As I continue to catchup on albums that have spent entirely too my time on my "to review" shelf, this time around I feature three 2001 releases fro three US-based independent labels.
Various Artists: Riddim Ryders Vol. 1 (JamDown, 2001)
JamDown made a move to rule dancehall in the early part of the decade with their copious compilations and Riddim Ryders Vol. 1 was yet another in the seemingly never-ending collection of party-themed club anthems. Nothing terribly innovative, but it certainly made its mark. Among the better tracks on this compilation are Bling Dog's "Cut and Go Through" (yes, I'm as surprised as you) whose hook is based on "I Can See Clearly" and Silver Cat's growly "Hold Her Space (Simma)." By far, though, the best track is George Nooks' duet with Anthony B titled "Joy." It's amazing that deejays that focus on bland party lyrics or overdone sex themes still manage to get more attention than positive deejays like Anthony B and Capleton who are not only more talented, but more relevant. Other tight tracks that don't focus on slackness come courtesy of Pinchers and Jimmy Riley. Three riddims are represented here, the "Anaconda" riddim, the "Da Groove" riddim, and the "Uprising" riddim. "Uprising" is clearly the best of the bunch.
A bonus mega-mix CD is included that gives a nice continuous-blend of the tracks by riddim.
Frankie Paul: Remember the Time (Artists Only!, 2001)
It's hard to go wrong with Frankie Paul. He's a consistantly strong artists whose voice never seems to falter. Remember the Time is yet another entry in the massive discography of Mr. Paul and is quite an entertaining one at that. Standouts include "Time A Get Red," a light bubbler with a roots vibe and the similarly rootsy "Poor Man Feel It." Some of the lover's rock tracks like "I Really Think of You" are a bit soft and touchy-feely for my tastes, but they're relatively harmless and provide good background listening. Production is courtesy of the McLeods and provides a nice, simple backdrop for Paul's vocals.
Sugar Minott: Rare Gems (Easy Star, rec. 1979-1986, rel. 2001)
There's no doubt about Sugar Minott's contribution to reggae over the years, from his outstanding work with the African Brothers in the 1970s to his Youth Promotion and Black Roots labels to his more recent teaming with Easy Star. His voice is sweet, he has an ear for rootsy production, and he's a great songwriter, and all that becomes readily apparent on Rare Gems, a collection of recordings from 1979-1986 that range from lover's rock ("Tears You Cry") to roots ("Mr. Fisherman") to straight DJ toasting ("Chant," a heavy, slow-dragging riddim backs Minott as he chats away). Other highlights include "Can't Take No Fight," "It Was Good, It Was Bad," and "King of Kings." Consider this one, in all its earthy rootsness, essential.
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