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Bringing together the original cuts of classic tracks such as "Skylarking" and Dawn Penn's instantly recognizable "No, No, No,"
Studio One Rockers showcases not only the talents of influential artists that were to become synonymous with reggae but also the styles, sounds, and, above all, rhythms that were to dominate Kingston studios into the 1970s and beyond. There are a number of rock-steady classics (hence the name), with tracks like Hammond-Organ maestro
Jackie Mittoo's "Hot Milk" and the legendary
Marcia Griffiths's "Feel Like Jumping" highlighting the then-dramatic change in style away from the faster beats of ska towards heavy, bass-led tracks with a much slower tempo. But
Studio One Rockers is not restricted to this. The semi-instrumental track "Phoenix City" pounds along at a breakneck pace with trumpets belting and, along with "Greedy G," shows the importance a faster beat, a funky take, or a big-band sound also had within the Studio One fold. There are tracks from DJs like
Lone Ranger with his "Badder Dan Dem" vocal rhythms and dancehall sounds. Roots artists include one of its biggest stars, Horace Andy, whose then unique falsetto was later emulated by many looking for a similar pop success. Then a preteen, reggae star Freddy McGregor also appears on "Bobby Babylon." Freddy, like many of the artists here, was to produce some of his best work under the watchful eye of Studio One's equally famous producer--Clement "Coxsone" Dodd. In many ways a tribute to Coxsone's production skills and rhythms that continue to be rediscovered and recut,
Studio One Rockers is essential listening for anyone with even a passing interest in Jamaican music.
--Caroline Butler
Product Description
An incredible compilation of artists and styles from the Studio One label - the most important label in Jamaican music history. Winner of 'Compilation of the Month' from Seven andMuzik magazines. NME called it, 'a perfect intro into Jamaican music'. 15 tracks from such artists as Michigan & Smiley, Dawn Penn, Skatalites, Prince Jazzbo, Jackie Mittoo, Lone Ranger, Cedric Brooks and Sound Dimension. 40 page special edition booklet. Digipak housed in a slipcase.
