Top Ranking: Lifetones – For a Reason

 

For a Reason

Everything I read about Charles Dullen’s solo effort Lifetones is that it’s the direction where British Post-Punk wanted to go. I guess that makes sense (Dullen was a part of the incredible post-punk experimental group This Heat). Lifetones’ album For a Reason is an outstanding balance of funky backbeat and dub/dancehall influenced British rock from the 80’s. The drums sometimes sound chopped and sampled which is funny because this a golden nugget for crate diggers. Great summer listening. Check it.

Lifetones – For a Reason

Top Ranking: Max Romeo and The Upsetters – War Ina Babylon

War Ina Babylon

Listening to this record is a trip. you’ll find yourself thinking that it’s some sort of “greatest hits of reggae” album compiled by some guru who “really knows his shit”. It’s a beautiful piece of work. Lee Scratch Perry’s house band, the Upsetters, team up with “Dirty Boy” Max Romeo. A Razor sharp rhythm section and soulful horns strut up and down your brain swaying back and forth to the upswing of the melody.  This record will give you a bounce in your walk, watch out! Don’t forget, tho: this is protest music.

Max Romeo and the Upsetters – War ina Babylon

Top Ranking: Lee Scratch Perry – Scratch Attack!

"Scratch Attack!"

Scratch Attack! is a double album featuring Chapter 1 – The Upsetters and Blackboard Jungle Dub. Although this is not the original Upsetters/Blackboard jungle release these two albums contain some of the best work Perry ever released and, arguably, some of the first Dub recordings ever made.  This stuff is heavy: melodic, organic, majestic, horn driven riddims dubbed over and over again. Sounds so thick they’ll coat your brain over and leave you numb all day long. 

Lee Scratch Perry – Scratch Attack

Top Ranking: Scientist – Scientist Rids The World Of The Evil Curse Of The Vampires

Scientist

Hepton Brown (or Scientist) is the protégé of King Tubby. Teaming up with famous Producer/Arranger Henry “Junjo” Lawes they created Scientist Rids The World Of The Evil Curse Of The Vampires. Some of the heaviest dub is found on this record. Deep, low bass. Syrup-thick snare and echos so hallow that you’ll feel like the sounds are boring a hole from one side of your brain to the other. Play this record on a system with subwoofers. You’ll thank me.

Scientist – Scientist Rids The World Of The Evil Curse Of The Vampires

Top Ranking: Dennis Brown – Superstar

Dennis Brown - Superstar

In his incredibly prolific career he released more than 75 albums and was one of the pioneers of “lovers rock” (a reggae sub-genre noted for its romantic sound and content). That, and the approval of Bob Marley (Dubbed the “Crown Prince of Reggae” by Marley himself!) has proven Dennis Brown to be one of the greatest musicians to come out of Jamaica.
Superstar is only a glimpse at Brown’s music. When I first heard it I couldn’t stop listening to it. It was my gateway into reggae and will soon be yours.

Dennis Brown – Superstar