Friday, October 24, 2008

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART 11

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART 11
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, October 2008 - In another great mix by Roots Ministry selector Sista Simone, we explore more UK ROOTS and DUB drum and basslines with their vocal counterparts.

Indeed: here is one more essential addition to the collection of every self-respecting lover of the better (DUB) Reggae.


Often, Roots Ministry will introduce us to names of artists.

Dub From Atlantis, for example. Just after the very strong opening tune, just before Enos Mc Leod and Earl Zero ride a Jamaican Rub a Dub riddim, we're introduced to this interesting group.

The Bristol-based UK DUB collective started in 2000 and deserve more attention than they presently (seem to) get.

It's hard, too.

There's just too much better-than-good (DUB) Reggae, as Sista Simone of the German based Roots Ministry shows us once again. Her exceptional skills in dealing with the turntable and mixing board are a joy for the heart and soul as she leads us from one riddim into the next in ever-surprising ways.

Mixdown number 11? You guessed it. Get it!

PLAYLIST

01. Dub Terror feat. Echo Ranks - Shinobi Warrior
02. Shinobi Dub
03. Dub From Atlantis - Heavy Weather
04. Dub From Atlantis feat. Gina Griffin - String Theorie Dub
05. Enos McLeod - Jericho
06. Jericho Version
07. Earl Zero - City Of The Weakheart
08. Junior Delgado - Storm Is Coming !
09. Twinkle Brothers - Wishfull Thinking
10. Prince Alla - Forward
11. BB Seaton - Life Goes On
12. Emmanuel Joseph & The Shanti-Ites - Road To Zion
13. The Shanti-Ites – Zion Dub
14. Neville Brown - Killamanjaro
15. Earl 16 - Beautiful Place
16. Version
17. Nereus Joseph - Fundimental Principles Of Life
18. Vivian Jones - Rastafari Is My Life
19. Version
20. Junior Dan - Sligoville Tobacco
21. Allan Kingpin - Stand Up For A Right
22. The Prophets - Babylon A Fall
23. Tony Tuff - Falling Babylon


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART 10

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART 10
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, October 2008 - When Augustus Pablo's melodica, King Tubby's echo's, and Paul Blackman's voice open up number ten of the Roots Ministry series of Mixdowns, the tone is set. Deep, deep Dub and Roots U just can't refuse!

The previous episode of the Roots Ministry Podcast predominantly contained contemporary UK DUB and Roots. This one, selected by Papa Jason, brings us back in time to the island where Reggae originated.

The time of Rockers. The time of Augustus Pablo, King Tubby and Jacob Miller. All of which are present in what can only be described as yet another gem of the collector of the better (DUB) Reggae Music.

Mixed in a no-nonsense style, the show brings us to the very same heigher heights in which the music was produced in the first place.

Take a sip, and disturb your neighbors!


PLAYLIST

01 Paul Blackman - Earth Wind And Fire
02 Augustus Pablo - Black Gunn
03 Augustus Pablo - Eastman Sound / Version
04 Norris Reid - Black Force
05 Jacob Miller - Baby I Love You So
06 Big Youth - Cassava Rock / Version
07 Rockers Int. Band - Look Within Dub
08 Te-Track - Look Within Yourself
09 Delroy Williams - Three Men In A Truckback
10 Jah Bull - Free Jah Jah Children
11 Lloyd Hemmings - Fight This War
12 Blacka T - Ethiopian Calling
13 Augustus Pablo - Drum Song
14 Icho Candy - Babylon / Version
15 Ruffy And Tuffy - Harm No One
16 Lloyd Hemmings - Who Rule / Version
17 Johnny Osbourne - Version / Cool Down Rudeboy
18 Johnny Osbourne - A Fool Says In His Heart
19 Blacka T - A Java / Version
20 Yamie Bolo - Bowl Must Full / Version


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART 9

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART 9
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, October 2008 - One hour of (almost) stricktly UK DUB and Roots, mixed skillfully straight from vinyl, with nuff jingles and effects: the 9th episode of the excellent Roots Ministry Mixdown series is a highlight among highlights!

German-based Roots Ministry stands at rather lonely heights when it comes to Sound Systems who share their works with the online (DUB) Reggae community. The eight great Mixdowns and several other releases we have reviewed definitely enlarged to collection of the true self-respecting collector of the better works, and episode number nine is no exception to that fact.

The bulk of selection are rough and tough UK DUB and Roots tunes, with the necessary consciousness attached to the crucial riddims and Dub effects.

Another highlight among highlights!


PLAYLIST

01 Errol Bellot - Roots Gone International
02 Shining Version
03 I Lue - War In The Projects
04 Pressure - Fire Is Getting Redder
05 Lutan Fyah - Fiyah In The Barn
06 Niyorah - Kick-Up
07 Michael Rose - Mama Africa
08 Lutan Fyah - What We Need Today
09 Daddy Rings - Dispensation Of Life
10 Elijah Prophet - Children Of The World
11 Gloria Version
12 Tula - Prophecy
13 Ras Echo - Long Time
14 Version
15 Far East - Blow Down Babylon
16 Sister Naima - My Country
17 Earl 16 - Holy Land
18 Roberto Sanchez - Mankind
19 Ranking Forrest - Mankind Round 2
20 Madu Messenger - Seeds Of Love
21 I - Plant - River Blow
22 Princess Jewels - Walk With Jah
23 KB Allstars - Dub With Jah
24 Zion Train - Boxes And Amps RMX
25 Dubateers - We Rule
26 Sound Iration - Patient Dub

DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

Monday, October 20, 2008

ALPHA AND OMEGA WITH JONAH DAN - WATCHING OVER I

ALPHA AND OMEGA WITH JONAH DAN - WATCHING OVER I
DUBROOM VIDEO REVIEW




WWW, October 2008 - Alpha and Omega love their audience enough to have their video technician create a clip around a tune even before it is officially release and they put it online for you and I to enjoy.

Alpha and Omega are a leading force within UK DUB with their own specific sound and basslines. Deep, deep basslines!

They've had a whole legion of vocalists voicing over their original riddims and the result is something very unique that you just cannot afford to dislike when you're into DUB, even "just" into Reggae Music.

In "Watching Over I", UK vocalist Jonah Dan sings over the riddim, chanting spiritual words of wisdom that will appeal to the Righteous Rastaman and others who know themselves. The tune, according to the description given by Alpha and Omega who put the video online themselves, is currently in it's pre-release stage.

A sign of Raspect to the audience, let's give them Raspect too and buy their material as they need it!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Sunday, October 19, 2008

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART EIGHT

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART EIGHT
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, October 2008 - Selector Papa Jason of the German based Roots Ministry Sound System takes us into a Dancehall vibe extraordinaire! Digital vibes galore and well versatile. When you can take it, that is.

Ever since Jammy's came up with the now legendary Sleng Teng riddim, Jamaican studio's have been applying digital possibilities with various results. Some people went wild, while others couldn't apprecilove it at all. The debate continues until this day...

Much has happened after Sleng-Teng, obviously. The specific UK DUB and Roots sound rests heavily on the sound of the Drum computer, for example. But also Dancehall and Jamaican Roots of today has gone digital for a large degree.

The 8th episode of the Roots Ministry Mixdown series takes us -for the most part- back to the early days of the digital era. Many things were kinda new, even revolutionary, and so experimentation was the order of the day.

Simply a very, very interesting experience to hear some of those early digi-tunes again. In a time wherein a whole generation grew up with digital music and many prejudice of back then have faded in the trails of history, it's never a bad thing to know where we're coming from: another service from the Roots Ministry for which we give thanks.

Nuff thanks!

PLAYLIST

01 Wayne Marshall - Give Me The Mix / Version
02 Errol Bellot - Sound Ina Fury / Version
03 Mikey General - Dance Hall Vibes / Version
04 Lilly Melody - Cease Fire Selector / Version
05 Little Kirk - Ghetto People Broke / Version
06 Horace Ferguson - Jah Order
07 Early B - Imitator
08 U Roy - Haul & Pull / Version
09 King Kong - Aids / Version
10 Chris Wayne - Johnny Too Bad
11 Santa Ranking - Nah Put It Deh
12 Jnr. Delgado - Raggamuffin Year
13 Blacka T - Run Come Yah / Version
14 Yabby You - Nah Fallow Dem (Mix 1 u. 2) / Version
15 Yami Bolo - Marcus Link With Selassie I
16 Marcus Garvey - Garvey Chant / Version

DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART SEVEN

ROOTS MINISTRY MIXDOWN PART SEVEN
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, October 2008 - Selecting and mixing is an art requiring skills and talents. Germany based Sound System ROOTS MINISTRY masters the arts and comes back once again to serve the needs of Roots Lovers all over the world.

In the meantime, we've reached the seventh episode in the Roots Ministry Mix Down series. Selected and mixed by Sista Simone, here is another hour filled with Vocals, Dubs and DJ tracks. Everything skillfully mixed together in different and surprising ways, accompanied by crucial sirens and jingles.

The show has a clear emphasis on Jamaican Rockers and Rub a Dub from the 1970's/1980's, but isn't limited to that era and time. After a while, we go into UK DUB and Roots by Jah Shaka and others.

Consciousness galore: this show will warm up the hearts and souls of the Roots People all over the world who need Roots Music as part of spiritual nourishment.


PLAYLIST
01. Reggae On Top All Stars - His Majesty Dub 2
02. Twinkle Brothers - I Will Alway's Praise Jah
03. Barry Isaac - Teachings Of His Majesty
04. Reggae On Top All Stars - Breaking Down Barriers Dub 2
05. Reggae On Top All Stars - His Majesty Dub 3
06. Barrington Levy - Praise His Name
07. Leroy Brown feat. Clint Eastwood - Color Barrier
08. Byron Otis - Blackman Shoes
09. Trixx Matics - Blackman Horns
10. Boom Back - Ghetto Life
11. Symbols - Motherless Children
12. Ranking Caretaker - No Dash It We
13. Jnr. Delgado - Famine
14. DEB Music Players - Umoja
15. Idren Natural - Justice
16. Jah Shaka meets Mighty Massa - Version
17. Keety Roots - His Foundations
18. Foundations Dub
19. Danny Red - Jahovah
20. Earl Sixteen - Jah Jah love I
21. Bubblers & The G P All Stars - Love I Dub

DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

OLD RIDDIM, NEW ROOTS

OLD RIDDIM, NEW ROOTS
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - "Old Riddim, New Roots" gives us an insight into the way Reggae Riddims are taken from one generation into the next and things are added with each new style.

Even though fortunately new riddims come into existence almost every day, the old ones are revamped with each new generation of Reggae Music as well.

This is done in a wide variety of ways, some technically and some instrumentally. One might sample a loop and base a whole new tune on just that one loop, others will re-do the old riddim and yet there is a third group that will do even other things.

This episode of the "PotCast" (No Typo there) gives us a wonderful example of such new skool recordings.

We're introduced to a wide variety of styles and sounds, which in itself is rather interesting because many seem to think that contemporary Reggae all sounds the same because of the digital technology that is incorporated.

Heavy Skanking!


PLAYLIST

01. Sizzla - Just one of those days - VP
02. Richie Spice - Gideon Boots - Digital B
03. Anthony B - Fed Up - Digital B
04. Anthony Cruz - Halfway Tree - Footsteps
05. Tanya Stephens - To The Rescue - Footsteps
06. Glen Washington - Pour Your Sugar - Joe Frasier
07. Screwdriver - Owe We - Joe Frasier
08. Kashief Lindo - Paradise Jamdown - Joe Frasier
09. Honorebel - Wife - Joe Frasier
10. U Roy - Fisherman style - Blood & Fire
11. Capleton - Words of mine - Reggae Central
12. Luciano - Man Of Jah Order - Blood & Fire
13. Yami Bolo - Conspiracy - Blood & Fire
14. Anthony B - Good & Bad - Blood & Fire
15. Screwdriver - Mi Nuh Like - Jasfar
16. Yami Bolo - Wrong - Jasfar
17. Johnny Osbourne & Burro Banton - The truth - Massive B
18. Sizzla - Give Jah thanx - Massive B
19. Richie Spice - Youths A So Cold - Massive B
20. Buju Banton - Tormented Souls - Notorious
21. Morgan Heritage - Wall Of Babylon - Kickin
22. Wenchman & Crusher - Ganja Baby - Kickin
23. Perfect - Till the soil - Ball A Fire Muzik


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

MORE ROOTICAL CULTURE, SELECTOR!

MORE ROOTICAL CULTURE, SELECTOR!
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - When the music starts playing after 30 seconds, DJ Ian Irie has already taken us straight into a DEEP ROOTS VIBE.

Ambassada Hi-Power is a UK based Sound System that traces it's roots back to the 1970's. Obviously, this says a thing or two and one of these "things" is SHAKA.
JAH SHAKA, to be precise.

"More Rootical Culture, Selector!" opens up with a big up to the man whose name is synonymous with militant and conscious Roots Music presented with deep bass and upfull lyrics. JAH Shaka's Sound System has inspired and keeps inspiring people to Chant Down Babylon too.

In the UK, Conscious and militant Sound Systems even form a genre in themselves. You could speak about a Rootical Culture, definitely. And so it is no surprise when one Conscious Sound System bigs up another instead of mashing him down as we see so often in other Dancehalls.

The Rootical Culture can also be recognized by experiencing -rather than listening- to the Podcast. Reggae Music productions from all times and places come together and DJ Ian Irie's Mixing Board makes sure that everything blends together into a harmonic Inity.

Indeed: More Rootical Culture, Selector!

PLAYLIST

01) Shaka Anthem
02) Theme from Gun Court - Harry Mudie
03) No Parole
04) Jungle Feeling Dub
05) Oh Jah - Roger Robin
06) Ina Mount Zion
07) Zion High Dub
08) Wall Of Jerusalem _ Yabby U
09) Jerusalem Dub
10) Warrior - Junior Delgado
11) Tarry Yah Dub
12) Natural Melody
13) Organic Dub
14) Step It Dub - M&F
15) Lump Sum - L.Thompson
16) Country Road - Morgan Heritage
17) Bush Dub
18) War In The East - Wailing Souls
19) Love Jah Children - Big Youth
20) Jah Dub
21) Overcome- P. Hunningale

DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

MORE ROOTICAL SELECTOR!

MORE ROOTICAL SELECTOR!
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - Heavy, heavy Roots you can't refuse: Ambassada Hi-Power's DJ Ian Irie comes once again with a selection of vocals and dubs that will make the weak heart drop.

We call it rootical, because the music is Roots Reggae Music. Roots Music which provides the foundation and the life for both the branches and the fruits. This foundational Reggae Music more often than not comes with Conscious lyrics or titles.

Conscious themes and vibes are Ambassada Hi-Power's musical trade mark. With that, they are part of a Culture of Conscious Sound Systems which especially in the UK has a long-lasting history and future as well!

"More Rootical, Selector!" is a traditional Rootical mix by one of the foundational UK based Sound Systems. It's a hard core mix with deep dubs and penetrating vocal tracks that lasts just over an hour.

We'll hear gems like Johnny Clarke's version of Crazy Baldhead and Barrington Levy's Bounty Hunter together with heavy UK DUB productions by Mafia and Fluxy, the UK's very own Riddim Twins.

When we arrive at Bunny Wailer's "Cool Runnings", we have another uplifting experience behind us, that will keep us craving for more Rootical Culture, Selector!


PLAYLIST

01) Crazy Baldhead - J.Clarke
02) Chase Dem Crazy
03) Dancing On The Rainbow - Wayne McArthur
04) Rainbow Dub
05) Reality - Mykel Rose
06) I Hear them bawling - Dixie Peach
07) Ghetto Youth No Worry
08) Ghetto Dub
09) Concious Dub - D. Judah
10) Where you Hiding Dub - Mafia & Fluxy
11) Freedom Dub - Max Romeo
12) Bounty Hunter - B. Levy
13) Jah Sey So - J.Osbourne
14) Jah See Dem A Come - J. Clarke
15) Cool Runnings - Bunny Wailer


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

GHETTO ORGAN STYLE

GHETTO ORGAN STYLE
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - When Toots and the Maytalls performed their track "Reggae Got Soul", they could very well have the Ghetto Organ riddim in mind.

One-Riddim CD's are usually interesting for DJ's who like to play a different version all the time. On their Podcasts, for example. For there is a big difference between a CD and a Podcast.

that's why One-Riddim Podcasts need to have some relevance, for even the most staunch lover of Reggae Music will not really like to listen to just one riddim for let's say half an hour or -in the case of this podcast- three quarters.

They will like Ghetto Organ Style, though.

The Ghetto Organ riddim itself is very soulful. You'll hear it as soon as you downloaded the Podcast and start to play it. The tune you will hear may not be recognized as Reggae at all!

As the mix goes further, we discover just how strong and flexible Reggae Music really is. Yes, Jamaican Music is known to absorb and integrate the vibes-of-the-times, but not too many people will realize just how far this goes.

The music definitely is timely. Throughout the whole show, we will not leave the realms of the 1970's even though the theme of the riddim (Living In The Ghetto) hasn't lost one bit of it's actuality...


PLAYLIST

#01 Marlena Shaw - Woman of the ghetto
#02 Jackie Mittoo - Ghetto Organ
#03 Lennie Hibbert - More Creation
#04 Prince Francis - Street Doctor
#05 Phyllis Dillon - Woman On the Ghetto
#06 I-Roy - Sidewalk Killer
#07 I-Roy - Dr. Phibbs
#08 Vin Gordon - Sidewalk Doctor
#09 Pablove Black - Poco Tempo
#10 Hortense Ellis - Women Of The Ghetto
#11 Prince Jazzbo - Apollo 16
#12 Jackie Mittoo - Sidewalk Doctor (Disco Mix)


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

STOP THAT TRAIN #8

STOP THAT TRAIN #8
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - A very interesting 12" by UB40 is just one highlight of another massive Podcast by the UK based collective behind "Stop That Train". Don't let it pass you by, for the mix may not be available for download forever!

Johnny Clarke's "Leggo Violence" is a massive tune, even decades after it was originally released. That could be a reason just why Stop That Train #8 opens up with it.

Another reason could be, that the second selection is a very interesting "cover" version (including a heavy DUB) of "Leggo Violence", containing some "very UK" DUB Poetry.

Interesting seems to be the best word to describe the 56 minutes non-stop mix of Drum-And-Bass niceness. We're taken back into time, pulled back into this century, flown to Jamaica to meet spiritual people and driven to the UK where UB40 explains to us why they do not believe in JAH.

Yes, that's right. There are some people who play Reggae and do not believe in JAH.

Some of them are hypocrites because they will sing about Him anyway, but this cannot be said about the band who named themselves after the well-fare form they had to fill in before they became one of the top Reggae bands of the world.

"Don't Let It Pass You By" is a very heartical tune by the band, even though statements such as "There Is No One Coming With That Freedom Train" and suggestions how spiritual people are blind will cause disagreements with many who know themselves to be on that train anyway and don't consider themselves to be blind at all...

But after listening to the excellent tune with superb DUB version, no one can be in their right mind and deny UB40's well-deserved place within Reggae Music.

A great Podcast, with nuff brain-food!


PLAYLIST

01. Johnny Clarke - Leggo Violence
02. Gary Clail - Another Hard Man
03. Earl 'Chinna' Smith - Butta Pan Dub
04. Josey Wales - The General
05. Sugar Belly - Cousin Joe Pt.1
06. Joe Gibbs - Crucial Attempt
07. Joe Gibbs - Power Pack
08. Dub Pistols - You'll Never Find (Feat. Rodney P)
09. Groove Armada - Soundboy Rock
10. Creation Rebel - Creation Cycle
11. UB40 - Don't Let It Pass You By (12" Version)
12. Serge Gainsbourg - Javanaise Dub
13. Dr. Pablo & Cry Tuff Allstars - African Melody
14. Gorillaz/Spacemonkeyz - Tomorrow Comes Today (Banana Baby)

DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

Mukti Sistema Sonoro - Leão Selecta

Mukti Sistema Sonoro - Leão Selecta
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - You don't need a language gene to figure out that here is Mukti Sound System presenting a Lion Selection.

You need a Reggae gene for it, or a DUB gene. Do you have one?


The Lion Selection opens up with a short reasoning by the Rastafari Elders. If you are -like some others- claiming that DUB cannot carry a message and is basically "dumb" music, you have just woken up the Lion and you really shouldn't do that.

Or maybe you should and really feel the strength of DUB. For if there is one thing that describes this excellent Podcast, it must be the well-placed title, even though it is written in a language that many do not understand.

DUB truly is one of the strongest disciplines within Reggae Music and even beyond that. As the words are scarce, the music obviously appeals to more parts of our consciousness than just the language section.

A Lion communicates without words. You could say, that until a certain level DUB does the same. DUB appeals straight to those parts in our soul that deal with things "unspeakable".

Just ask Mukti and he will tell you.

In fact, he already did and the result is reviewed right here.

Mukti's Lion Selection basically consists out of the better DUB material from all over the world. Material that isn't necessarily that known within the circles of those that know their Reggae and especially their DUB.
We will hear King Jammy dubbing the Japanese band Dry and Heavy, for example. Zenzile is there too, a great DUB band that many may never have heard of before.

From the top to the very last drop, everything is mixed very skillfully. Non-stop, we are taken from one crucial selection into the next. As we move through a wide variety of vibes and styles, times and places, the message is clear: Those who claim DUB is "dumb music" are themselves really deaf.


PLAYLIST

01. Dialogue Ras Bigga - Rastafari Elders
02. Zentown - Zentone
03. Inner corona - Mad Professor
04. Morning Daylight - Zenzile
05. Nova dub - Kanka
06. Rorima - Mad Professor
07. King jammy's - the revenge of super power allstars
08. Johnny Clarke - A Ruffer Version-At King Tubby's
09. Do dub up your fight - King Jammy Meets Dry & Heavy
10. Weak Heart Dub - Ruts D C vs. Mad Professor
11. Sheba's Journey - Alpha & Omega
12. harmony dub - King Jammy Meets Dry & Heavy
13. JOHNNY CLARKE DUBWISE END

DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

STEEL PULSE -STATE OF EMERGENCY

STEEL PULSE -STATE OF EMERGENCY
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, December 2007 - Emerged from the Punky Reggae Party back in the 1970's, UK based Reggae band Steel Pulse still stands strong as we can see in the 9 minutes of this video.

Steel Pulse has a very special way of getting the message across.

Their music is their own special kind of Reggae, which some would call commercial. You couldn't say this about the message, though, which makes the band kind of special.

It was Bob Marley who started this tradition of playing in a way that will appeal to a world-wide audience hooked on commercial music, but with an undiluted message.

Watch the band as they play decades-old tune that hasn't lost one bit of it's relevance in word and sound.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

DESI ROCK RIDDIM

DESI ROCK RIDDIM
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - The Desi Rock Riddim first surfaced around July 2007, but has yet to find it's way through the official distribution channels.

Brand New, Good For You!

Natty King, Lutan Fyah as well as a whole host of other contemporary Roots and Dancehall vocalist have already done their work and provided the brand new Desi Rock Riddim with some crucial words.

The riddim itself is a rather melodic Roots riddim with a One Drop drum and groovy bassline that will shut down the mouths of those that claim how Roots Music is a thing of the past.

In this mini-podcast by the Dancecrasher Crew, we can listen to just over eight minutes of the really nice riddim. The crew warn us against websites who sell MP3 files of the riddim, because at the time this review is written -around December 2007- the riddim has yet to be released officially.

Enjoy!


PLAYLIST

1. Lutan Fyah - Never Once
2. Ginja - Damn Those People
3. Nature - Down With Corruption
4. Puddy Roots - Jah Soldier
5. Step Out feat. Pia - No More Folly
6. Nah Switch - Love Life
7. Natty King - The Heat Is On
8. Teflon - Nuh Progress.


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

ROOTICAL PART 8: TOO MUCH BACKBITING

ROOTICAL PART 8: TOO MUCH BACKBITING

DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - In another massive mix that will bless the Roots People and drive away the vampires, DJ Ian Irie presents one hour of pure Roots and Culture from several times and places.

As he touches every knob on his mixing table and the effect button like an addict, DJ Ian Irie of the Ambassada Hi-Power Sound System plays one piece of UK DUB and Roots after the other Jamaican DUB and Roots.

This is the kind of mix you preferably want to listen to on a HiFi set that can produce a lot, and I mean a lot, of bass. Combined with a lot of volume, you will start to dance from the top to the very last drop.

Most of the Ambassada podcasts go further than "just" presenting Reggae Music the way it should be presented by a Sound System, and Rootical Part Eight is no exception to that rule.

As the name suggests, there is actually a theme or reasoning behind the selection and usually the lyrical topics in the selection will provide lots and lots of food for thought.

Enough food to meditate during the long, long DUB parts for which we give thanks as well!


PLAYLIST

01. Jahovia - Matic16
02. Roots Gone International
03. International Dub
04. Hustling
05. Give Thanks and Praise - Barry Brown
06. Vanity - Horace Andy
07. Vanity Dub
08. Burn Dem - Turbelance
09. Burnin Blaze
10. Fire Dub
11. Mankind Cease - Luciano
12. Cut and Clear - Mikey General
13. Brother David - Luciano
14. Its All in The Game - Mikey Spice
15. Jah Love - Sugar Minott
16. Too Much Backbiting - Sugar Minott

DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

BUNNY WAILER - ROOTS, RADICS, ROCKERS, REGGAE (LIVE, FORT CHARLES, JAMAICA 1988)

BUNNY WAILER - ROOTS, RADICS, ROCKERS, REGGAE (LIVE, FORT CHARLES, JAMAICA 1988)
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, December 2007 - In 1988, this tune was already a classic. In 2007, this video is historical. Behold one more reason why Reggae cyaan die!

The last part of the 1980's was a very special time, in a way. Ragga and Dancehall were hot, while in Jamaican Studio's digital technology slowly took over much of the analogue material used in the decades before that.

The "War on Drugs" had taken it's toll, too, when many of the Ganja Fields were burned down and cokane flooded Jamaica like never before. Guns and violence were obviously attached to all of this and it wasn't like Jamaica was a peaceful place before that, either.

It was the years before what some call the Rasta Renaissance would be a fact with Tony Rebel and others bringing back Consciousness and Righteousness, too.

It is within this context, that we meet with Bunny Wailer in one of his Jamaican performances. He's about to sing the tune called Roots, Radics, Rockers, Reggae which deals directly with the fact that Roots will always have to be there, for what is a tree without roots?

JAH B is known for his impressive performances, and this one is no exception to that either. He uses his whole body to express the lyrics he sings and continually interacts with the audience and the band.

The sound that the band produces, was very contemporary in that time. The drummer, for example, would use a combination of acoustic and digital drums and the keyboards were updated as well.

Enjoy!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Friday, October 17, 2008

CHOC'LATE AND QUEEN IFRICA - FRIENDS

CHOC'LATE AND QUEEN IFRICA - FRIENDS
DUBROOM VIDEO REVIEW




WWW, October 2008 - In this video, we meet female vocalists Queen Ifrica and Choc'late as they hail up family and friendship in an upfull, joyful tune.

Positive vibes fe true in this video clip produced by Wayne Benjamin, a hard working brother whose many productions all feature up and coming Jamaican vocalists. Time and time again, he provides another proof of the fact that consciousness has not left Jamaica, in spite of what some people sometimes might think.

The two sistren in featured in this video clip big up friendship and family in a heartfelt tune. The riddim is upfull and joyful, has a few slices of dancehall but can overall be considered as a fine, contemporary, Roots Reggae tune.

Feel!


CLICK HERE TO WATCH

ZEMA - SON AND DAUGHTER OF JAH

ZEMA - SON AND DAUGHTER OF JAH
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, December 2007 - Roots Dawta ZEMA teams up with the Gladiators and the result is an upfull Roots Reggae track with an encouraging message to the children of the Most High JAH.

ZEMA is one of Reggae's top female vocalists. She is based in Jamaica, where she also records and she does so for a long time. All her releases feature Reggae Originators and uplifting, conscious messages expressing her faith in the Most High without apology.

The sistren tours the whole world with Reggae Legends the Gladiators, and in this video they also perform together. In what could be called a duet, the Roots Dawta and Reggae Originator meet and identify themselves to be children of the Most High on a crucial Roots Reggae beat.

Crucial!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

SUMMER SOUND IN CANADA

SUMMER SOUND IN CANADA
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, December 2007 - Summer Sound In Canada tells us all about the history of Reggae in Canada. The mere fact that the documentary was shot in it's entirety during the 1970's and features several well-known Jamaican artists should say a thing or two...

The documentary, which is part of a CD series called "From Jamaica to Toronto", has been graciously donated to the online (DUB) Reggae community by the publishers. It tells the story of the birth and early development of Jamaican Reggae in Canada.

There's some semi-acting going on, but this is just to make a couple of things clear. For example, the fact that many Jamaicans migrated to Canada even back in the 1970's which caused the birth of a Reggae scene in the North-American country.

Well known names such as Jackie Mittoo, Johnny Osbourne and Willy Williams, the Canadian Reggae scene was not to be underestimated. But still, it is a part of Reggae History that is not widely known and if only because of that, Summer Sound In Canada should be watched by every self-respecting Reggae fan.

The name "Summer Sound" doesn't just refer to the fact that the Jamaican climate had an influence on the music itself. It's also a reference the name of the very first Reggae Label in Canada, which some even say was Canada's answer to Lee Perry's Black Ark Studio.

We'll meet with Willy Williams and Jackie Mittoo in Canada, as they record in the -then freshly started- Summer Studio. Great sights from sessions in the studio, interesting interviews and sceneries complete a very interesting and historically very relevant document.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

EARLY B - VISIT OF KING SELASSIE (LIVE, 1985)

EARLY B - VISIT OF KING SELASSIE (LIVE, 1985)
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, December 2007 - Almost 20 years after the event, Early B -dressed up like Haile Selassie- gives an impressive musical report of the Emperor's visit to Jamaica.

The year is 1985, and Early B is about to give a massive performance in Jamaica. Backed up by a crucial band playing the "Pass The Kutchie" Riddim, the Rub a Dub MC enters stage dressed up like Haile Selassie when he visited Jamaica back in 1966 and starts to talk about it.

Musically, that is!

In retro-spective, it is kind of clear how the musical developments in Jamaica were leading from the more chilled-out Rub a Dub beats towards what we now know as Ragga or Dancehall. The band plays and stops, but doesn't quite get there were they would be a few years later.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

DRUM SONG STYLE

DRUM SONG STYLE
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - Musically, the Drum Song Riddim incorporates the Nyabinghy rhythm as well as the standard Reggae rhythm. So in a way, "Drum Song Style" really refers to a specific style!

When you dance on an ultra-new Dancehall release, chances are you're really dancing on a decades-old riddim first played in Studio One. The Drum Song riddim has it's cradle in that studio too, when Jackie Mittoo released the tune back in 1967 (Source: JAMRID.com).

With a very monotonous bassline and a drum that resembles the Nyabinghy as much as the standard Reggae rhythm, the riddim has served as backing for many, many conscious and spiritual tunes by just too many artists to mention.

"Drum Song Style" contains an excellent selection of twenty-one tracks incorporating the Drum Song Riddim. The nice thing is, that the riddim is used in so many different variations, that you don't even realize how you're listening to a one-riddim mix and that says a thing given the fact that the podcast lasts well over 50 minutes.


PLAYLIST

01. Jackie Mittoo - Drum Song
02. Jim Nastic - Chanting
03. Jim Nastic & Soul Vendors - Chanting Version
04. Devon 'Soul' Russell - Drum Song
05. Badoo - Rockin' Of The Ten Thousand
06. King Tubby - Dubbin' Of The Ten Thousand
07. King Tubby - Class One Dub
08. Ronnie Davis - Jah Jah Jehoviah
09. King Tubby & The Aggrovators - Jah Jah Version
10. The Jays - Lets Give Thanks and Praises
11. Prince Far I - Every Time I Hear the Word
12. Prince Far I - PSALM 1
13. The Wackies Rhythm Force - Drum Song
14. Jah Stitch - Make a Joyful Noise to Jah
15. Joe Gibbs & The Professionals - Power Pack
16. Scientist - Drum Song Dub
17. Willie Lindo - Drum Song
18. Augustus Pablo - Drum Song
19. Devon Russell - Money Problem
20. Jackie Mittoo - Brain Mark
21. Jackie Mittoo Featuring Marjorie Whylie - Drum Song


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

ADRIAN SHERWOOD AND ON-U PART 2

ADRIAN SHERWOOD AND ON-U PART 2
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - Get ready for a deep, deep journey into the mystical realms of Adrian Sherwood's On-U Sound from the early 1980's into the present time.

When Adrian Sherwood started releasing his experiments and DUB excursions beyond the realms of Reggae, he took a special place in the history books of Reggae Music. Until this present day he maintains his position as head of one of the most remarkable stables UK DUB.

In fact, counting Adrian Sherwood among the UK DUB engineers would not give him the credit he truly deserves. He has a truly outernational perspective on his productions and even though Reggae and Jamaican Reggae in particular is the roots of his products, nobody is really surprised when he will incorporate elements of other musical streams and styles in his releases as well.

Ravi Shankar, for example. The Indian Sitar player made his name during the 1960's when his works (called Raga's) were made popular by the Beatles (or some other band).

We will hear him, as well as a whole number of artists produced or released by Adrian Sherwood in what truly is an outernational experience, a deep deep DUB Journey beyond the realms of Reggae!


PLAYLIST

01. Yes its bless (alternate take) - Dub Syndicate (2001)
02. Can´t stop jumping - Bim Sherman & Dub Syndicate (1983)
03. Resolution (part 2/version 2) - Singers & Players (1982)
04. Dervish chant - African Head Charge (1990)
05. Learning to cope with cowardice - Mark Stewart & The Maffia (1983)
06. Cliched dub slave - Adrian Sherwood (2006)
07. Rise up - Ghetto Priest (2003)
08. Le temps simmobilise - Samia Farah (1999)
09. Sinners - Little Axe (2004)
10. Paradise of nada - Adrian Sherwood (2003)
11. Free the marijuana (part 1) - Audio Active (1994)
12. Ravi Shankar - Dub Syndicate & Rootsman (1996)


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

LOVE IS THE MESSAGE

LOVE IS THE MESSAGE
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, December 2007 - Nineteen crucial tracks full of love and romance! Even Marvin Gaye is present, as he rides Bob Marley's "Waiting in Vain" in what is another fine selection by DJ Dr. Tahl.

Sweet Lovers Music is no rarity within Reggae Music. From X-rated Dancehall (often referred to as "slackness") to sweet romance and everything in between, there is a Reggae tune about it.

And when there is one, there are many!

Of course, there is Gregory "Cool Ruler" Isaacs, whose name is more or less synonymous with Lover's Rock. There is Lincoln "Sugar" Minott, whose sweet soulful voice will out-sing just about any so-called superstar. There is Echo Minott, too, who has the dubious honor to have first coined the phrase "slackness" in one of his releases.

Of course they are all present in the 11th episode of DJ Dr. Tahl's excellent podcast, alongside a whole host of known and lesser known artists. There is even a track by Marvin Gaye, riding the "Waiting in Vain" riddim.


PLAYLIST

01 Gregory Isaacs - Night Nurse
02 Gregory Isaacs - Your Smiling Face
03 John Holt - You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine
04 John Holt - Love You To Want Me
05 John Holt - Anymore
06 Horace Andy - Baby I Love You
07 Horace Andy - Tell Me Why
08 Horace Andy - Ain't No Sunshine
09 Leroy Smart - Waiting in Vain
10 Marvin Gaye - Sexual Healing (Waiting in Vain riddim)
11 Peter Hunnigale - Let's Stay Together
12 Mary J. Blige - Be Without You (Istanbul Riddim )
13 Angie Stone meets The Viceroy's - My Man (feat. Floetry)
14 Echo Minott - Love Problems (Joe Gibbs)
15 Barrington Levy - My Woman (Joe Gibbs)
16 Marcia Aitken - I'm Still in Love with You (Joe Gibbs)
17 Cornell Campbell - Two Timer (Joe Gibbs)
18 Ranking Joe - Stop You Comming & Come
19 Joya Landis - Moonlight Lover (Trojan)


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

BURNING SPEAR - SLAVERY DAYS

BURNING SPEAR - SLAVERY DAYS
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, November 2007 - Just like he did with his classic track "Marcus Garvey", Burning Spear takes his band into the Dutch studio and plays some crucial semi-live vibes into the multi-track recorder and video camera.

Winston Rodney is second to Bob Marley when it comes to his historical conquest of the western world with massive live performances that would appeal to the band-oriented audiences of Europe and America.

He started as part of the vocal harmony group Burning Spear, but quickly went on for a solo carrier under the same name. Together with his "Burning Band", Winston Rodney still is a living legend when it comes to his performances and recordings.

An interesting combination of a live performance and a studio recording can be seen in this professionally video-taped session in which Burning Spear delivers a few of his best tracks together with his crucial band.

Feel!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

BOB MARLEY & THE WAILERS REHEARSING "COULD YOU BE LOVED", SEPTEMBER 14 1980

BOB MARLEY & THE WAILERS REHEARSING "COULD YOU BE LOVED", SEPTEMBER 14 1980
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, November 2007 - Nine minutes of what is claimed to be the last filmed rehearsal footage of the King of Reggae!

Bob Marley was known to be kind of really strict when it came to his musical leadership during the times wherein he toured around the world as Bob Marley and the Wailers.

Whether that is so, can be seen here on what is claimed to be the last filmed rehearsal of the band. During the video we'll meet Bob Marley and the Wailers in the Criteria Studio's in Miami Florida (USA), during a rehearsal at September 14 1980.

The vibes of the time are perfectly registered, even though the sounds and sights are not of the highest quality. But that is not of anyone's list of priority when it comes to viewing material like this.

Seen?

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

MICHAEL ROSE - SHINE EYE GAL (LIVE)

MICHAEL ROSE - SHINE EYE GAL (LIVE)
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, November 2007 - Will he be able to do it without the help of those that were there when this track was born? The former lead singer of Black Uhuru gives the answer at his performance at the German Chiemsee festival.

Yes, he's getting older: Michael Rose, the former lead singer of Black Uhuru whose voice turned out to become as similar with the name of the group as Sly and Robbie. His dreads are much longer and he has his own way of wearing them.

His performance at Chiemsee marked the absence of those that were with him during that time as much as the brother's ability to lead a band and backing vocals into performing such a classic tune as the completely politikally inkorrekt Shine Eye Gal.

See!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

NATURAL ITES - PICTURE ON THE WALL

NATURAL ITES - PICTURE ON THE WALL
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, November 2007 - In spite of the successful "Picture on the Wall", Vocal Harmony Group the Natural Ites remain to be one of the more unknown Vocal Harmony Groups.

Taken from a VHS tape recorded back in the 1980's, this video capture the Natural Ites somewhere in the era of Rub a Dub style. Picture on the Wall was first launched during the 1980's, when Vocal Harmony Groups were not born in the same frequency as in the decade before that.

The Natural Ites took up the responsibility to fill up that vacuum and "Picture on the Wall" seemed to be an appropriate way to do it. However, it remained to be one of the few titles known to a larger part of the (DUB) Reggae audience, even those that are into the Vocal Harmony sounds.

A full blown Reggae Band backs them up, as they perform their successful tune. Even though the sound quality of the actual video is influenced by the law of decay that terrorizes creation ever since our ancestors took from that tree, the video will be a heartwarming experience of recognition and introduction to a fine Jamaican Harmony group.


CLICK HERE TO WATCH
NOTE: One attentive reader of the Dubroom pointed out to the fact that the Natural Ites hailed from the UK, not from Jamaica. Massive thanks for the information, and we stand corrected!

ROOTICAL PART 7: PAUSE FOR THE CAUSE

ROOTICAL PART 7: PAUSE FOR THE CAUSE
DUBROOM MP3 REVIEW




WWW, November 2007 - "Too much claiming of the word DUB without foundation", says the selector of the Ambassada High Power. Subsequently, he delivers yet another foundational mix to the online (DUB) Reggae Massive.

And yes, there's DUB too!


An Ambassada Hi Power Podcast is an experience. Each one of them will come with their own vibe, and that vibe is a dominant vibe. Even when you know the tunes, as they become part of the mix you'll hear a completely different track in a way.

In "Pause For The Cause" there is an exceptional amount of well-known tracks by -obviously- a number of well-known artists. Jr Delgado's "Famine", "Children of JAH" by the Chantells, DJ Ian Irie makes us hear them in a completely different way.

A Jimmy Cliff DUB stands out as well, when it comes to exceptional aspects of the 11th Podcast by the Ambassada. In fact, most tracks come with their DUB or DJ (on DUB) version, like Big Youth chanting over Dennis Brown's "In His Own Way".

Roots Rockers galore in this one, another Foundational One coming from the UK based Ambassada High Power Sound System, who have been serving the (DUB) Reggae Massive with crucial music since the late 1970's!


PLAYLIST

01) Festival 10
02) Children Of Jah - Chantelles
03) Time Fe Unite - U Brown
04) Concentration - Dennis Brown
05) Concentration Dub
06) Famine - Jnr Delgado
07) In His Own Way - Dennis Brown & Big Youth
08) Go Seek your Rights - Mighty Diamonds
09) Material World - Jimmy Cliff
10) Material Dub
11) Peaceful Warrior - Taxi Gang
12) Reality - Mykel Rose
13) I don't Know - Jah Mali
14) Jah a we father - Freddie McGregor


DOWNLOAD BROADCAST (MP3)

MORE FROM THIS BROADCASTER

ZIGGY MARLEY - COULD YOU BE LOVED (LIVE)

ZIGGY MARLEY - COULD YOU BE LOVED (LIVE)
Dubroom (DUB) Reggae Video Review




WWW, November 2007 - Germany is known to have been favored by Bob Marley, and so it is no surprise to see his son performing on one of the country's most popular Reggae festivals.

South Germany, Bavaria to be precise. The place is Chiemsee, a magnificent lake and the location of one of Germany's most popular Reggae festivals. It's the perfect place for a performance by a son of the King of Reggae, given Marley's preference for Germany being one of his favorite U-ropean countries.

Thanks to the Internet, a world-wide audience can now enjoy what otherwise would have been reserved for the ones fortunate enough to be able to receive the Bavarian Public Broadcasts: Ziggy performing one of his father's greatest hits.

Himself being part of the Next Generation, his audience contains a large portion of youths as well.

Enthusiastically, both performers and audience take Bob Marley's work into their generation and make it their own in their own special way.

Enjoy!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Thursday, October 16, 2008

JAHRANIMO AND JAH CURE - I'M FREE

JAHRANIMO AND JAH CURE - I'M FREE
DUBROOM VIDEO REVIEW




WWW, October 2008 - Brand New, Good For You: straight from the prison into the studio, Jah Cure is backing Jahranimo in another great video by Jamaican producer Wayne Benjamin.

One says this, and the other says that about Jah Cure. The well-known Jamaican vocalist spent a long time in jail for rape and even though there are several sides to (t)his story, it is obvious that he is back and not intending to take an unconscious road.

Whether he "did it" or not, Jah Cure is literally a description of what indeed is the cure given by the Most High Jah, which is forgiveness and redemption. And when the Name of Jah is called upon, then He should be taken into consideration.

Indeed: Jah Cure is free and he is now free to show what his name means. When this video is to be seen in that context, nothing but positivity can be said about it.

For this really is a remarkable video, and not only in the way just -more or less- described. The music is a relaxed Roots Reggae, the vocals resemble that of Beres Hammond, it has toasting and singing, a storyline, a message, and all that in just 3 minutes and 45 seconds.

Enjoy!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Aisha - True Roots

Aisha - True Roots
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




Mixed and created in Mad Professor's ARIWA SOUND STUDIOS in the UK comes this exceptionally energetic collection of conscious tracks in a true UK DUB tradition. Digital and analogue sounds combined with soulful and heartical vibes, everything mixed skilfully by one of the true Dub Masters. Well, as you can read, I'm kind of enthusiastic about the sound which is coming out of my speakers and without a doubt into the ears of many of my neighbours too. Aisha is a very talented Reggae vocalist, and I'm not the only one who say so. For example, well known ambient dub artist THE ORB has also used her voice.

True Roots contains 9 vocal tracks and three dubs. Vocal tracks which are also mixed in Dub style, while the singer chants her righteous lyrics over the music, the voice gets transformed. The bass is deep and heavy without pushing away the rest of the audible spectrum. This is the work of a true master of Dub, as I said before.

True Roots is specially recommended to all those who are not bothered by (Drum) Computers, especially not when they play a righteous Reggae rhythm. Because the music really is TRUE ROOTS, and Aisha knows how to ride over TRUE ROOTS riddims. The One Drop, Nyabinghi and Steppers rhythms are all represented on this album. I also recommend this album to each and everyone who is into UK DUB, because you will find that from the top to the very last drop.

Freddie Mc Gregor - Come On Over

Freddie Mc Gregor - Come On Over
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




Some Reggae Artists, especially singers, release many albums with different styles. When I mention the singer Freddie Mc Gregor, many respond with that he only makes sweet poppy Reggae music, but this is only partially a true observation. Freddie Mc Gregor, a former member of the 12 Tribes of Israel organization, is also the singer of some Roots classics and conscious tunes. Just think of tracks like "Jogging" or "Big Ship", which are both true Rub a Dub/Roots classics. "Come Over" is an album mostly in the same style as the two classics that I mentioned above. When you like Big Ship, you will definitely also love this Rub a Dub album. Many of the riddims are straight on rub a dub tracks layed down by that studio band which arguably can be considered as THE Rub a Dub band, as they used to be the studio band for the legendary CHANNEL ONE (Not: Studio 1). Who? The ROOTS RADICS ofcourse.

Feel the drum and the bass as they lay down the foundation, and the instruments and effects as they accompany the mighty voice of Freddie Mc Gregor. Mighty? Yeah, there's something very powerful and majestic about his voice.

There are also a couple of tracks on the album which can't really move me, some mellow ballads (like "Go Away Pretty Woman") which would be better on a special Lover's Rock album. But the majority of tunes are really recommended, as they are Rub a Dub tunes of the highest order! Just listen to "Shortman" and you'll know what I mean. Or to his Rub a Dub rendering of Bob Marley's "Natyy Dread".

To summarize my thoughts on this album, I would definitely recommend it to each and every Rub a Dub fan, and especially those who digged Freddie Mc Gregor because of his tracks "Big Ship" and "Jogging".

Sister Carol - Jah Disciple

Sister Carol - Jah Disciple
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




As the old soul ballad goes, "this is a man's world", and so it sometimes seems with Reggae Music. When it comes to singers and players of instruments, the men are in a majority. I know some people who even think that the best Reggae must be made by men. A thing which I disagree with, and one of the examples I always give is Sister Carol. In 1981, she started to record music under the eyes of Reggae DJ Brigadier Jerry. This was the age of Rub a Dub style, as dancehall music was called in those days. Jah Disciple was released in 1989, a time in which Reggae was -again- going through a shift, like in the time Sister Carol started to record. Personally, I regard this album as one of the higher quality products in a time in which this was absolutely not a common thing.

The albums contains ten tracks and starts off with a track in true DJ tradition: "Who Can Ram The Party Like Me", with the Sistren chatting about standing firm in this "man's world", she shows a perfect style of sing-jay. In the second track she performs her lyrics in fast toasting style, a style made popular by Brigadier Jerry. Third track is the title track, and it has a very catchy riddim. When the drum and the bass roll on under the Sistren's voice, you can't sit still, you just got to move forward an skank hard. Track four is my favourite Sister Carol track: Potential. This track says: play me loud, louder, and again and again. The drum and the bass-line are of exceptional quality. After this, Sister Carol showing to be able to master the genre of Dub Poetry (Linton Kwesie Johnson, Mutabaruka) with a track livicated to knowledge about African History. The 6th track, "Lost In Space" has a slow ragga-ish vibe, and a message to think about: they go to space but they have no respect for the human race. And that is why they're "lost in space". Intelligence is the title of track after this. A track in clear rub a dub style but with -then- contemporary sounds, as you can hear on Culture's "Nuff Crisis" for example. In this one she combines Dub poetry with Rub a Dub toasting and calls upon people to use their God given brains. Track 8 is called "No Me Mommy and Daddy" and again uses a slow ragga-ish style of drumming, while in the background you hear guitar licks and horn hits. Not the strongest song on the album. A lot of Dub mixing and drum and bassline in the next one, with Sister Carol singing and toasting. The album closes with a track that I do not really like, to be honest. It's almost pure ragga and that can't really move me.

The album has an interesting mix between Drum programming and real play, a document of the later 1980's when digital production became more common and accepted. A pioneering time indeed, and I think that now, in the early 2000's things are getting somewhere. But in the style as used on this album, it's quite acceptable for both digital and analogue fan. The album contains many different vibe, as every track stand in it's own style. The more you hear the album, the more you hear this. To summarize, I would say that this album is a must in your collection, especially when you are interested in Reggae DJ-ing. This is one of the best Sister Carol albums, without apology.

Gregory Isaacs - Sly And Robbie Present Gregory Isaacs

Gregory Isaacs - Sly And Robbie Present Gregory Isaacs
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




Personally, I am always very exited over albums or tracks containing both the vocal as well as the dub version in one mix. Albums with such tracks are usually called a "Showcase" in Reggae Culture. This album almost is such a showcase: only the last one doesn't come with it's Dub version. I wonder why. No space? Mmm.... This album used to an LP, but then, in this Re-issue from Ras Records it would have been a nice bonus as a CD can contain much more music then the 36 and a half minutes it lasts now. Clearly a missed change. As the title already indicates, we are talking here about an album recorded during the times in which Gregory Isaacs was a rising star. The "Cool Ruler", as the nickname of the master of the Lovers' Rock genre is called, as he rides over riddims created by Sly and Robbie's own Taxi Gang. Super-tight Roots and Culture tracks as well as some slick Lover's tunes.

The album starts of with a nice version of "Soon Forward", riding on the One Drop rhythm. Gregory's voice reaching the higher regions without problem and the Dub is, eerrr...., cool. The second track (You'll Never Know) is more energetic, as the Steppers Drum are introduced and some chord changes improve the very melodic vibe. Excessive use of Bell Percussion adds to this vibe. It could have been a little less, but then, the song isn't very long too. Track number three is a Roots and Culture song called "Motherless Children": a biblical commandment to take good care of those in need on a tight Roots Reggae rhythm. Roots and Culture is not over with only this track, cause the next song is "Slave Driver", a heartical cry to remember that injustices and wickedness will not last forever. What babylon has done to the slaves will come back at their own head. This track has become a true Reggae Classic, and many artists have recorded or performed their own version of it. Gregory's rendering is not the least of them. After this, Gregory goes back into Lovers' Rock with "Mistake", an upfull tune with some nice conga works in the mix and a dub which is way too short. Not the strongest track on the album. The one after is way and way much stronger: "Going Downtown" is a strong track about Reggae Music as freeing up the minds of people because it gives strength for those who suffer. Hear Gregory singing about the things that were done in the past and how he is not going to allow babylon to push it onto him too. The CD closes of with "I'm Coming Home". As soon as you hear the first lines, you hear that this track comes from totally different sessions than the other tunes. The track is dubby, mellow and low: chill out.

The Dubs on the album aren't really heavy, or excessively psychedelic. And many of them are not of the same length as the vocals. I've heard better dubs from Sly and Robbie and so when I listen to the riddims, I am a bit disappointed. The riddims are good and simply ask for a treat by such as Prince Jammy. The bassguitar is professionally mixed to a prominent position. I would still recommend this album to those who are interested in Reggae's history, as this album features the voice of Gregory during the time in which he was an upcoming star as well as the tight rhythm twins: Sly and Robbie. No essential addition to your collection, but also not a mis-buy.

Various - Dub Massive

Various - Dub Massive
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




I would recommend this album to a particular groups of people: namely those who are getting into Dub music because of contemporary artists. Why? Because DUB MASSIVE 1 features the "Godfathers" of DUB Music. Scientist, Tubby's, Jammy's, the Mad Professor, Jah Thomas, Augustus Pablo and more. A historical introduction to this great style of music that has influenced contemporary music in such a way that, if Dub would never have existed, the music of today would sound totally different. Introducing the Dub Massive in a Massive Dub Set of twenty deadly Roots Reggae Riddims, skilfully mixed by the very ones who were there when the music came to existence. But it is an introduction with a footnote. When I take a look at the selection, I see mainly 1970's Roots Reggae tracks. Perhaps a missed chance for the selector, because it could give the impression to the listener, that DUB is only a music of the past. Especially, because the Mad Professor tracks on DUB MASSIVE are kind of special too, definitely not in the usual UK Vibe. And all this limits the music to a certain era without a specific note.

A good introduction to Dub indeed, but: a historical one. Nuff said. Play the riddims, yah!

Jim Fox - Dub For Daze 1

Jim Fox - Dub For Daze 1
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




When you go to MP3.com you'll find many of the more serious Reggae artists in the USA have been connected with JIM FOX of the Lion and Fox Studios. These artists have a lot of reasons to choose Mr. Fox, as he is a very skilful producer and recording engineer and has made numerous albums for an all-star posse such as Israel Vibration, Culture, Christafari, and Peter Broggs. "The Dubs I do, they are basically a live performance be me working the board.", he says. "They are almost always done in one take. So, no one really decides what to do, including me. I just set to do the mix, and when the time comes, I roll the tape, mix it one time. It becomes a performance which is controlled by the music itself. The board and the song, call out the next move. I became the instrument of DUB." Releases by Jim Fox have a distinguished sound. You can absolutely recognize it. Maximum care and skilful use of professional digital equipment make the recordings always very fresh and clean. Many Jamaican artist are attracted to this sound.

"Time for a monument," must have been the thought in the head of DR. DREAD from RAS RECORDS. This renown producer, who even managed to get Israel Vibration back together for their superb album "Strength Of My Life" asked Jim Fox to dig into his archives and vaults to come up with an extensive collection of DUBS from the Fox.

And so it went.

Jim turned to his archives, and browsed through the names of singers and players of instruments who have visited his studio's. A very huge archive, given the fact that DUB FOR DAZE VOLUME ONE is in fact a double CD with over 140 minutes of music in total.

Most tracks are straight on Rub a Dub and Roots Reggae tracks, you will also find dancehall-ish tracks. And in general, the dubs on DUB FOR DAZE have a wilder and heavier vibe than what I heard from Mr Fox thus far. Where I would normally advice to hear the vocal track along with the dubs when it comes to experiencing his mixing to the fullness, I refrain from this advice when it comes to DUB FOR DAZE. This album features the works of Jim Fox just as much as the all star line of appearance on it and I sincerely wonder why the tracks have not been released before as Dub companions of their released Vocal counterparts as they are definitely beyond the average DUBs from Jim Fox.

Israel Vibration - Dub Vibration

Israel Vibration - Dub Vibration
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




In their original line-up (Skelly, Wiss and Apple), the vocal harmony group ISRAEL VIBRATION was arguably one of the most spiritual in Reggae Music. In the time this review is written (September 2002), unfortunately the group is no longer threegether. Born and raised in Jamaica under terrible circumstances, suffering from polio, the Idren definitely know sufferation. They joined the Rastafarian organization "Twelve Tribes Of Israel" whose leader Vernon Carrington aka The Prophet Gad is said to have formed Israel Vibration as a harmony group. I've had the pleasure to see them in concert a few times and every time it was a big experience to me. The Roots Radics, one of the best backing bands in Reggae Music, were playing a tight roots/rub a dub style and the three singers themselves were simply unforgettable impressive. Especially in their earlier works, this same vibe has been layed down on several vocal albums.

DUB VIBRATION, along with ISRAEL DUB, contains the Dub versions from these early vocal albums. On this collection you'll find the remixes from STRENGTH OF MY LIFE and PRAISES and you'll definitely get value for your money, as the CD is over 70 minutes long. Sixteen tracks of early Israel Vibration in their original line-up of Skelly, Wiss and Apple, all mixed in Dub style by Jim Fox.

When you're looking for spaced out Dub, you will be a bit disappointed with this album, I think. Jim Fox usually performs his Dubs in such a way that he emphasizes certain parts in music and texts instead of his mixing. Therefore, I think that when you also have the vocal tracks, you will be able to apprecilove the Dubs a little more. Just a little, because this album also stands on it's own as a Dubwise experience.

Aggrovators - Instrumental Reggae

Aggrovators - Instrumental Reggae
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




The Aggrovators was the name given to one of the first CHANNEL ONE (Not to be mistaken by STUDIO ONE) studio bands. It is within the Aggrovators, that legendary Reggae Drummer Sly Dunbar developed the "Steppers" Rhythm, with a bassdrum hit on every count. As the title already indicates, "Instrumental Reggae" is not just another Dub Album by the Aggrovators. And although the music is mixed in Dub style, it features the band's horn section just as much as it features the Rhythm Section. And that makes the album kind of special. It's not "instrumental reggae" in the sense that it's just the tracks without the vocals, because on most tracks there is some dub mixing going on. Not too wild, not too heavy, but to emphasize the music itself.

The drum and basslines are all solid, each and every one of them. The horns play skilfully on top of it. Some tracks contain beautiful themes, played powerfully by the whole horn section ("Rocking Jamboree" is a good example of that), where others contain complete saxophone solo's.

Automatically, when listening to "Instrumental Reggae", jazz comes to my mind. Much of the solo's contain Jazzy vibes. But where the solo's are played on Solid Rockers by the Aggrovators, who practically invented the Reggae Genre, it gives a much more powerful vibe.

All in all, I would recommend this album to everyone who like Reggae horns and Dub. It might be not mixed to the fullness, but the solidness of the Aggrovators make that up, and the subtle dub really forms a perfect foundation for the Hornsmen: Tommy Mc Cook and Bobby Ellis. Plus, the fact that the music on the disc lasts well over an hour and can be seen as "packed full" will definitely be another argument to buy the album.

Linvall Thompson & Scientist - Phoenix Dub

Linvall Thompson & Scientist - Phoenix Dub
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




Kingston, Jamaica, in the time that many regard as the Golden Age of Reggae. Channel One Studio's. The Roots Radics. Who knows their Dubs shall surely think of the legendary Greensleeves Series, in which Dub Mixer THE SCIENTIST transformed quite a few riddims into spaced out material, which was then released on thematic albums with titles such as "Scientist encounters Pacman" or "Scientists meets the Space Invaders". "We was the ones that made Scientist, me and Junjo - it wasn't nobody else.", I read Linvall Thompson saying in the liner notes of Phoenix Dub. Linvall surely isn't unknown within circles of Reggae Connoisseurs. There are numerous tracks and albums that have him as producer or singer. He was one of the main forces in Jamaican Reggae Music for a long time. His album "I Love Marijuana" has reached legendary status in some circles. Phoenix Dub re-introduces Linvall a new Dub and Reggae massive, in an album that could be described as a missing chapter in the Greensleeves Series I wrote about earlier, be it not that it goes a little further than that.

The album is a re-release by UK based MOTION RECORDS, packed with 14 quality riddims. Almost all tracks are mixed by The Scientist, and a few by King Tubby and Prince Jammy. This alone will make Phoenix Dub go beyond the Greensleeves Series. Many (Scientist) Dubs are mixed in exactly the same style, but Tubby and Jammy each add a different angle to the work. A true all-star list of legendary Godfathers of Dub Mixing! And not only the Dubbing engineers are great, who can beat the riddims played by original Jamaican Studio bands such as the Revolutionaries and the Roots Radics? For an album centred around the person of Linvall Thompson, it really shows the versatility of this singer/producer from Kingston, Jamaica.

Great music, great musicians, great liner notes from the author of the Lee Perry Biography "People Funny Boy" including an interview with Linvall, and everything mixed by the Jamaican originators of Dub. I would strongly recommend this album to each and everyone with a heart that beats on the rhythm of the drum and the bass that make Roots Reggae.

Twilight Circus - Dub Plates 3

Twilight Circus - Dub Plates 3
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




"Eleven Heavy Duty Floorshakers", warns the press-release that accompanied this album by the mighty Twilight Circus Dub Sound System. True to the fullness, I say. Multi-Instrumentalist Ryan Moore gathered tracks previously played stricktly on Sound Systems (Reggae Mobile Discotheques With MC's), had them re-mastered and put on CD for ordinary people like you and me, who can't experience a Sound System every weekend. Now we can our shake own floors too and I know I will. Many articles about Dub Mixing talk about "lo-fi" elements creating special atmospheres. A tape-echo, for example, is actually a recording of a recording of a recording et cetera. Needless to say that this distorts the sound of the echo. This is called "lo-fi" or simply "dirty sounds". Twilight Circus has a special sound that utilizes this principal in many different ways, as the album shows. His wild Dub effects, most of which comes from old skool equipment, show that Ryan Moore is an expert when it comes to showing the beauty of dirt.

Although I like the opening track the most, each and everyone of the eleven floorshakers (cause that's what they really ARE) stand on their own as a demonstration of the versatility of Ryan Moore's musical talents. All tracks are very intense, most of them are highly danceable but equally interesting for spacing out. It can be a very nice experience to try and follow the effects as they change the sound of many different instruments: welcome to Dubnology!

Well, I was warned, at least. The emergency bells are ringing, I hear police sirens coming at my direction and many neighbours with disturbed faces. I didn't warn them.... But I'm warning you: this album is one of the better works of contemporary DUB art released in 2002 and when you love DUBWISE you I specially recommend this album.

Various - Roots Of Dub Funk 2

Various - Roots Of Dub Funk 2
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




UK based label TANTY RECORDS comes with another document of the current runnings in the Dub scene. Tanty, home of the Dub Funk Association, puts a lot of emphasis on electronic Dub. Their first episode in the "Roots Of Dub Funk" series contained many highly experimental tracks in a genre that could not all appeal to many Reggae fans. Volume two seems to go into a more stable direction with the introduction of much more Reggae vibes and I applaud this direction, ofcourse.

First a little track-by-track description. The album opens up with a powerful riddim from the Interuptor, with some nice clavinet effects. Followed is DUBCLASH, an MP3.com artist, with a deep bass rhythm. I-sonic Institute contributed the third track, using weird electronica to create an eastern environment. Next: Heavy UK Dubheads Vibronics with a spacious Dub in the typical UK Dub vibe. And from UK the way goes all down to down under, to Australia, where MP3.com artist THE TECHNICIAN releases his typical Dubs of which extreme long reverbs form the most audible ingredient. The 6th track on the album is called Try Harder Dub, by MP3.com artist MUNKY LEE. A cool, laid back version, using a little synthesizer over a typical roots reggae rhythm. Followed is Finn the Giant, in again a cool and laid back track that couldn't really move me. The next track on Dub Funk 2 comes from Dubital, and can best be described as Reggae Steppers created with electronica. Nice vocoding effect on the vocals. One of my favourites on this album is SOLOMON JABBY's Youth Revolution Dub, an upright rub a dub reggae rhythm, everything dubbed and played with stricktly old skool equipment. Alpha and Omega are up next with a very intense Dub mix of their Contention riddim. It's good to see, that also the Dutch Dub Chemist DUBCREATOR has also found his way on the Roots of Dub Funk series with a typical DC DUB track featuring the voice of Ras Milo. The 12th title of the album comes from MP3.com Dubbers DUBFARM. Listen to a great Roots track called Jah Witness, using the same effect on the bass as Aswad's track Dub Fire and some samples from the movie Rockers. DUB ADDXX are also present on the album with a mellow Dub Reggae Rock track called Gun Ina Dub. And closing this CD was reserved for Faya Dub: Indian tabla's, nicely placed effects, eastern style fluting, bells, but still within the realms of DUB.

All in all, I think that Roots of Dub Funk 2 is a better collection then the first chapter. there is more bands on the CD with their feet strongly rooted in reggae, which is a must for creating good Dub in my perception. Where else can you find a solid drum and bassline that also tells a story? I also like the song order, the track in general getting more into roots each time. The multitude of artists are also online artist, many of them have been featured on the Dubroom. This makes the album also an interesting one. The Roots Of Dub funk series could become an objective report of the current runnings in (online) the Dub Scene, when this growing quality of choice continues!

Messian Dread - Dubroom Archives 2

Messian Dread - Dubroom Archives 2
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




This is the 2nd Dubroom Archive, several tracks from the years 1997-2001.

It contains a "lost track", that wasn't around for some years (Flee Out Of Her My People), several songs from the MESSENJAH DUB era that didn't make it on that album, a re-mix, some collaboration projects, some new tracks (Heroin Version, No Worry Your Mind) and an upfull track called Standing On Solid Rock. Bass on Jah Glory and Bass Amp is played by Vicious Vic, keyboards on Bass Amp were performed by Sure Dread, who also recorded the music on Enters the Dubroom.

Gussie Clarke - Black Foundation Dub

Gussie Clarke - Black Foundation Dub
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




Most of the time, when you buy an album, the record is credited to the artist. This doesn't necessarily have to be the case in Reggae Music, where the name of the engineer (Dub mixer) makes a regular appearance. But also the producer's name sometimes is printed on the cover. Black Foundation Dub is such an album. It gives you an indication of the influence that a producer can have on the music that he produces. Sometimes being a producer simply means to pay for the project, but not so in the case of Gussie Clarke and this album proves it. Clarke has produced many of the really big names in reggae: I Roy, Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown, Augustus Pablo, to name but four. He's been in the music runnings since the late 1960's, when he started to produce tunes for sound systems. You can find some stories in the liner notes, like the one in which Gussie tells us how he swapped the music rights of a Delroy Wilson tune for an amplifier. This illustrates very much the unique Culture in which albums like Black Foundation Dub have come to exist.

With the Barret Brothers (Bob Marley and the Wailers) on drum and bass on most tracks, a very solid foundation is layed down for the joyous Gussie Clarke sound as found on this album. If I had only one word to describe the vibe, it would be the word "joyful". Where DUB can be very intense, even haunting, not much of this is found on Black Foundation Dub. Instead of heavy dub, you'll get a more subtle variation of this Reggae Re-mix genre.

Gussie has participated a little in the mixing of Black Foundation, but he left most of the dubbing to King Tubby and Phillip Smart (Tappa Zukie In Dub). Because, as he says in the Liner Notes, he regarded himself only a student in this discipline. But that doesn't mean, that he had no big influence in the sound. The vibe on the album is much to consistent for that.

Black Foundation Dub was originally released on vinyl in the 1970's. There were only a limited number of copies, so give thanks to MOTION RECORDS for re-releasing it. The CD comes with three bonus tracks, the vinyl version with two. One of them is a special extended mix from an Augustus Pablo track called "No Entry".

King Tubby - Legendary Skatalites In Dub

King Tubby - Legendary Skatalites In Dub
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




DUB music has become an influencial stream within contemporary music. Driving drums and deep bass lines playing a (Reggae) rhythm, mystically accompanied by other instruments popping in and out while effects are applied excessively. It's a kind of music, that stands strong throughout many decades. Music like that must be accompanied by many legends, and so it is. According to one of these legends, it was King Tubby who first discovered this powerful vibe called DUB. The story goes that Tubby was getting his four-track recorder ready for a mixing session, playing the drums and bass channels. When he wanted to add the other instruments, he had, by accident, a lot of echo on that channel. Can you say "Eureka"? I don't know how much is true from this legend, but I can remember when I first heard this effect: I felt my stomache turn upside down, a feeling you usually get when you fall in love.

Talking about legends, this MOTION RECORDS release contains 15 tracks, skilfully mixed by the legendary master of DUB. King Tubby is definitely legendary and so are the Skatalites. As you might know, Ska is a predecessor of reggae music and the Skatalites were a major force in this genre during the 1960's. But they also know their way in the much slower Reggae Rhythm, as this album proves. It's Reggae Music, played with the energy and instruments so characteristic for Ska. Heavenly Horns. Authentic Rasta Nyabinghi drummings by legends like Ras Michael. And the list doesn't stop there.

The Legendary Skatalites in Dub is a valuable historical document and the result of a true labour of love. It comes with beautiful Cover Art and some very informative Liner Notes. The notes start with a quote from Skatalites' Bass Player Lloyd Brevett: "All my bass lines are original - 100% original. I don't know how to follow somebody". A remarkable detail is that the bass lines are all played on an upright bass. The sound is warm and deep and when you play this album at the right volume it will definitely "check down your spinal colom", to quote Linton Kwesie Johnson.

All the 15 tracks come from sessions played in the year 1975, a time in which digital studio's didn't exist. Everything was recorded and mixed on equipment that is now considered inferior. But that doesn't mean that the music is inferior, actually quite the opposite is true. This is King Tubby at his best, fe true! Every single tracks has it's own atmosphere, varying from upfull and skanky tunes to deep psychedelic Dub vibes, the ones that so many people immitate until this day.

I Highly recommend this album to all lovers of true Roots Reggae. It's the result of a true labor of love and worth every cent. The album is available directly from Motion Records and the better Record Stores.

Inner Circle, Prince Jammy, Ernest Hoo Kim - Heavyweight Dub/Killer Dub

Inner Circle, Prince Jammy, Ernest Hoo Kim - Heavyweight Dub/Killer Dub
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




When you hear "Inner Circle", changes are that you think of highly commercial reggae, such as their theme song "Bad Boys" which they made for a television program. Others will remember this band from their days with singer Jacob Miller, who unfortunately died much too early in a car accident. Few will remember them for their really killer dubwise albums. And that is really a shame, because this is a Heavyweight Killer Dub album that you'll bound to remember even after hearing it once. So much respect is due to Blood And Fire, for re-releasing another great CD! Heavyweight Dub and Killer Dub were both originally released in 1978. One LP (as they were called back then) was mixed by the mighty Prince Jammy in King Tubby's studio's (Killer), the other one by Maximillian, a reasonably unknown engineer at Channel One Studio's. Further, there's an all star list of musicians who participated in this set of tracks.

It sure is heavyweight, and it sure is a killer! There are many really hard rocking steppers rhythms on this 19 track set, some dubs from well known tracks such as well, and everything is mixed very well too, I can't or won't say different. This is the kind of album that you play when someone asks you what's so special about all this "old skool" material. The riddims are very interesting to listen to, the mixes are intense, and the psychedelic sounds that make Dub what it is, are created the way they should be: by adding effects to instruments.

Although the two albums are mixed by different engineers in different studio's, they match each other perfectly. If I had to choose between them, I would favor the first album (Heavyweight Dub, by Maximillian), because it's mixed much more psychedelically. But really the choice is almost impossible. To have both albums on one CD makes the choice unnecessary anyway.

Doesn't this CD have any negative points? Yes, it does. The lack of vocals is a thing that really bothers me. Only in the last track can you hear some vocals. A little more snippets of Jacob "Killer" Miller's vocals would have been a welcome addition to this set. But perhaps it would then become "too heavyweight", and that's another CD.

Israel Vibration - Israel Dub

Israel Vibration - Israel Dub
DUBROOM ALBUM REVIEW




When the CD was introduced, many albums were re-released on this new format.

Because a Compact Disc can contain more then vinyl, a lot of time you had the opportunity of buying two albums on one disc, a thing that doesn't happen so much anymore. This album is sort of the same.

It contains eighteen Tracks, over one hour, of stricktly Dubwise Style! In fact, Israel Dub contains the Dub versions from what could be considered the two best albums created by Israel Vibration: their debut album "Same Song", and their second, "Unconquered People", played by the Wailers.

Israel Vibration, a vocal harmony trio from Jamaica, are able to put a very special sound on tape. Their voices have touched the hearts of many. Seeing them live was a very special experience for me too. It is said, that Gadman, the leader of the 12 Tribes of Israel, was involved in the production of "Same Song".

The Vibes have been known members of this organization for a very long time. Unfortunately they are not together anymore at the moment I am writing this (February 2002), but this is just another reason to treasure the recordings that they've made threegether. And, as said before, some great recordings are being dubbed on this album.

The first half is reserved for the Dubs of their debut album the Same Song, originally released in 1978. All ten tracks re-call the original vibe of the vocal album. They are a welcome addition to it! The vocals are mixed in and out on very "strategic points", and giving you enough to meditate over, especially when you know the original album. But even if you don't, you will be able to catch the vibe still. And it's a crucial vibe, which can only be established when you have an all star session band backing up some very talented singers.

When track 11 starts, you'll instantly know that the time has come to listen to the Dubs from Unconquered People. Where the dubs from Same Song recalled the atmosphere on the vocal album, "Unconquered" is different and really stands on it's own as a dub album. Originally released in 1980, it's quite interesting to hear digital sounds in the music and in the mix, a thing completely absent in the 1978 recording of Same Song. The band is also different, as said before, this is music played by the Wailers. You can hear Carlton Barrett's famous One Drop in a dubwise style. Unfortunately, Israel Dub doesn't contain the Dubs from all tracks of the vocal album. And it's also not dubbed so psychedelically as the first half. "Survival Dub", for example, contains a saxophone solo that goes on throughout the whole song. But that is not a disadvantage in my view, it just shows the versatility of DUB.

Summarized, Israel Dub is well worth it's money: there are nuff different vibes, the CD is really packed to the max with almost 70 minutes of music. It captures the special sound of Israel Vibration and adds the Dub Vibe on top of it.