Search - Dillinger :: Cocaine in My Brain

A Knife, A Fork, A Bottle and a Cork

Michael Sean | Seattle, WA - US | 02/02/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The Jamaican deejay practice of toasting (chanting rhymes over records they spun at sound system dances) was the precursor of modern day rapping in Hip-Hop. Pioneered by the legendary U Roy, toasting produced a number of famous names such as I Roy, Big Youth, and Dennis Alcapone. Dillinger started out under the moniker of Alcapone Junior, in tribute to his hero, before Lee Perry suggested a name change and helped him develop his own style. He put out a string of various releases and eventually saw international success. This Trojan collection is built around Dillinger's "Cocaine" album from 1983, easily his most consistent release in a terribly erratic career. Along with the classic title track, there's the follow-up hit "Marijuana In My Brain," and the irresistable "Funkey Punk" and "Crab In My Pants." All of the songs from the original LP are here, appended with 11 earlier Lee Perry produced tracks from the '70s. He never quite reached the status of his heroes, but Dillinger was able to produce some memorable moments and added his distinctive style and wit to the tradition. This CD is a superb example of the man's better work and is a great introduction to his style. After enjoying this disc you may want to seek out his "Talking Blues" album from 1977."