Studio One Showcase

Clement Dodd (1932-2004), founder of Studio One, pioneer of the Kingston sound systems, master producer and talent scout, recorded more great Jamaican music than any other producer. As the 1970s got underway he embraced the new recording technology available and began cutting reggae tunes that emphasised slower, heavier rhythms and embraced the new DJ culture. This excellent compilation features 18 tunes cut at Studio One in the 1970s. Both Dodd and Jamaican music are at their best here: veterans from the 1960s, Horace Andy and The Wailing Souls, are in very rich voice; while newcomers Sugar Minott and The Gladiators are masters of sweet Jamaican soul. DJs such as Prince Jazzbo and Dillinger demonstrate the new style of chatting on the mic that would prove so influential internationally.

Among the many standout tunes here are Judah Eskender Tafari's ‘Just Another Day’ and Michigan & Smiley's ‘Time to be Happy’. This compilation is full of surprises, with compiler Stuart Baker doing his best to ensure great music gets heard. Reggae collectors would pay plenty for the original 45s so we should all be thankful that Soul Jazz is licensing such treasure.