(5 / 5)
This is the perfect soundtrack to the summer; but sadly, we did not really get one in 2017, and this cracking collection has arrived as Autumn is on its way. So, here’s wishing for a late burst of sunshine to accompany this sparkling compilation.
The first ever re-issue of one of the most sought after and collectible reggae albums of the late 1960s, and the classic “boss” reggae era. Showcasing a dozen of Sonia Pottinger’s most popular late rock steady and early reggae productions, presented here for the first time on CD.
We get the original dozen cuts, plus 13 bonus tracks from the period. The single disc set, features some of the biggest Jamaican hits of the late 1960s, and many tracks new to CD. Originally released by Trojan Records early in 1969, “Dancing Down Orange Street”, is today widely regarded as one of the finest reggae albums from that era.
Artists featured are Delano Stewart, Ken Boothe, The Melodians, The Soul Rhythms, The Conquerors, The Afrotones, Delroy Wilson, Patsy and The Beltones. Delano Stewart gets five cuts, including “Rocking Sensation” and “Dance With Me”. He pops up again on the duet with Patsy, “Give Me A Chance”.
Ken Booth features three times, on “Somewhere”, “Lady With The Starlight” and “Live Good”. The Melodians have two tracks, three for The Soul Rhythms and The Conquerors. The triple Delroy Wilson cuts are a standout for me; “I’m The One Who Loves You”, “It Hurts (I’ve Been Hurt)” and “Put Yourself In My Place”.
Two from The Beltones and one each from The Afrotones and Patsy, the latter also gets the duet with Delano Stewart. So, 25 tracks in total, including the 13 bonus cuts, and of the 25 there are two instrimentals.
I cannot find one filler cut among this collection. A reminder of some great artists, and introducing a couple of artists new to me, whetting my appetite to dig out more from them and most featured here.
By Simon Redley
(1 / 5) ‘Dull Zone’
(2 / 5) ‘OK Zone’
(3 / 5) ‘Decent Zone’
(4 / 5) ‘Super Zone’ (5 / 5) ‘Awesome Zone’
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