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The Mighty Two, Joe Gibbs and engineer Errol Thompson are mavericks of the Jamaican music scene, almost criminally under-appreciated except by reggae heads, Gibbs produced many classics on his own group of labels including Amalgamated, Pressure Beat & Shock. This latest compilation from UK re-issue specialists Soul Jazz is for that reason alone very welcome indeed. Put together with love and understanding, 'Joe Gibbs: Productions' brings together a wide range of Gibbs different work, everything from his brilliant African Dub series through to more pop orientated material from the likes of Dennis Brown. Check the bass on Chapter 3 from Gibbs & the Professionals, surely one the finest slices of dub youll hear, or roots classics from Culture and the Mighty Diamonds - Two Sevens Clash & Identity respectively. Other highlights include the early dancehall classic Dreader Mafia from Snuffy & Wally and Bigger Ts Million Dollar Plan, a late night classic for smoky rooms. This is music that demands attention, full of great rhythm and exceptional instrumentation, almost every song is a rarity deserving a wider audience, and in a market over populated with supposedly essential reggae, its nice to find something thats fresh and rewarding. Recommended. |
