'Together Again', this time rock-steadied to a similarly beautified degree.

Review: Over the last decade, Inokashira Rangers have proved that you can turn pretty much any track - whether it's a TV theme tune, rave banger or grunge classic - into a reggae or rocksteady gem if you know what you're doing. They're at it again on their latest "45", which opens with a storming, largely instrumental reggae-soul version of Edwin Starr's 1968 soul classic '25 Miles'. Their version - full of reverb-laden drums, fuzzy organ motifs, mazy solos, warming bass and JB's guitars - is naturally hugely different to Starr's version, but recognisably the same song. Their flipside take on Spinners' classic 'It's a Shame' is rather more difficult, with the trio slowing it down to a skanking reggae crawl while retaining the familiar melodic refrain.

Review: Intensified, a longstanding UK ska band, returns with their first studio release in 13 years, presenting the delightful single 'SKA Campbell' b/w 'HAMSTERDAM.' True to their signature style, Intensified delivers a sweet and melodic ska anthem paying tribute to saxophone legend Dennis 'Ska' Campbell in 'SKA Campbell,' while 'HAMSTERDAM' offers a funky reggae nod to keyboard player Steffi's favorite TV show, The Wire. This release, featuring an infectious instrumental, sets the stage for their forthcoming 6th studio album later this year. The band's commitment to honoring ska's greats, exemplified by 'SKA CAMPBELL,' is commendable, showcasing their deep-rooted respect for the genre's history. Moreover, the diverse sleeve designs and vinyl colours add a unique touch, ensuring this release stands out in the ska community. Overall, Intensified continues to impress with their timeless sound and unwavering dedication to ska music.

Review: Intensified's latest offering, 'Ska Campbell' b/w 'Hamsterdam,' marks their triumphant return after 13 years with a limited edition vinyl release. 'Ska Campbell' pays homage to saxophone legend Dennis 'Ska' Campbell, while 'Hamsterdam' is a funky reggae tribute to the TV series The Wire. The band's authentic 60s ska, rocksteady, and reggae sound shines through, showcasing their undeniable love for the genre. With only 500 hand-numbered copies available in five different sleeves and vinyl colours, this release is a must-have for ska enthusiasts. The band's enduring status are evident in their confident delivery and wide appeal, making this single a welcome addition to their esteemed discography.

Review: Sofia Manari and Inokasira Rangers are not strangers to working together on their own unique covers of some classic sounds, all reworked into fresh dub grooves. This time they turn their focus to 'First Love, which is a lush listen with Manari's soothing and sultry vocal delivery. On the flip is another laid-back dub sound with a constant rhythmic pulse, natty chords and more clean and soulful vocals from Manari making this a sweet little 7" from Japan's finest, Parktone.