The final disc in this three-volume series of discomix singles continues to make a solid case for the genius of production team
Joe Gibbs
and
Errol Thompson
, "the Mighty Two" of reggae legend. Working with such sterling studio ensembles as
the Revolutionaries
,
the Soul Syndicate
, and
the Aggrovators
, the duo welcomed a veritable parade of A-list reggae singers and DJs (or rappers) into their studio, churning out hit after hit and often creating extended mixes for use in the open-air sound system dances of 1970s Kingston. These versions started out with the regular vocal version of the song, but then segued directly into a remixed dub version, usually with a DJ rapping or "toasting" over the top. As the previous two volumes do, this one presents 11 examples of
Gibbs
/
Thompson
discomix magic, showcasing the work of singers
Marcia Aitken
(at the top of her game on
"I'm Not a Queen"
),
Cornel Campbell
(paired with the obscure but brilliant DJ
Lee Van Cliff
on the excellent
"Boxing Around/Look How She Fat"
), and the underappreciated
George Nooks
(
"Sadie"
). One of the album's best tracks features
Freddie McGregor
, one of the best pure singers in reggae history, who is teamed up with the talented DJ
Shorty the President
on
"First Sight Loving/Hugging and Kissing."
All three volumes should be considered essential additions to any roots reggae collection. ~ Rick Anderson