JUNIOR 'SOUL' MURVIN - PASSES AWAY

2013 will be  forever marked as the year when the world lost one of its greatest and most inspirational statesmen Nelson Mandela, whose sad passing came just days after the loss of one of Jamaica's most underrated performers, Junior Murvin.

Best known internationally for his 1976 single 'Police and Thieves', Junior first burst onto the Jamaican music scene in the late sixties with hits for Derrick Harriott and Sonia Pottinger, although it was his work with Lee 'Scratch' Perry in the mid-to-late seventies that brought him global exposure and widespread acclaim.

Immediately following his spell with the producer, he enjoyed varied success with recordings for a number of Kingston-based music makers, including Joe Gibbs and Henry 'Junjo' Lawes prior to launching his own Port Antonio-based 'Murvin' imprint, although by the 1990s had eased off from his recorded work.

Shortly before his passing on the morning of 2nd December, the singer-songwriter, whose real name was Murvin Junior Smith, had been admitted into the Port Antonio Hospital in Portland, suffering with advanced stage diabetes and hypertension.

Jago - The Wicked Try

The Wicked Try is the first release from Jago, a vocalist who has made his name over recent years as one half of much talked about production duo Hylu & Jago. The track sees Jago stepping in to his own as a vocalist to be reckoned with on a sophisticated roots production from The Sea. Joining Jago on the track is Serocee, Ghost Writerz & Junior Dangerous. On remix duty is the mighty DJ Vadim, who comes with a dubbed out hip hop mix, perfectly complementing the original. Closing the release is a Dub from The Sea himself, which is sure to set sound systems around the globe on fire.

The release is the second on Hundred Years, a new label split between London, Bristol & Paris. The release follows on from Galak Spiritual’s debut EP, released earlier in the year, and builds on the platform of authentic UK reggae & hip hop music from some of the scene’s fastest rising stars, and marks the label out as a very exciting imprint to watch over the coming months.

www.hundredyearsrecords.com  

Jago ‘Prince Lanka’ Boue

Vocalist and producer Jago came to fame as one of the front men for the dub/reggae outfit onlyjoe. He also works with DJ/Producer Hylu in the Unit 137 studio where he collaboratively produces the duo’s original riddims, as well as performing those live at events all around the country, and internationally.

He is currently working hard on his debut album which is set to be released very soon. “The Wicked Try,” his first single, sees him step in to the light as a vocal talent to watch over the coming months. Not only is his lyrical content and performance devastatingly on point, but his ability to draw together some of the brightest and most exciting singers and MC’s from around the world to perfectly compliment his own style, on any given riddim, is unparalleled.

His work with Hylu has seen him fast become one of the most talked about underground producers in the UK. Their unique and instantly recognizable style fuses flawless composition with crisp production skills and spans genres from reggae & dub, through the spectrum of modern UK bass music. The duo continue to work with some of the biggest vocalists in the world, as well as some rising stars, and of course all the artists in the Unit 137 camp, who continue to cause a stir, both on their own sound system as well as at dances and festivals all over the country.

Passafire are back with their fifth studio album, 'Vines' which was released worldwide on November 11th. Vines is the band’s début release for leading reggae label Easy Star Records and is the follow up to their 2011 chart-topping (#1 Billboard and iTunes Reggae) album 'Start From Scratch'. The Savannah, GA-based quartet continues to raise their profile to the top of the exploding U.S. reggae scene.

Much of Vines was recorded just outside of El Paso, TX at the legendary Sonic Ranch Studios, the largest residential recording studio complex in the world. Acts as diverse as Animal Collective, Sublime, Gogol Bordello, and Band of Horses have all shared the unique facilities and atmosphere where the new album was recorded.  It was finished in the band’s own home studio, which allowed for a much more relaxed, off the clock approach to the final sessions. After the recording was completed, Passafire worked with Paul Leary (of the Butthole Surfers), who produced their last album, to nail down the final mixes.  Leary’s impressive resume includes work with Sublime, Pepper, Slightly Stoopid, U2, Meat Puppets, and Daniel Johnston, to name a few.  Vines is Passafire’s most ambitious release to date, thanks in large part to the focus of the current line-up – singer/guitarist Ted Bowne, drummer Nick Kubley, bassist/vocalist Will Kubley and keyboardist Mike DeGuzman.  The results find its makers at a creative peak combined with a comfort level on stage and in the studio that Passafire has never achieved before.  Early critical praise of Vines is already coming in, with The Pier enthusiastically stating, “…the tracks have a maturity and depth to them, traits gained only by working out material together on the road.”

The band’s relentless touring schedule has gained a loyal national following with notable performances at festivals including the Vans Warped Tour, Wakarusa, and the California Roots Festival.  2013 has only accelerated the bands’ momentum on the road.  On October 4th 2013, Passafire kicked off an extensive tour co-headlining with friends and scene-mates Ballyhoo! The string of 29-dates is aptly titled the “BrewHaHa” Tour.

Vines is available form  iTunes and all other leading outlets.

TONY BREVETT R.I.P

On the 26th October the world lost one of the most underrated singer-songwriters of a generation: Tony Brevett. Brevett was best known for his work with the Melodians, the group he had formed in the early sixties, along fellow Kingstonians, Brent Dowe and Trevor McNaughton.

After making their recording debut in 1966, the trio enjoyed a long and successful career, cutting hits with many of Jamaica’s leading producers, most notably Coxson Dodd, Duke Reid, Sonia Pottinger and Leslie Kong, for whom they recorded their most famous works: their sole UK hit, ‘Sweet Sensation’ and the definitive version of ‘Rivers Of Babylon’ from 1970. Soon after, Brevett recorded a number of self-produced solo sides, including his enduring hit,‘Don’t Get Weary’.

Subsequent spells working with Lee Perry and Harry Johnson ensued for the group, although their career was adversely affected by periods of inactivity following a number of break-ups. They finally experienced a period of sustained unity in the late 1990’s, during which time their stage performances won them new generations of fans, but sadly, in 2006, Dowe passed away following a heart attack. The remaining duo maintained the Melodians name until earlier this year, but after falling ill in August, Brevett was diagnosed with cancer and despite the efforts of staff at Florida’s Memorial Hospital, he finally lost his fight with the disease aged 64.

Mungo's Hi Fi ft. Lady Ann – Sound Get A Beating

Lady Ann comes in hard with a certified sound killer, beating down any dibbi
dibbi who wants to come try test. Riding the old time dance riddim with a rough
n tough vocal over the 80's digital style, together with the clean riddim this is an
essential 7” for all DJ's and jugglers.

This is a limited edition run.

Tradesman ft. Parly B – Know Bout Style

Tradesman is causing a right old rumble with his fresh digital reggae riddims. Together with Parly B, Doncasters DJ don dadda, they have created a modern day dancehall anthem, with one foot in the late 80's and the other firmly planted in 2013. 'Know bout Style' sent the flamethrowers wild at Outlook this year.

This is a strictly limited short run, so get it before it's gone.

Roots Radio Intl

 CHECK OUT THE STATION EVERYONE'S BEEN TALKING ABOUT!

With a host of multi national DJs representing Sound Systems, Record labels and Promotion outfits
Roots Radio Intl is your number one port of call!
You will hear all the latest up to date sound system dubplates that are biggin up the dancefloors across the world, You will hear all the latest sounds from independent reggae labels, their releases and archives, you will hear classic vintage reggae and dub selected from vinyl, you will see a friendly positive roots family welcome you to the station for it boasts it's own multi camera chat lounge where you'll make friends with like minded fans of the music. The station will soon be employing it's own merchandise and music download store
The station is owned by Rabbi Cajun , it is managed by Rebel Soul (both United States). It's Admin team who make sure the station runs as smoothly and trouble free as is possible are Arfur B, Warrior Force Naomi and Roots Hobbit (All UK) with admin assistance from Cristiano Jahvoice and Tias dubwise (Italy France respectively). The station's publicist and promoter is Gibsy Rhodes (SpringlineRecords) So, tune in to the sound of now and enjoy the ride!

GO TO STATION

Omar feat. Caron Wheeler - Treat You plus Opolopo Remix!

Omar continues his magnificent re-emergence back to the forefront of contemporary soul on this new single 'Treat You' as he generously features another legend of similar pedigree: Soul II Souls' Caron Wheeler.

This story of a somewhat troubled love affair, the infectious groove rolls on whilst Omar and Caron take turns to air their issues, the bitter sweet subject matter is reflected in minor key and mellow synthesiser sounds. How these two legendary voices blend into something quite amazing isn't something that can easily be described in words - but it can be said that this duet between such fine and unique talents is a rare and beautiful thing.

'Ordinary Day' is where the sound heads south of the equator as Omar stamps his trademark voice and production all over this happening salsa rhythm. The up-tempo, sun drenched feel is augmented by huge sounding horns, a storm of blistering, Latin percussion and one of Omar's best vocal performances ever.

Opolopo, renowned remixer and producer is the man who put his stamp on the recent big club version of Gregory Porter's 1960 'What?', and his exclusive remix of 'Treat You' for this single is utter class, putting the emphasis on the contemporary dance floor tip without losing any of the originals soul or integrity. One of Omar's favourite remixes of his new material, Opolopo shows us why he is the man of the moment when it comes to bringing a fresh perspective to the great voices of modern soul and jazz.

Finally - long time Omar collaborator/co-producer Scratch Professer puts his totally individual and quirky touch on 'Treat You', rounding off this essential 12-inch single and digital download package.

"Absolutely loving this package! Treat You is a future classic. The Opolopo remix will also be doing damage on my radio show & dancefloor!" DJ AIS-T, Basso Radio, www.basso.fi


"I love my Omar! All the mixes work for me and I shall play with love." Ashley Beedle

"My goodness, Caron can sing anything and I'll melt!" Djtabone, WRFG 89.3 FM

ADAM PRESCOTT with CHARLIE P - LAZY MAN / STAND FIRM

Now on their seventeenth release the forward thinking UK Reggae & Dub music label, Reggae Roast are going from strength to strength with many underground hits under their belt already in 2013. This release definitely follows suit, having already done the rounds on dubplate for many months and set alight dances all over the world. They’ve signed up one of the top up and coming UK producers, Adam Prescott, and one of the top mic men on the scene, Charlie P. On remix duty they’ve drawn on the vanguard of dub, Iration Steppas, and digikal stalwart, Tradesman.

With this double A-side release Reggae Roast have lined up two heavy hitting bubblers built to test any soundsystem. ‘Lazy Man’ is a contemporary steppas reimagining of the stone cold classic ‘My Conversation’ by the late, great Slim Smith which is accentuated by Charlie P’s take on the advantages of being Lazy in modern day Britain. ‘Stand Firm’ on the flipside is a slice of ruff & tuff Rootstep with conscious lyrics from Charlie P alongside weighty bass assault and a hard rhythm section from Adam Prescott it’s a stark contrast to ‘Lazy Man’.

Straight outta Nottingham, Adam Prescott has been mashing up dances for many years now combining a crucial selection of dubplates and his own varied productions, which are always steeped in Roots music and Soundsystem culture. Having remixed some of the biggest names in Reggae & Dub such as Mungo’s Hi-Fi, Iration Steppas, Part2Style, Alpha Steppa, Radikal Guru, Vibration Lab and many, many more over the course of his career he has been finally let loose on a Reggae Roast extended player.

Charlie P hardly needs any introduction, however if you have been living under a rock for the past few years he has worked with pretty much everyone worth their salt within the modern day Dub circuit, such as Mungo’s Hi-Fi, Dubateers, Solo Banton, Part2Style to name but a few. Constantly touring the world and smashing Dancehalls on a regular basis Charlie shows no sign of slowing down, add to that he has just finished his second LP produced by none other than Scotland’s finest, Mungo’s Hi-Fi

In the Soundsystem game for over 20 years Mark Millington, one half of Iration Steppas (with Dennis Rootical), has been instrumental in the massive resurgence of Dub music over the past few years. Having set up the legendary Subdub sessions (alongside Outlook Festival’s Simon Scott) to showcase the mighty Iration Steppas Soundsystem, Mark is one of the most in-demand selectors on the scene. As a supporter of Adam’s work Mark has been playing his ‘Year 3000 Dub’ of ‘Lazy Man’ at nuff sessions across the world to sell out audiences. With another busy year planned hot off the back of their new LP ‘Iration Steppas Meets Tena Stelin in the Dub Arena’ Mark and the rest of the crew deserve their place at the top of the Soundsystem league.

Hailing from Leeds, Tradesman has been exposed to a hot bed of musical activity, more importantly Soundsystem culture, for a number of years. He is a resident at one of Subdub’s more underground offshoots, Dancehall Science, and regularly supports some of the most exciting artists in Dub music today playing sets where the majority of the tunes are his own productions. This has, in turn, led to Scotch Bonnet (Mungo’s Hi-Fi imprint) snapping up his debut release with Parly B, ‘Inna Competition’ which gained support from some of the scene’s top players and took Tradesman’s ruffneck digital sound international.

Reggae Roast is building a formidable catalogue featuring some of the most exciting artists in the UK and beyond. Key players in the resurgence of the UK Roots scene over the past 5 years, they are a leading light in the new generation of dub music. Setting them apart from the crowd is their ruff n tuff remixes giving the label a unique cross over appeal. Look out for plenty more releases in the coming months from the likes of Dubmatix, Vibration Lab, Ed West, Parly B and many more.

Roots Queen - Powerful Energy

German Reggae/Dancehall artist Roots Queen is making an impact with her first studio album, “Powerful Energy”  and its  début single “Feeling Free” which has spent nine weeks at number one on the Reggae chart in the UK, seven weeks at number one on another Reggae chart in the United States and was number four on New York’s top 30 Reggae Chart. While the latest single, “Fly With Me”, is currently number two in the UK and getting rotation on Reggae shows all over.

Manager Steve Stephens said about the new album. "I will never forget the night I sat in Roots Queen studio in Germany and heard the album for the first time. I just could not believe my ears and by the time we got to the last track I knew not only that Roots Queen was a special talent but that we had an album full of potential hit singles!!”

Recently Roots Queen spoke with Sir Daddy D on Reggae4Us about the album, her career and a slew of other things which you can hear HERE

To read an extensive review of this album visit....

Kalbata & Mixmonster - Congo Beat The Drum

Freestyle Records are celebrating their 10th anniversary year and have just announced the signing of Kalbata & Mixmonster to the label with their stunning new album: “Congo Beat The Drum”.

Kalbata & Mixmonster are two renowned producers, Ariel Tagar (Kalbata), a techno & 2-step producer who previously has released on labels such as Soul Jazz, Brownswood and Greenmoney as well doing a string of high profile remixes for artists such as Fat Freddy's Drop, Spank Rock, The Count & Sinden and Roll Deep as well as being the man behind reissue labels Fortuna and Spring Hill Records.

Mixmonster (Uri Wertheim) is the man behind the world-renowned funk, brass & breaks band The Apples, as well as a member of cut-n-paste duo Radiotrip. He is also a producer and sound engineer specialising in analogue tape recordings.

Two years ago, Ariel and Uri went into their Tel Aviv studio with the purpose of recording a 100% analogue reggae/dub album, combining the spirit of the late King Tubby and the early dancehall era of the late 70's and early 80's. They insisted on not using any computers in the process, whilst blending in elements of techno, psychedelic funk, and African tribal music.
They then travelled to Kingston, Jamaica and began tracking down their favourite singers and deejays, such legends as Jah Thomas, Little John, Trinity, Echo Minott, Mutabaruka, Major Mackerel, Puddy Roots and the sadly, recently departed Prince Jazzbo.
The resulting long player, “Congo Beat The Drum” is on the one hand truly loyal to the origins of Jamaican music and on the other, a well produced forward thinking album, sounding totally fresh in today's music aesthetics. It will also rattle your speakers in ways not heard since the heyday of Jamaican reggae & dub!
About signing with Freestyle, Ariel said “We're super excited to be releasing Congo Beat The Drum' with the Freestyle crew. After two years in the making the time has come to let it out!”

Freestyle A&R man Greg Boraman added "Securing this amazing reggae album ends a 2-year search for just the right project: “Much of the contemporary roots reggae based material I had been checking out lacked that certain authentic feel, but this project has all the right analogue vibes and the line up of classic Jamaican legends featured made it a must have for Freestyle”.

Debut single ‘Prisoner In Love’ featuring Little John will soon be released on a suitably Kingston style 45 vinyl single, with an instrumental version excursion on the flip.

Richie Campbell - Focused

Portugal's #1 reggae artist Richie Campbell makes his US début with the album "Focused" which will be released through Tommy Boy Entertainment on October 29th, 2013. The album was released earlier this year in his native Portugal and quickly climbed to the #1 position on iTunes on week of release. The success was repeated last week upon its release in Germany where the album is sitting at #6 on the Top Reggae albums chart.

Richie Campbell has been tearing up the reggae music scene all over the world since the ripe age of 16. Having already collaborated and toured with some of the best names in the business, including SOJA, Kymani Marley, Anthony B, and Gentleman. Richie’s reputation far outweighs his years. “Focused” contains features and contributions from many of these artists, as well as current noteworthy Jamaican artists and producers Ikaya, Turbulence, Don Corleon, Big Finga, and Specialist and includes his most recent singles, "Blame It On Me" and "That's How We Roll" which have both contributed to his success, not only in his native Portugal, but in Europe and the Americas as well. 

Campbell continues to spread his message of love and responsibility throughout all of his songs with a smooth voice that speaks of ills whilst lifting up the soul.

Onlyjoe Play With Fire

Having appeared to rave reviews at various summer festivals London outfit onlyjoe are following up on the success of ‘Wicked Land’ and ‘Revolution’ to release their fourth single ‘Play With Fire’ which sees the band truly become the roots outfit that they claim to be. 

The single is backed by a mighty effect filled dub version from Dubkasm that veers away from their usual steppas style, a trademark dancefloor killer remix by DJ Madd as well as a sparse and atmospheric mix from Unit 137’s respected producers Sleepy Time Ghost and Hylu.

'Play With Fire' is released on October 14th on 12" vinyl, CD and digital formats

STUDIO ONE - SKA FEVER!

Out now is a blistering collection of ska tunes from Clement 'Sir Coxsone' Dodd's legendary Studio One Records, Jamaica's foundation label of reggae music. Featuring  classic cuts from the originators of Ska - The Skatalites, The Wailers, Lee Perry -  alongside a heavy dose of superb rarities from the might vaults of 13 Brentford Road - pure Ska Fever !

Soul Jazz Records new Studio One Ska Fever returns back to the early 1960s - when Ska was the soundtrack to Jamaica's Independence and Sir Coxsone ruled the land and The Skatalites and Studio One were creating history on a daily basis with an endless stream of blistering, scorching classic tunes.

This album includes an incredible line-up of only the finest artists in reggae music, including Roland Alphonso, The Gaylads, The Ethiopians, Don Drummond, Jackie Opel and many more. An all-star cast from Studio One, as Chris Blackwell famously noted, the 'University of Reggae'.

The accompanying booklet contains extensive sleeve-notes from Studio One historian Rob Chapman (author of Never Grow Old and Downbeat Special), with information on musicians, tracks, label scans and more.

Soul Jazz Records' Studio One Ska Fever is released in CD- jewel case, 24-page booklet with card slipcase, as well as a heavyweight double-vinyl edition in deluxe strong gatefold sleeve (with full sleeve notes) and also as a digital download.

Tracklisting:

1. Hugh Godfrey - Mad World           

2. Johnny Moore - Skauling Johnny           

3. Bongo Man   - Where's Garvey           

4. The Clarendonians - Rudie Bam Bam           

5. Jackie Opel: Old Rocking Chair          

6. The Wailers - Climb The Ladder            

7. Jackie Mittoo - Jump For Joy           

8. Lee Perry - Gumma           

9. Soul Brothers  - Freedom Sounds           

10. The Clarendonians - You Won't See Me           

11. Roland Alphonso  - Cleopatra           

12. The Gaylads - Don't Try To Reach Me           

13. The Skatalites - Ska Parisienne           

14. Joe Higgs & Roy Wilson - There's A Reward           

15. The Skatalites - Timothy           

16. Ethiopians   - Live Good            

17. Don Drummond - Green Island            

18. The Wailers - Mr Talkative   

Buy here.

Listen here.

Frootful - The Road / Benedicts Boogaloo

In 2011, Frootful released their début album Colours on Freestyle Records to great acclaim, with everyone from Osunlade, Craig Charles and Diesler praising its modern-yet-retro blend of 60s soul, rocksteady, dance floor friendly jazz and R&B, whilst Jazz FM made it an Album Of The Week. The début single taken from it, 'Fish In The Sea' became a club hit, and also featured in Steven Soderbergh's hit movie Magic Mike.

Now Frootful return with a fantastic two track 45 taken from Heavyweight - the forthcoming long player.

The Road features UK soul vocalist Mazen Bedwei, who first featured on a Freestyle release when singing on Nick Van Gelder's 'Something's Gotta Give' on the compilation 'Sounds From The Soul Underground'.

The Road is a bright, breezy and uplifting soul groove, that has something of a late 60s feel, where shimmering horns underpin Mazen's Curtis Mayfield inspired vocals and Frootful main man Nick Radford's tasteful guitar picking locks down this sweet summer sound.

On the flip, the mood is altogether more greasy; Benedicts Boogaloo is a gritty soul-jazz work out that's been double dipped in the funk. Nick gets the chance to display his guitar chops wonderfully, the bubbling bass line is unrelenting whilst a dirty, distorted organ grooves out to a stunning climax!

Available from
Freestyle        
Amazon           
Junodownload     
iTunes          

Dubplate Fashion - Tradesman & Parly B

Following on from a storming start to the year with a number of high quality underground hits, Reggae Roast are going from strength to strength and have built up a very loyal following, both for their label and events. This release is set to be no different, having already done the rounds on dubplate for a number of months and has mashed many a dance. They’ve gone for everyone’s favourite up and coming producer outta Leeds, Tradesman and Reggae Roast mic man extraordinaire, Parly B inna wicked combination.

Drawing inspiration from the ‘golden age’ of digital Reggae production, Dubplate Fashion, is sure to get people skanking out each and every time. Referencing classic production styles from producers such as King Jammy & Gussie P, Tradesman has created his own unmistakable sound with his remake of the classic Rumours Riddim originally voiced by Gregory Isaacs in the 80’s. Top that off with Parly B flinging out bar after bar of lyrical heat and you have a toppa top tune!

Wrecking dancefloors wherever he goes, Parly B has made incredible in roads in the UK dub scene in the last 12. He came to light with his stand out release “Competition” on Mungo’s Hi Fi’s Scotch Bonnet imprint and since then has been one of the most sought after MCs in the UK. Parly has gone on to collaborate with a whole heap of diverse and sonically interesting producers such as Riddim Tuffa, 7FT Soundsystem, The Skints, Lionfire & Mungo’s Hi-Fi showcasing his imitable style and riding any riddim how only he can.

Hailing from Leeds, Tradesman has been exposed to a hot bed of musical activity, more importantly Soundsystem culture, for a number of years. Birthplace of Iration Steppas & the renowned Subdub dances it was only a matter of time before Tradesman caught the bug. He is a resident at one of Subdub’s more underground offshoots, Dancehall Science, and regularly supports some of the most exciting artists in Dub music today playing sets where the majority of  the tunes are his own productions. This has, in turn, led to Scotch Bonnet (Mungo’s Hi-Fi imprint) snapping up his debut release with Parly B, ‘Inna Competition’ which gained support from some of the scene’s top players and took Tradesman’s ruffneck digital sound international.

Adam Prescott combines a crucial selection of rough and tough Roots music with a modern injection of Dubstep & Steppas. With support and guidance from some of the biggest names in the scene, Adam has been making moves in the world of Dub & Dubstep for a while now working on original tunes with well-known and established artists.

Reggae Roast is building a formidable catalogue featuring some of the most exciting artists in the UK and beyond. Key players in the resurgence of the UK Roots scene over the past 5 years, they are a leading light in the new generation of dub music. Setting them apart from the crowd is their ruff n tuff remixes giving the label a unique cross over appeal. Look out for plenty more releases in the coming months from the likes of Adam Prescott, Charlie P, Dubmatix, Vibration Lab and many more.

On The Springline - Free Triple Album Review

Read it here

Pablo Moses – A Revolutionaries Dream

Pablo Moses turns 60 this year and is one of Jamaica’s greatest roots reggae artists whose Rastafarian ideology combined with unprecedented political frankness is delivered in a high pitched, horn-like voice. Pablo is one of the only, if not the only, reggae artists as far as I'm aware to have only ever released his own material by never having covered anyone else's song.

Originally born Pablo Henry in 1953, Jamaica he has released a number of records over the years, but is probably best known for his phenomenal 1975 début “Revolutionary Dream”, produced by Geoffrey Chung and engineered at The Black Ark by Lee "Scratch" Perry and included the hit single ‘I Man A Grasshopper’.

His 1980 follow up, “A Song”, was well received by his fans and music critics alike and was a subtle answer to the fire his début effort. The following year saw the release of his third album, “Pave The Way” which only helped swell the ranks of his fans across the world as his  Rastafarian themes and the crusade against injustice, inequality, greed, racism, war, the pillage of nature struck a chord and were universal in their scope.

In 1983, Moses signed with Alligator Records to release “In The Future” which continued with the same political and social message but saw a musical change from pure roots reggae as rock stylistics and the use of electronic instrumentation like the synthesizer and vocader. Moses expanded and deepened his sound and rhetoric with 1985's “Tension” and 1987's “Live To Love”.

1990 saw a switch to Profile records and the release of “We Refuse”, a lyrical response to the political climate of the eighty's seen as good times by those who've closed their eyes to the underlying realities of poverty and racism, now unravelling in the '90s. Moses, at the time said of the album '' I say what I've said all along, only in a modified mood, more straightforward. I refuse the Babylonian ways of society, the bully-istic attitudes. Jah made everyone with different cultures and colours just as he made different types of birds and plants for beautification." It was also an attempt to reach out to the "now generation" of younger reggae fans who’d grown up listening to the dancehall style and slackness with Moses adding “I try to adapt to changing styles of music. I'm trying to reach the dancehall crowd not just with the beat, but with a message that is cultural and sociologically connected, with songs like "Bad Boy" and "Charlie". The album also featured “Love Is A Thing”, a duet with his young daughter Tashe, and the songs “Under Your Spell” and “In South Africa”.

The album was produced by Pablo Moses and premier reggae keyboardist Robbie Lyn, and mixed by Steven Stanley and Geoffrey Chung.

Then in 1993 there was another label change to Musicdisc of France with the release of “The Confession Of A Rastaman”, an album that followed in the same vein as Revolutionary Dream, A Song and Pave The Way in one. Then three years later emerged the album “Mission” which was cited as one of his best works since Revolutionary Dream. During his association with Musicdisc , he released a compilation “The  Best of Pablo Moses” with songs taken from the LP’s Live To Love, Tension, In The Future and We Refuse plus a re-release of Revolutionary Dream in Europe and North America simultaneously on Shanachie Records. In 1997 Pablo re-released “In The Future plus Dubs”, through Tabou I and Nite an Day, in Europe, then all went quiet for some 13 years before he triumphantly returned with “The Rebirth” in 2010. The album saw him work with a golden reggae team that included drum and bass masters Sly and Robbie, saxophonist Dean Fraser, percussionists Skully and Sticky Thompson, keyboardists Robert Lyn and Franklin ‘Bubbler’ Waul as well as guitarist Dwight Pinkney, with all delivering 13 rootsy tracks including several serious tunes such as ‘So Much’, ‘Jah Will Make a Way’, ‘More Than You Can Chew’ and ‘They Can't Undo’ that recalled Pablo's great work from the late 70's.

There is unfortunately no news of another album from Pablo Moses on the horizon but never the less he still remains one of the most original and out-spoken roots reggae artist in Jamaica after more than 30 years, who is still capable of throwing out lyrics that are Sociologically, Political and Culturally Connected. He however does tour and has appeared extensively in Canada, U.S.A. South America, Central America, Europe and Scandinavia and some Caribbean Countries as well as making various festival appearances.
So all that’s left to say is many happy returns and thanks for all the great and inspiring music throughout the years and may one day your dream become a reality.

Dreadsquad ft Everton Chambers - Better World

This limited edition 7" is born out of Dreadsquad's massive remix of the Damian Marley and
Skrillex combo 'Bun Dem' and is his first release on Scotch Bonnet.
It has collector's item written all over it featuring 80s cult hero Everton Chambers and is the only track on this riddim to get pressed on vinyl!  The  b-side features an exclusive dub mix.

Available now from ScotchBonnet.net

Mungo's HiFi ft Soom T - Bong Bong EP

The "Bong Bong" EP is a foray into the world of digital reggae. The much requested title

track takes Sister Nancy's 'Bam Bam' bang up to date in a smoky fashion. Soom's singing abilities
shine through in the ultra modern '31st Century Song'. 'I Need Weed' and 'Boom Shiva' are familiar
tales about the good ole chronic which appeared on Jahtari's "Ode to a Carrot" . These versions are
from a much earlier recording session and have a different edge.

Available now from ScotchBonnet.net

Mungo's Hi Fi ft Soom T - Listening Bug EP

"The Listening Bug" EP showcases the Mungo's Hi Fi sound that does not fit straight into the reggae mold.
It's electronic with a LFO bass driven flurry and minimal meandering melodies. Track 'Jump up' quickly is
full of eastern mystique before cutting to a hard hitting rap style mixed in with Eek-a-Mouse. 'Run
Fool' is dark, jittery and hard, while 'War Song' has a sound that would not be out of place as the next
James bond theme tune.

Available now from ScotchBonnet.net

Ramon Judah - Only Wicked People

Just like London buses, you wait ages for one then two turn up together, Reggae Roasts charismatic front man and lead vocalist Ramon Judah after taking 5 years to release his first single with the label has just released his second in as many months.  Production is again by Conscious Sound (AKA Bush Chemist) as they take a unique twist on Yami Bolo’s ‘Jah Made Them All’ whilst riding on a take of the classic ‘Every Tongue Shall Tell’ riddim.

Completing the single are a straight riddim cut, a 80’s digital style re-lick from Scotland based Riddim Tuffa Sound plus regular Reggae Roast contributor Adam Prescott injecting a touch of dubstep.

15th Afro Roots World Music Festival

For the 15th year in a row, Jose Elias and local non-profit organization, Community Arts and Culture will be putting on the annual Afro Roots World Music Festival in Miami, Florida on August 3rd.

The line-up is predominantly Latin flavoured but there will also be many African artists taking part such as Ibrahima Dioubate and Fatala an ensemble started by Ibrahima Dioubate a renowned balafonist from the country of Guinea whose family linage of balafonist goes back five hundred years when they were musicians for the Royal Court. Dioubate is currently working with guitarist and producer Jose Elias, on an album that fuses the traditions of Guinean Folk music with modern instrumental components.
Also there is an appearance from Venus Rising, a West African inspired, multi-ethnic, female drum and dance troupe dedicated to creating works that uplift and inspire, C.K Ladzekpo a performer, choreographer and composer who is the director of the African music program at the University of California and a member of a famous family of African musicians and dancers who traditionally serve as lead drummers and composers among the Anlo-Ewe people of south-eastern Ghana in West Africa and the distinguished Afro Polyphonic World Orchestra (APOW).

On the reggae front there will be performances from Itawe, a Colombian who has been living in the US since the age of 14 and is the front man of Latin Band Miami New Times but is now to release a reggae based solo debut filled with songs of revolution, freedom and love entitled “The Solution” plus local heroes DJ’s Lance-O and Kulcha Shok who have become synonymous with reggae music in South Beach over the past few years thanks to their club nights.

Galak Spiritual EP

Hundred years have released the debut EP from Parisian singjay Galak Spiritual. The release is the first on the new label and comprises five tracks, all combining the artists trademark blend of reggae, hip hop and dancehall.

With vocal turns and productions from many of the Unit 137 collective and onlyjoe band, whom Galak has worked with closely over his time in London. The release is an exciting insight in to the versatile artists body of work, and is a small taste of big things to come, as a debut album looms in the not too distant future.

The release will be launched in London on June 14th at the Bussey Buildings in Peckham, alongside Unit 137, Gorgon Sound and Lionpulse Sound, and then in Paris on June 15th at Le Bloc alongside Dirty Zoo.

This release is available digitally and on CD through Hundred Years and other outlets.

Mahala Rai Banda - BalkanReggae

Since the early-1960s Jamaican music has rocked the world: Ska, Rocksteady, Reggae, Dub, Dancehall having established internationally that beautiful, troubled island as a leader in musical innovation and good grooves. The fall of the Berlin Wall found Romania's Gypsy musicians making a similar impression on the West with their ancient string bands and furious brass bands creating a groove like no other.

The funkiest of all Romanian bands are Mahala Rai Banda. This Bucharest-based band have mixed Funk and Latin flavours into furious brass groove and torn up stages across the world. In 2009, on their acclaimed album "Ghetto Blasters", Mahala Rai Banda cut "Balkan Reggae", a lovely, swinging instrumental that showed how Eastern cymbaloms, violins, accordions and trumpets could embrace a very Caribbean flavour.

Reggae in Romania? Few imagined that the Jamaican sound could penetrate so far East or that a Gypsy band could play it with such feel. Yet everyone who heard Balkan Reggae loved it and Reggae DJs across Europe began dropping the tune in their sets. As 2012 signalled the 50th anniversary of Jamaica's independence Mahala Rai Banda reached out to their Jamaican brethren and requested Dub remixes on Balkan Reggae.

The response was strong. Leading the charge was Mad Professor - the legendary, London-based Jamaican producer who has gone toe-to-toe with Lee Perry and Massive Attack amongst many others - followed by Nick Manasseh (feat. dread DJ Gregory Fabulous), Jstar, G-Vibes (feat. acclaimed Brixton Blues man Errol Linton), Vibronics, Kanka and Asphalt Tango artists La Cherga and Koby Israelite.

"Balkan Reggae" - The Dub Mixes is the first ever album where Balkan Gypsy music meets the Dreads uptown! As they like to shout over a hot mix in Trenchtown: "Irie!"

Read the review at........

The Benevolence of Sister Mary Ignatius

Some 35 years ago sax player Lee Thompson helped introduced an entire generation to Ska music when as part of Madness they exploded on to the music scene on the crest of the 2-Tone wave. Now in the time between various Madness gigs and duties El Thommo has been filling that gap since 2011 by forming his own Ska Orchestra, with the aid of fellow Madness member and bassist Mark Bedford, to recreate and pay homage to those authentic Ska and Reggae rhythms that burst out of Jamaica in the mid to late 1960’s that influenced him and the band so much. 

Since then The Orchestra have been performing all over to rave reviews and the next logical step was to put that sound on record which has resulted in the release of debut album “The Benevolence of Sister Mary Ignatius”, with the title itself paying tribute to the lady who opened and ran the Alpha School for Boys. The album features their takes on many Ska classics like Baba Brookes’ ‘Gun Fever’, Jackie Mittoo’s ‘Napoleon Solo’, ‘EasternStandard Time’ by Don Drummond plus in amongst all these great instrumentals is the  single release, featuring Bitty Mclean on vocals, a take on Desmond  Dekker’s mighty, mystical 'Fu Man Chu'. The album has been co-produced by Mike Pelanconi aka Prince Fatty who has worked with the likes of reggae greats Dennis Alcapone, Little Roy and Winston Francis as well as helping introduce us to the delights of the talented Hollie Cook.

The Benevolence of Sister Mary Ignatius is available from all major and local outlets NOW!

Hylu & Jago - The Uplifting Riddim

Last year London based production duo Hylu & Jago broke onto the scene with the release of the very contemporary, assured roots reggae styled riddim 'Anansi'.
Now Unit 137 are to present their long awaited second release the ‘Uplifting Riddim’ which continues in a similar roots vein and has been written with the aid of onlyjoe member, guitarist and composer R. Kent.
There are four solid vocal cuts on the riddim from the likes of the Trinidadian Jah Defender, Jamaican singer Josie Mel plus more onlyjoe connections with vocalists Dandelion and Galak Spiritual.
Remix duties are performed by Sleepy Time Ghost and Reggae Roast's own Adam Prescott who both add their own inimitable style to proceedings.

Mungo's Hi Fi meets Kenny Knots - Brand New Bangarang

Get ready to experience the Brand New Bangarang which sets a new foundation for the reggae dancehall movement. Kenny Knots comes flying in streaming positive lyrics delivered with rasta fire, while Mungo's Hi Fi provide immaculate production steeped in soundsystem heritage. Chock full of smash singles and brand new dub slates born in the heat of the dance; every track is a tried and tested sound killer.

Kenny Knots has developed his unique and versatile style, nicing up dances worldwide for the last 30 years. He started out as a teenager in the 80s on London's Unity Sound which shot him to fame with singles like ‘Watch How The People Them Dancing’ and ‘Ring My Number’. He is a song writer and performer at the pinnacle of his talent.

Mungo's Hi Fi are ploughing a new furrow through the dry earth of the modern musical landscape. Their fresh take on reggae and dancehall music is sweeping the globe, gathering millions of hits despite being under the radar of mainstream culture.

Format

12” Vinyl printed sleeve 3mm spine

CD Digipack

Digital Formats

Tracklist

A1 Brand New Bangarang

A2 Word Sound and Power (ft. Mikey Murka)

A3 One Life to Live

A4 She Got Love for Me

B1 Sweet Meditation

B2 Rock Inna Dancehall

B3 Gimme Gimme 

B4 So Me Stay 

CD Bonus

Don't Let Them

Rasta Meditation

For a review of this release visit......

 

Digitaldubs feat Brother Culture - Holding Down A Vibe

Brand new on the Muzamba label is a 7" produced by Brazil's number one soundsystem, Digitaldubs, inspired by the Amazonian Tecno-Brega scene with low tech Casio sounds and featuring the living legend Brother Culture, who works hard to keep righteous dancehall culture alive and always holds down a vibe. Solid release with a tough version.

Released on Vinyl & Digital Formats Formats

A Digitaldubs ft Brother Culture – Holding Down A Vibe

B Digitaldubs – Dubing Down A Vibe

YABASS YABA RADICS - “DUBPLATE DRIFTER”

We are proud to announce this album release from Yabass featuring 9 previously unreleased dubplates from the archives of SpringlineJamaica.
This western tinged offering will excite the listener with it’s early Eighties sparce vibes and mixdown.
The tracks are taken from the spoof documentary film of the Willesden Posse’s 1981 dubplate wars with the Harlesden ‘Hang Em High’ Crew which is currently in production. 
The album is available on CD / DDL / TAPE

DDL @ iTunes / Amazon / eMusic / Spotify / RootsLabIntl
CD @ ReelPeopleMuzic.com / RootsLabIntl.com
TAPE @ ReelPeopleMuzic.com

Babascum - Down Inna Di Ghetto

Glasgow reggae sound system Argonaut Sounds have released Babascum’s

“Down Inna Di Ghetto”, the first single on their new label Argonaut Sounds Productions, available on limited edition 7” and digital download from 4th April 2013.

Written by Babascum, with backing vocals from Shantha Roberts and produced by Wayne Fortune, the upbeat one drop track stands apart from the dubstep and bass music influences currently dominating in the UK, and takes its lead from the resurgent reggae scene in Jamaica and Europe.

Hailing from St Lucia, Babascum has been resident MC with Argonaut Sounds for several years. Deeply immersed in music from a young age, and from a family of gospel and folk signers, his exposure to sound systems and be felt in his music, with his lyrical content carrying a spiritual message while reflecting the complexities of life.

The social aspect of reggae music is something Babascum holds dear:

“Music has always been my release, my joy, my love, everything. It’s always made me feel part of a community, and I’m so happy to be able to make a contribution to the music.”

After celebrating a decade in the sound system business in 2012, the formation of their new label is the next logical step for Argonaut Sounds, explains producer Wayne Fortune:

“We’ve been privileged to be part of the booming reggae scene in Glasgow for more than ten years, and it seems natural to take the next step and put some of our music out there - it’s been a long held ambition of ours to reach this stage.”

Shantha Roberts, former MTV and BBC Scotland TV presenter, provides backing vocals on the track, and has been a long term collaborator with Argonaut Sounds, having recorded several tracks in her own right for use on the sound system.

The single is available direct from www.argonautsounds.com  and from all good record stores and online retailers.

Mungo's Hi Fi feat Yellowman & Mr Williamz - Dubplate Master

Mr Williamz has been in high demand since appearing on Mungo's last album 'Forward

Ever' with his whopping Musically Mad and Computer Age hits. Those clamouring for

more will not be disappointed with his brand new lick, this time a combination with

Yellowman, and when the bassline drops and the vocals kick in it's like cool runnings all

over.

The flip side carries straight karnival style dancefloor instrumental, along with a half time swing version with a totally different groove and dutty, dutty bassline.

Format - 12” Vinyl - Digital Formats

Trojan Presents....

 
Since the launch of the 'Trojan' series in the summer of 2011, UMC's widely acclaimed 2CD 'Presents' range has gone from strength to strength, with the range further bolstered by well received collections highlighting the best in Jamaican sounds from three more legendary labels, Treasure Isle, Island and, most recently, Top Deck.

The latter, which comprises two collections featuring the best of Justin 'Phillip' Yap's  Ska vocal and instrumental productions went on sale a few weeks ago, with initial press reaction universally positive.

Listen to Top Deck Presents Ska Vocal on Spotify Here
Listen to Top Deck Presents Ska Instrumentals on Spotify Here

Later this year, the series will be further expanded by two more Island sets, 'Roots' and 'Original Reggae', with buyers guaranteed no repeat of recordings across any of these sets, fans are assured value for money.

JOEY & GROUP - ROCK STEADY GOLD

May’s (2013) limited edition 7” is to be another essential item for all fans of classic Rock Steady, with both sides featuring previously un-issued gems from Duke Reid’s celebrated Treasure Isle catalogue. 

Both ‘Soul Love’ by little known vocal group, Joey & Group and ‘What A Situation’ by an as-yet unidentified singer, supported by Lord Comic and Tommy McCook & the Supersonics, sparked huge excitement among listeners of Lady Livewire’s Roots FM show, when they were exclusively aired on the programme last month and now 500 lucky music fans will be given the opportunity to own them on vinyl.

Pre order your copy HERE

GAY FEET SKA-FES

The next release in the popular Boss Shots’ 10” range is to feature a quartet of Ska gems from Sonia Pottinger’s famed Gay Feet catalogue. To be released on 27th May 2013, the limited edition single collects four of the producer’s most sought-after mid-sixties sides, all of which featured on the impossibly rare ‘Gay Feet’ LP: Baba Brooks’ ‘First Session’,  ‘Hold Your Head In Front’ by Joe White & Chuck, Slim Smith & the Techniques’ ‘Heartaches’ and ‘By The Sea’ by the Saints
Mastered from the original Jamaican tapes and pressed on top quality vinyl, this is how music should sound.

Order your copy HERE

Cookin' On 3 Burners - This Girl feat. Kylie Auldist

Back in 2009, Freestyle released 'This Girl' by Cookin' On 3 Burners on a 45 single ahead of the full length album 'Soul Messin'.

This Girl featured renowned Aussie songstress Kylie Auldist (known for her work with The Bamboos, Polyester & Mega Bias) who joined forces with the boys and provided the focus for this mellow, beautiful and incredibly catchy song.

Shimmering horns ride over this laid back, deep soul classic, the super catchy melody found a home amongst fans of deep funk, classic 60s & Northern soul aficionados. Quickly selling out of its first, second and third vinyl pressing, the 45 went on to become one of those records that ended up going for quite 'silly money' on various rare record websites, which whilst flattering, did put the vinyl single somewhat out of reach of those not willing to part with a fat wad of cash in order to secure a copy!

So, now in 2013, Freestyle have bowed to public pressure and re-released this fantastic soul classic again on beautiful vinyl once more.

Upon its original release, everybody from Jazz FM's Peter Young through to BBC Radio 2's Mark Lamarr went just a little bit crazy about the song - and in 2013 this unforgettable  touching song is getting even more people hot under the collar all over again!

For those of you whose vinyl & turntable days are a distant memory - of course - you can also grab this classic 45 from all the usual digital outlets.

J Star - Licensed Plates

Celebrating 10 years of West London's Jstar Records, 12 official Jstar remixes & versions
come together in a celebration of blissful reggae bass lines, horns and echo

Pop sensibility reggae re-workings of Madness, DJ Vadim, Austrian popsters Mr Dero & Farina
Miss, rub shoulders with chasms of psychedelic dub such as The Unlimiters’ Loophole and
Resonators’ Sweet Love Affair (Inna Chicken Head Dub). New Zealand artists Dub Terminator and
The Black Seeds get the signature Jstar treatment with deep melodic bass lines and spacious steller
sonics. Jstar’s version of The Empty Heads’ Ya Ya, Das Mic, a Jstar collaboration with Uwe Kaa nd
Jstar’s own brand new Fish Finger Tentacle Dub are previously unreleased.

Producer and DJ, Jstar is well known for his classic reggae/hip hop nuggets on limited 7” vinyl, as
well as remixes of Madness, DJ Vadim, The Black Seeds, Ari Up, Mark Ronson, Dreadsquad,
Tenor Fly amongst others. Over 60 productions, that made it into record boxes of DJ's worldwide
(Norman Jay, David Rodigan, Grandmaster Flash, John Peel, Benji B and Diplo) that
regularly reach the Top Ten on Juno, and Beatport. An original Jstar album is under production
for late 2013.

Jstar goes from strength to strength djing across the planet from Mexico to Manchester, Denmark
to Delhi, Weimar to Wellington. 2013 will be no different, touring at festivals Northern Bass and
Rhythm & Alps New Zealand in December and January 2013, returning to Europe for summer, then
India.

Jstar – Licensed Plates JS021LP is available as a limited 500 units pressing collectable double gatefold LP, lovingly mastered from tape for vinyl appreciators, in a double gatefold cover with hand designed collage by Jstar, guest star interior design by French artist/ pro snowboarder Hugo De Vismes plus stickers and download codes for exclusive bonus tracks.

Kiwi - On The Move

After nearly a decade of entertaining audiences around the North-eastern US and Brazil Kiwi have hit their stride with a new line-up featuring some of the New York City area’s finest musicians. The band, which includes Alex Tea (vocals, guitar), Ramsey Norman (drums), Matt Quinones (bass), Ben Guadalupe (percussion), Dave Stolarz (keys), Barami Waspe (tenor sax), Curtis Taylor(trumpet), and Rob Edwards (trombone). 

Over these years they have been invited to share the stage with veteran reggae/ska acts including the Pietasters and John Brown’s Body.

Now they have just released their 2nd full-length album “On the Move” which is a masterful and joyful celebration of reggae rhythms, soulful vocals and Latin jazz-inflected harmonies.

To read more about this exciting album visit......