THE JOE GIBBS DJ ALBUMS COLLECTION 1977-1980 2CD EDITION

love it

First things first upon breaking the seal, go straight to the Heavy Manners quadrant to determine that it's not the woolly needledrop that had been circulating of late......it's not, for if it was my foot was going through it!Which would have been a dreadful thing to happen to this set of four classic DJ albums from the Joe Gibbs stable (appears that Dr Bird has access to all of Gibbs material), all long out of print and all essential slices of the dread art of the voiceover. It also has to be said that they all sit comfortably amongst the best of the sub-genre!Although not chronologically first up, Under Heavy Manners is where I'll start, having wanted a good copy for a long time. The album is known to me, but previously only suffered via the above fluffy abomination, Prince Far I's 2nd album is prime blood and thunder preacher man roots toasting. His voice might not be for everyone, but I view few better, and appreciate the darkness he lends things. Many of his well known toasts are present including the Huge title track that inspired The Clash to paint their clothes, and is probably his signature tune. Heavyweight! Includes a hefty Zion Call as a bonus).I am also familiar with Trinity's Three Piece Suit, here in it's entirety, no bonus, none needed, a series of dubby tunes of both rocksteady and roots nature, rhythm riding of the highest quality. Trinity clearly graduated from the school of Big Youth and Dillinger (try to grab a listen to his DJ duet with Dillinger on the sensational Rizzla Skank (Burning Sounds)), his phrasing and exclamations similar to both, but far enough away to be his own. Many classic Gibbs rhythms are utilised, even the casual listener might be surprised by the familiar tunery!Although I know some of their work, the albums on disc 2 are unfamiliar, but no less crucial. Ranking Joe is a well regarded and influential DJ, his 9 track Natty Superstar here without bonus, rocks in upful style, again toasting over some crucial Gibbs sides.On Inna Him Head, Prince Mohammed rides with the enthusiasm of an exuberant Big Youth, whilst maintaining his own identity. Couple of Culture tunes employed here, and a great take over Dennis Brown's classic Money In My Pocket, and others from well known sources. Majestic stuff! (3 bonus tracks featured)These are all from the classic roots era, having learned their craft from U Roy, Dennis Alcapone and other originators, and before the likes of Lone Ranger and Ranking Toyan ushered in the Dancehall style, and as such is as good an example of the art that you will find anywhere. Very strong release in a historical nature, as well as being crammed full of excellent rhythm riding!