Search - Dennis Brown :: Ultimate Collection

An 18-song, single-disc collection merely scratches the surface when it comes to the work of one of Jamaica's most prolific and popular artists. On the other hand, it's a perfect way to introduce yourself to reggae's jack-of-all-trades, a man who was equally comfortable with love songs, social commentary, and Rastafarian chants, deep dub and polished pop. Brown's music is characterized by his dulcet, easy-flowing vocals, roughed up with just a hint of a rasp. He may have lacked the visceral energy of a Toots Hibbert or the sting of a Peter Tosh, but that's exactly what defined the "Crown Prince of Reggae": he greatly favored peace, love, and understanding over anger, bitterness, and force. Though not arranged chronologically, this set offers stellar mid-1970s Observer singles--produced by Niney the Observer--such as the propulsive "Westbound Train" and the gently moving "Wolf & Leopards" (mixed by Lee "Scratch" Perry), which finds him at his most socially aware. Brown's Joe Gibbs-produced commercial peak of the late 1970s and early 1980s is well represented, highlighted by the bittersweet hit "Money in My Pocket," though the Sly & Robbie-produced cuts from the mid-1980s mark a bit of a decline. Still, the best moments here also represent some of the best moments in reggae, reminding us how much the late Dennis Brown will be missed. --Marc Greilsamer