Its always a joy to review a new reggae compilation, just when you think you’ve heard it all, the bottomless pit of reggae is mined yet again, and more gems are unearthed, and while there is always a few tracks that are familiar, there’s plenty more to lift the spirits.
BBE have proved they are up the top of the reissue ladder, sharing the glory with other market leaders like Soul Jazz and Soundway, continuously releasing quality compilations in varying genres, utilising expertise from respected selectors, with this release enlisting David Rodigan.
Real Authentic Reggae lays down 20 great tracks, Jackie Edwards, Gregory Isaacs, Leo Hall, Chakademus & Pliers, Augustus Pablo, Fred Locks, Brent Dowe, Luciano, Chezidek, Johnny Clark, Cornel Campbell, The Melodians, Jimmy London, Simplicity People, Delroy Wilson, Wayne Wade, Junior Kelly, Macka B, Sugar Minott, and The Viceroys, not looking too far back this time, but retaining the authentic thread of straight up reggae, that sound like they could have been released anytime in the last four decades. Compilations such as this provide the perfect jumping off point for the uninitiated, subsequently giving the eager listener 20 new opportunities to investigate the genre more deeply. This is so essential, especially for genres such as reggae, where the task of immersing yourself in discovering new music is often a daunting one, with such a prolific musical history. Class all the way.
Wayne Stronell
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