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Roots of Reggae, Vol. 1: Ska

James Trent | San Diego, CA | 07/27/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Roots of Reggae is a sure-fire dance party record! many of these scorching Ska tracks are rarities and were not widely released in America. the track "Rude, Rude, Rudie" is a shining example of Instrumental Ska, the rhythm section swinging that pulsing Ska beat and some prime toasting over the top to boot. "We two happy people" is a wonderful example of early Ska vocals, with Stranger and Patsy producing a wonderful blend while the band chugs on. Every track is on Roots of Reggae is a milestone in Ska history, making it a record every music lover should pick up. As Dennis Alcapone says, "Rent a tile, stay for awhile". Do that with Roots of Reggae, and enjoy. -James Trent"

Oldschool reggae fans rejoice

Andre M. | Mt. Pleasant, SC United States | 11/29/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is "taking it back to the old school" here. These songs from reggae's Ska era are quite vibrant and enjoyable. Laurel Aitken's "Judgement Day" was one of the earliest indigenous Jamaican hits which was quite controversial due to it's somewhat rasta-oriented lyrics. "Chubby" is of historical interest as it features genuine Rasta-style drumming in one of it's earliest-known recordings. The lovely "Oil in My Lamp" is actually an old Jamiacan revival tune souped-up for sound-system dances. But the real "scorcher" is the Maytals jump-up classic "Jamaica Ska"(also variously known as "Dog War" and "Broadway Jungle"). Something is WRONG with you if you can sit still while listening to this tune in particular. A few clinkers are in the mix, but overall, this is a worthwhile purchase. Much of it represents the optimism of the early days of Jamaican independence."