Bongo Ossie & The Moon Lights - "Black Society" (2:50)
Super 8 Corporation - "Black Version" (2:58)
Review: The reissue of Bongo Ossie & The Moon Lights' Black Society on Hornin' Sounds is a treasure for hardcore reggae enthusiasts. Originally from 1975, the original delivers a classic roots sound with a fantastic collaboration that resonates deeply with lovers of the genre. The timeless track exudes the soulful and socially conscious vibes characteristic of the era. On Sidde-2, 'Black Version' transforms the original into a dub version. With abundant echo effects and an engaging stop-and-start beat, this track offers a dynamic listening experience. It's perfect for DJs seeking to infuse their sets with a vintage yet innovative reggae twist.
Review: 1994's original pressing of Steely & Clevie's outstanding leftfield production with Johnny Clarke's vocals is well worth inspecting, but you might struggle to find one these days, and it'll be pricey if you do, because it's become something of a classic 45. Thankfully it gets reissued here with A-side original 'Leggo Violence' rolling lazy drums while the Clarke vocals soar high and sweet despite what they sing about. On the flip is a smooth rolling version that allows that super bassline to do its thing free from any distraction, and all with extra dub goodness.
Alton Ellis & Slim Smith - "Sho-Be-Do-Be-Do (I Love You)" (2:55)
Alton Ellis - "Be True" (2:41)
Review: This reissue brings a fascinating piece of reggae history back to the light, showcasing a unique collaboration between Alton Ellis and Slim Smith. Recorded in 1971 at Chalk Farm Studios, this 7-inch single captures a moment of creative exploration and cross-cultural fusion. Side A features 'Sho-Be-Do-Be-Do (I Love You)', a mid-tempo soul duet where their voices intertwine in a display of effortless harmony and heartfelt emotion. Their performance blends soulful melodies with a distinctly Jamaican rhythmic sensibility. On the flip, Ellis takes the lead with 'Be True', a reggae-funk infused cut that highlights his versatility. The track is a testament to Ellis' ability to seamlessly blend genres. Originally intended for release on A&M Records, these tracks were part of a larger project spearheaded by producer Stanley Pemberton. This reissue sheds light on this intriguing chapter in reggae history and allows listeners to appreciate the artistry of Ellis and Smith in a new light. Their collaboration is a testament to their vocal prowess and their ability to create music that transcends cultural boundaries.
Review: Rocksteady from Japanese crew Inokasira Rangers, whom've here teamed up with singer Hikari Suzuki for a cutely delivered cover of the Americana song 'Tonight You Belong To Me' by Nancy Sinatra. Performed in a "skinhead reggae" manner, this is a mysterious but fun version of the erstwhile lolloping 60s pop version. On the flip comes a curveball in the versioned form of one of the greatest-selling singles of all time, 'Ue o Muite Arukou' (aka. 'Sukiyaki' in English-speaking markets), originally sung by Kyu Sakamoto and again retaken by the Rangers.
Review: This new 7" from the Far East is part of the Neville King Lovers Rock Revisited series. It's as smooth and heartfelt as roots reggae gets with One Blood and Simplicity really tapping into a loved-up vibe. 'Lady Lady' has meandering basslines and lazy horns unfurling next to the buttery sweet and tender vocals which muse on a dream girl. On the B-side is 'Loving Kind', a more traditional dub with tropical island vibes, subtle steel drums and this time a female vocal delivering a carefree lament.
Review: Prince Fatty's 'Mercedes Benz' with Shniece and Horseman is a rub-a-dub version of a 1970s hit from Janis Joplin that now gets a very special pressing courtesy of Lovedub Limited. The A-side kicks off with the spine-tingling and epic original vocal before disappearing into a world of reverb. At that point the dubby low end arrives and brings a different vibe to the stunning vocals but one that really makes a mark next to new bars from Horseman, police sirens and funky riffs. It's a tough sound system groove that is backed with a fine version and has been a firm fixture of Prince Fatty's record box for a while now.
Review: Seafront International is "honoured" to unveil a poignant tribute to the late, great Sandeeno, who left us far too soon. In that regard, and with the legacy he leaves, he joins the ranks of many other reggae legends. This long-awaited release originates from a recording session a decade ago at Backyard Studio UK, and since then it has lay patiently awaiting completion. Renowned Belgian producer Martin De Ronne, also known as Unlisted Fanatic, has impeccably handled production and mixing duties. He levels up the track with the soulful embellishments of Moonshine Horns and guitar accents courtesy of Kingston Echo.
Review: Ashanti Selah's 'Love Shines Bright' delivers a powerful message of Jah praise, wrapped in a classic island sound that resonates with reggae and dub lovers. The track's uplifting rhythm and soulful vocals set a spiritual tone, invoking positivity and connection. On the flip side, J Rooney's 'Dub Shines Bright' is a masterful dub version, stripping down the original to its roots. With a spacey, atmospheric vibe, the dub version places the vocals in a new light while emphasising the groove and the intricate chords beneath. This 7" single provides a compelling contrast between message-driven reggae and its introspective, dub-infused counterpart, showcasing both artists' talents.
Review: Shades of Black is producer Paul Fox. He is based in the UK and makes roots, reggae and dub with a global fee. It has been that way since he debuted in 1992 and in the ensuing hears has worked with the likes of Nick Manasseh, Robert Tribulation, Michael Rose, Alpha and Omega and many more. Here he is dropping one of a couple of new tunes on the Africa Mae Do Leao label out of Brazil. 'Promised Land' (Binghi Mix) is super slow dub with Indian melodic references. 'Promised Dub' (Stepper Mix) is heavier and darker and more for the club.
Review: The excellent and brilliantly consistent Shades of Black brings together many Black musical genres and messages on this new 7" for the Africa Mae Do Leao label out of Brazil. It is dub with a global twist - the dig-dub low ends paired with mystic synth leads, organic percussion and echoing hits. Vocals speak with conscious messages about being the enemy, fighting back and plenty more. If you prefer it more direct then check out the dub on the flip which has more rich melodies that ring out above the tight rhythms.
Review: Digital English is a pioneering digital reggae producer who founded his own self-titled label in New York City back in 1984. Since then it has focussed on local talent from dancehall, lovers rock and roots worlds and is influenced by London's 70s sound system culture and icons like Jah Shaka, Sir Coxsone and Fatman, He is known, as a producer, for integrating a hardcore frequency into his music that reflects a blend of digital innovation and traditional reggae sounds and that is evidence here on a limited edition new 7" with Ras Sherby.
Review: Bim Sherman and Sound Iration came together for this one in 1989 on WAU! Mr. Modo Recordings. Since then it has become a cult classic that will cost a few quid on the second-hand market. But it's not easy to find and so now comes a reissue by Partial. It features two of the three tunes that were on the original with identical artwork. In original form, 'Dream' is a blissed-out bit of sun-kissed electronic reggae. The drums are crisp, Bim's vocals are clean and the organ chords suck you in deep. 'Dream' (version part 3) is a subtle rework that brings out different leads.
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