Daptone goes Reggae!
Leon Dinero returns with "One Way Love", another magical rendition from
the James Hunter catalogue. Dinero, along with the Inversions and
produced by Victor Axelrod, transforms the uptempo R&B classic into a
rocksteady mover whose relaxed groove and soulful vocal give the track
an authenticity that may have folks scratching their head as to which
version came first. A testament to the incomparable songwriting savvy of
Mr Hunter, "One Way Love" is a track that defies the constraints of
genre labelling with unfettered elegance and lyrical prowess.
Daptone goes Reggae
While far from a household name in reggae, Judah Eskender Tafari
cultivated a loyal fanbase and respectable catalogue during his
recording career. The Studio One single, "Rastafari Tell You" sits at
the top of a small set of deep cuts he recorded for Coxson Dodd's famed
studio starting in 1978. These have continued to find a place at roots
reggae sound systems and DJ rub-a-dub parties after nearly five decades.
The earnest lyrics and spiritual mission of these early recordings
would define Judah's entire career, extending through the decades to
"Great Escape", a new Daptone 45 produced by label stalwart Victor
Axelrod. The song alludes to the Old Testament in a vision of mankind
gone astray, trying to escape the confines of Earth for salvation.
Axelrod provides a lush roots backdrop against which Eskender shines in a
way we haven't heard in years.
The reissue of Annette Clarke's 'Sinner Man,' produced by the legendary
Lee Perry, is a gem for Reggae enthusiasts and vinyl collectors.
Released on Harlem Shuffle Records, this 7" vinyl brings back the
sought-after 1973 track that seamlessly blends Reggae with a touch of Ska, adding an extra layer of allure for fans of the genre. Side 1
features the original 'Sinner Man,' a track from Early Reggae days while
hinting at the infectious energy of Ska. Clarke's vocals are
compelling and Perry's production gives the song a timeless quality. On
Side 2, the Lee Perry dub version takes the track to another dimension.
With heavy echo effects and the rhythm pushed into the background,
Perry's dub creates an immersive experience that highlights his genius
as a producer.
This is the very first reissue of the much in demand double sided killer
single released in 1970 on the Upsetter label. Both tracks were
produced by Lee Perry. The A side is a beautiful yet wicked cover of 'Let It Be' by the Beatles, produced by Lee Perry and performed by the
Soulettes. The B side is 'Big Dog Bloxie', an even wackier version of the A
side by Lee Perry!