Roots & Culture Vinyl 268 Items

TRS Records unveils the next instalment of our Harry J reissues, shining a spotlight on the timeless classic "Callie Weed." The debate over who the lead singer is has been resolved, confirming that Jackie Bernard from the group Kingstonians is, in fact, the soulful voice driving this iconic song. Teaming up with Bernard, are friends Telford "Tilly" Nelson and Leroy Sibbles who contribute unique background vocals that effortlessly enhance Bernard's emotive delivery. Coming together to provide the instrumental backdrop was the Soul Syndicate band, enhancing the composition's depth. Reflecting on the creation of "Callie Weed," Telford Nelson vividly recalls auditioning the song on his guitar for producer Harry J in 1975. Before the official recording, Harry J reached out to Leroy Sibbles (who had just returned from living abroad in Canada) in hope to enrich the track with his distinctive backing vocals. This collaborative effort resulted in a dynamic blend, showcasing the different vocals and musical elements. It's important to note that the record was initially attributed to the 'Heptones Expression,' likely for marketing reasons. However, in reality it was Telford Nelson's composition from the beginning. As the only member of the actual Heptones involved in this recording, Leroy Sibbles contributed by providing a subtle touch of backing vocals, even though Nelson's harmonies takes precedence in the final vocal mix following Jackie Bernard's lead. Remarkably, on the Dub side, Telford's vocals are isolated in the mix, resulting in a clear and distinct presence.

Peak 1987 all time, top tier digital reggae. Killer one-away rhythm and awesome militant vocal from Hopeton Lindo. One of our all time favorite politically conscious reggae tunes, still relevant today. Better still, this release is taken straight from the original master tape and is nearly a full minute longer than the original release, wherein Hopeton drops a bit of our favorite dancehall vernacular. Real hardcore DKR heads will know when they hear it.

Reissue from 1988 originally, top drawer digital Oswald Creary production

Hoziah Lawrence, at times spelled as Hosbah or Hosiah, recorded a handful of tracks during his brief career, primarily under the guidance of Jack Ruby. The distinct hard stepping and militant style of 'Money Lover' found its place on an obscure and unique label named Haughton Sound in 1977. This label was owned by the up-and-coming lawyer at the time Antonette Haughton who used to spar with many musicians in day. She later transitioned into a fiery and radical talk show host at RJR and more recently became a controversial lawyer who was eventually disbarred from the roll of attorneys before her passing in 2023. The reason behind Jack Ruby attributing production credits to Ms. Haughton remains a puzzle with speculation suggesting potential political motivations, according to the Estate of Jack Ruby. Nonetheless, 'Money Lover' has persistently captured the attention of rare vinyl collectors over the years, and we are delighted to present its reissue, contributing to the ongoing mystique surrounding its creation.

8 tracks

Reissue from 1988 originally,
top digital Oswald Creary production

Recorded in the infamous Stone Castle Studio in Carimate (Como) by the two brothers Alberto & Gianni Tirelli, this is the last album recorded before the passing of Alberto. (Gianni is also known for certain Italo Disco masterpieces such as “Magic Dance” by Loui$.) Amore Mandarino is An act of bold and improvised genius, being entirely recorded in one night with little to no preparation. What resulted will be forever immortalized in your record collection with this exploration of exquisite fraternal expression throughout a multitude of genres. “Marzia Non C'e” is a 6 minute long downtempo dreamy soundtrack to the deepest of summer balearic sunrises. “Dimmi Per Chi” an Italian Reggae not-Reggae excursion served with ultra smooth spoken word lyrics. “Un Colpo Al Cuore” channeling nuances of Italian bastard cousin of Dire Straits in captivating danceable rock form. Arrangement and production standards running high, clearly a product of a golden age in Italian studio recording and session musicianship. Can't go wrong. Includes insert with letter from Gianni to Alberto, R.I.P..

Limited edition for Record Store Day 2020.

Fully remastered and licensed, ltd to 500 copies. Reissued on vinyl for the very first time! Originally released in 1983, this reggae lovers album was recorded by Scientist, produced by Bunny Lee, with the best of Jamaican musicians like Sly & Robbie, Jackie Mittoo, Winston Wright, Earl Chinna Smith ans more...

Edwards was born in Jamaica in 1938 where he was raised with fourteen siblings. Strongly influenced by Nat King Cole, he began performing at the age of 14. He came to the attention of Chris Blackwell in 1959. Edwards had four number one singles in Jamaica between 1960 and 1961, all self-written ballads with Latin-influenced music. When Blackwell set up Island Records in London in 1962, Edwards travelled with him. Edwards worked as a singer and songwriter for Island, recording as a solo artist and also duets with Millie Small, as well as performing duties such as delivering records. He wrote both "Keep On Running" and "Somebody Help Me", that became number one singles in the United Kingdom for The Spencer Davis Group. He continued to work as a recording artist himself, with regular album releases through to the mid-1980s. Much of his later work was produced by Bunny Lee, and he also worked with The Aggrovators.

Originally released in 1976

reissue incl. rare 12" mixes

Jahlin, whose real name is Colin Pitter, was born in Clarendon, Jamaica and moved to Canada in 1975 for his education. He graduated from high school majoring in welding in 1979 and began working as a welder in Toronto while pursuing his musical career. In 1980, Jahlin joined the reggae band Joshua on the recommendation of a fellow musician, Gregory Frank. Later, he recorded his first single "Roots Reality" under his own label, Black Echo. Jahlin's "Roots Reality" is a roots reggae song that was originally released on the Roots Reality label in 1983. Overall, "Roots Reality" is a powerful roots reggae song that showcases Jahlin's talent as a singer and songwriter, as well as his commitment to spreading messages through his music. Its particularity is the addition of violin which is rarely heard in roots reggae music.

Jamaiel Shabaka was born in the parish of St.Thomas, Jamaica. As far as he remember, he grew up like a child in the country side by farming vegetables under the sun with his family. At the age of five of seven years old, he moved with his family to Los Angeles, California. He discovered music with his mum playing piano and that's how he started singing.

Sometimes he came back to Jamaica and there he experienced Sound System for the first time. There he met a brethren named Ras Kiddus. Jamaiel wanted to meet Sugar Minott so he asked Ras Kiddus to help him. Ras Kiddus brought him to the Youth Promorion yard and organized a meeting. Sugar Minott took time to help Jamaiel to produce his song 'I Am That I Am' at Channel 1 studio on Maxfield avenue. The melody came to him with the inspiration of Jah Rastafari.

Lovers Rock at its finest with a beautiful cover version of Merlyn Brooks' "You'll Never Need Somebody". Originally released in 1981 this release is the work of Reggae heavyweight Geoffrey Chung (who also worked on Dhaima with Phillip Michael Thomas, previously released on Missyou). This release features the original 7" version along with a small collection of other new mixes. On the A side, the Dub Organiser skillfully extends the original 3 minute track into a 7 and a half minute long trip along with a new "Dub" version, respectfully re-mixed from the original multitracks 40 years later. On the B-side, the mixing console is handed over to a dedicated student of Dub, the Swiss Androo who's clearly no stranger to studio work when it comes to dubby landscapes. Elegantly walking the tightrope between traditional approaches and raw experimentation with 3 new mixes, each with very unique feelings.

These two tracks were initially released on separate singles, “The Rooster” was released on Duke (a Trojan sublabel) in 1970 whilst “The Saint” was released on Trojan the same year in 1970. This is the first time these two MCCook’s Boss tracks are released together and it is also the first re-release on 7inch vinyl single of these two rare and in demand Skinhead hits.

Attention: This is a special limited edition - strictly limited to 500 copies - one release only.

“Skinhead Revolt” by Joe The boss aka Joe Mansano was first released in 1970 on the Trojan sublabel Joe as a B side to the track “Tony B’s Theme” by Joey’s All Stars. “The Thief” was released in 1969 on the Joe Label with the track “Gun The Man Down” by Dice The Boss on the flip. “Gun The Man Down” is also being repressed by us on a separate single. Both titles are British Boss Reggae classics that are very much demand.

HHV exclusive vinyl edition on multi-colored vinyl, limited to 100 copies. Only available at hhv.de!

Joe Yamanaka, born in Yokohama, was of mixed descent. His father was a US Army soldier who hailed from the Caribbean. He played Psychedelic Rock with the Flower Travellin' Band. He was also a philanthropist, travelling around the world to help people in countries where conditions aren't great. He himself was raised in harsh conditions as well, being born in a brothel and growing up in an orphanage. In post-war Japan, it was not easy for him to grow up looking racially different from his peers. Joe Yamanaka joined The Wailers after Bob Marley had passed away and recorded with them 'Reggae Vibration'. The very first track is also called 'Reggae Vibration' and can be seen as his introduction to the genre, being a Rock artist in his home country. You will still hear a strong Rock influence in his songs. 'Reggae Vibration' was Recorded And Remixed At Tuff Gong Studios, 56 Hope RD Kingston Jamaica, In April 14th 1982 ~ April 30th 1982

Double sided killer Wackie's from 1978 - Both sides fully smoked out dubwise trademark Wackie's style, essential.

Originally released on the Jumbo Caribbean Disco label from Brooklyn. "Big Leg Mary" is on the same rhythm as Wayne Jarrett's killer "Come Let's Go" (same rhythm as Dkr-125 ). Wasn't It You is a different cut from the earlier one on the Senrab label (a different cut of DKR 132), but equally as killer.

The ‘3000 Volts of Holt’ album was the third in a series of records that launched John Holt into the UK charts in the 1970’s. To say that every home had a copy of a 1000 Volts and many 2000 Volts of Holt might be an overstatement but it certainly felt that way, as all good radio stations and parties seemed to have these tracks on permanent rotation.’3000 Volts of Holt’ was the more roots sounding of the three albums but still carried that sweetened string sound that set these recordings together.

Killer combination roots tune from these two legends. Released in 1986, but the music sounds more in a 1980-81 Roots Radics style. Backed with hard dub version.

Limited edition LP vinyl re-issue of the 1983 album classic! Recorded with the Roots Radics and mixed by Soldgie at Channel One Studio, produced by Henry "Junjo" Lawes.

Fully remastered and licensed, ltd to 500 copies. Reissued on vinyl for the first time here, this legendary Johnny Clarke recordings - originally released in 1982 on UK label Arts & Crafts - is something you wouldn't miss. Completely written by the Jamaican singer himself - backed here by Roots Radics (the Channel One studio session group) - and arranged by Clarke and Stafford Douglas (alias Mafia Tone). ”Can't Get Enough" witnesses the peak of his career with his first British production. The beginning of a period that would bring Clarke to London and see him churn out a string of hits with Douglas's production, before returning to work with Bunny Lee and Mad Professor, King Tubby, Errol Thompson, Prince Jammy. Roots reggae at its best here!

Re-issue, 1975 Bunny Lee production, on blue vinyl.

Reissued in a fine style, the ultra-classic 80s thriller ‘There You Go’ by Johnny Lee on the original Fat Bwoy imprint. This long time and in-demand gem is distributed through TRS Records by popular request. The people have spoken. Sweet vocals on this heavy and bold ‘Declaration Of Rights’ riddim, perfect combination and class.

Re-issue of the classic 1983 album from Josey Wales produced by Henry 'Junjo' Lawes at Channel One with the Roots Radics in full effect and Soldgie at the controls. Includes the Ganjaman anthems 'It A fi Bun' and 'Stalk Of Sensimilia'.

During the late 1970s, deejay-turned-producer Jah Thomas played a key role in the emerging dancehall movement, harnessing the Roots Radics at Channel One studio for rough-edged futuristic rhythms that became platforms for songs of everyday life. Junior Keating’s solid debut LP Weekend Lover gathered popular singles such as ‘Watch What You Do,’ which implored upright living, and lovers laments ‘Long Long Time’ and ‘Something Is Bugging Me’; ‘Conquering Lion’ showed that the versatile singer was also adept at deep roots tunes. With a tough mix by Scientist at King Tubby’s studio and additional editing by Bullwackie, this superb offering is of massive appeal to all fans of late roots and foundation dancehall.

This is a gem of a Chicago soul masterpiece by Barbara Acklin, faithful to the original, but sublimated into a superb lovers' rock with tough drum & bass. On the flip side is a refreshing number by Charisma. The ear-catching phrase, reminiscent of Young-Holt Unlimited's "Soulful Strut," is impressive.

Originally issued in 1976 for the Fay Music imprint, here's the Dub classic re-printed for the 21st century on wax.

Synth lovers rock at its best! Jamaican born and New-York based, Laury Webb is a singer, musician, producer, actor, former model and writer. He's been called both the Opera Dread and the Frank Sinatra of Reggae. Laury's musical career began with a role as keyboardist and later backing vocalist with the reggae vocal group The Meditations (with whom he continues to perform). Laury Webb posses a unique and eclectic vocal style. He has performed at some of New York city's premier musical venues, including Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall, The Village Gate, S.O.B.'s, The Ritz, The Lion's Den, Joe's Pub, Leopard Lounge, Kenny's Castaway, Central Park Summer Stage, The Baggot Inn and The Brooklyn Bowl. After enjoying years of being a back-up musician, Laury launched a solo career with his Tigerbone Band. During that period he recorded and releases singles "Woman My Queen" and "It Seems The Same". He was fresh out of college and touring with The Meditations, when he purchased a small organ for his girlfriend/mother of his two children for Christmas. By the time her birthday came around he was so broke and could not afford to purchase a birthday present for her so he gave her a writing pad and pen and told her to write down whatever came out of her mouth, and he sat at the keyboard and began playing and singing. “Woman My Queen”, was the result. “It Seems The Same” was begun in America but I did not finish writing it till the music was recorded. My cousin, Barry Biggs, worked with me on this one. We both sang on the backing tracks.

70's Jamaican Roots produced by Lloyd Charmers.

Roast Fish Collie Weed & Corn Bread is a studio album by Jamaican reggae legend Lee “Scratch” Perry, released in 1978. Although Perry had been in the Jamaican music business for a long time by 1978, this album was the first he released to only include songs sung by himself. It’s also produced by Perry himself at his Black Ark Studio. It is considered a rather experimental album, since Perry wasn’t known as an astonishing vocalist. Nevertheless, the album went on to become a reggae classic. Roast Fish Collie Weed & Corn Bread is now available on black vinyl.

This is one of Leroy Simmonds' best-known songs, with a melancholy voice that is irresistible. It was a hit in the U.K. at the time and was later remade by other labels such as Ariwa, but this is the first take. The reverse side is a Lovers Rock version of "Come On Sister," which also has a disco/funk take.

Lloyd Charmers' remake of the 1974 Ohio Players' big tune that became the album title. The tight rhythm and horn section are replaced with a piercing organ sound for a sexy funk reggae tune.

All time party Studio One dancehall tune from the legendary Lone Ranger, guaranteed to make people dance. Monster, monster tune! 100% Essential! Released for the first time on Soul Jazz Records as loud 7" bullets! Newly remastered, clean pressings. Limited-edition Pure Fire!