Roots & Culture Vinyl 228 Items

This is a wonderful German version of Althia & Donna* / Mighty Two* - Up Town Top Ranking / Calico Suit with a great storytelling. Incredibly rare. The original goes for 300 euros.

Track B "uD eiW pyT niE" is the same song backwards. You can play it backwards and will get an interesting result.

This is a wonderful German version of Althia & Donna* / Mighty Two* - Up Town Top Ranking / Calico Suit with a great storytelling. Incredibly rare. The original goes for 300 euros.

Track B "uD eiW pyT niE" is the same song backwards. You can play it backwards and will get an interesting result.

Produced By Donovan Germain, recorded at Channel One and Harry J's, backed by The Roots Radics & The Taxi Gang, originally released in 1982. A pre-digital taste of what was to come.

Both tracks were written and produced by Lee Perry. This is the first time ever these two complementary tracks have been released together. The A side is the first ever reissue of the gorgeous Sinner MAN by Annette Clarke. This rare track was initially released as the B side of Just ONE Look, also performed by Annette Clarke on the Technics label in the UK only in 1973. The B side Sinner MAN DUB is a very rare Lee Perry Dub version of the A side. It was released only once as a single for a Lee Perry box of 8 very rare singles by Trojan in 2005. The box is now also very rare.

This is the very first reissue of the much in demand double sided killer single released in 1970 on the Upsetter label. Both tracks were produced by Lee Perry. The A side is a beautiful yet wicked cover of LET IT BE by the Beatles, produced by Lee Perry and performed by the Soulettes. The B side is BIG DOG Bloxie, an even wackier version of the A side by Lee Perry!

Limited edition of 200 copies on golden vinyl.

Reissued for the first time in over 40 years, Show the World is an unrated and relatively unknown soul / reggae album from the Caribbean. Having recently been sampled by Benny The Butcher, collectors and producers are starting to pay attention to what has been an overlooked gem until now. With the album ranging from sweet soul that sounds like it could have been released on Motown in its prime, to funky numbers that could be played in clubs, to reggae that could stand alongside some of the Studio 1 releases, this is sure to please many. No filler.

Emotional Rescue is delighted to reissue for the first time, the legendary Ernest Ranglin teaming up with Noel Williams aka King Sporty, on this 1983 meeting of reggae guitar legend and Miami disco boogie don that resulted in this highly sought after 6 track mini-LP.
A defining guitarist and composer in the development of Jamaican music, Ranglin leads little introduction. In a career spanning over 50 years, he was involved in the move from mento and calypso to ska and on to reggae, playing on the groundbreaking recording of My Boy Lollipop itself, before going on to work with the likes of the Skatalies, Prince Buster, Jimmy Cliff and Bob Marley. Born in 1932 in Manchester, West Jamaica before moving to Kingston, Ranglin's self-taught chordal and rhythmic approach blended jazz, mento and reggae with percussive guitar solos. On moving to Florida in 1982, he teamed up with scene king, Williams to present 'a new style', mixing the bass heavy boogie disco the producer was famous for with Ranglin's unique playing. Featuring a who's who of the Miami scene including Bobby Caldwell, Timmy Thomas, Betty Wright and Williams himself, the rearranged order starts here with Soft Touch. A retake of Thomas' TK Disco and Cosmic) classic Africano, before a skanking remake of the William's standard, Keep On Dancing and title bomber Be What You Want Be, crown the match of reggae and vocal disco. Also, included is a beautiful take on Anthony Hester's R&B classic, In The Rain, while the record closes with the choice Papa "Doo" and jammer Why Not.

Reissue of this 1982 Reggae classic!!

Cool Rasta is an album by The Heptones, which consisted of Earl Morgan, Barry Llewellyn, and Leroy Sibbles. Brought up in the Trench Town area of Kingston, their first successful record was Fatty Fatty, first released in 1966. Since then, they have had several hits including 'Country Boy,' 'Mama Say,' and 'Book Of Rules.' At the guiding hand of top producer, Harry Johnson they recorded Cool Rasta, which came out in 1976. The title track of the album is a typical example of The Heptones at their brilliant best.

Remastered and pressed on audiophile virgin vinyl for your listening pleasure.

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 1989, amazing leftfield Lovers Rock featuring extended dub version - emotional love bomb. Re-mastered and restored.

Get ready for a double dose of roots fire with the next Jack Ruby reissue! This 12" packs a serious punch on both sides. First up, the legendary Tyrone Taylor with "Move Up Black Man." Originally recorded in 1976, this anthem for empowerment is finally getting its rightful release as a single. Next up, for an absolute deep roots experience, we have "Free Rhodesia" a monumental instrumental on the "Rockfort Rock" rhythm featuring the full lineup of the Black Disciples backing band. Jack Ruby himself introduces the band one by one, and for those who remember, this track gets a mention in the iconic film "Rockers," where Ruby requests the drumming talents of the one and only Leroy "Horsemouth" Wallace.

Limited 180 gram vinyl LP pressing including original artwork. Natty Dread is considered Bob Marley's finest album, the ultimate reggae recording of all time. This was Marley's first album without former band mates Peter Tosh and Bunny Livingston, and the first released as Bob Marley & the Wailers. The material presented here defines what reggae was originally all about, with political and social commentary mixed with religious paeans to Jah. Bob Marley was a Jamaican reggae singer, song writer, musician, and guitarist who achieved international fame and acclaim. His music in the 70s established his worldwide reputation and produced his status as one of the world's best-selling artists of all time, with sales of more than 75 million records.

Like Sun Ra's Arkestra and John Coltrane are to jazz, the Mystic Revelation of Rastafari are to reggae - the ultimate expression of roots music and Rastafarian ideology in reggae music, music functioning at a high level of spiritual consciousness combined with an equally avant-garde and forward-looking approach to sound.The group's stunning, unique and groundbreaking 1973 album 'Grounation', a mighty conceptual triplealbum (the first ever reggae triple!) is, similar to Marvin Gaye's 'What's Goin' On', a definitive allencompassing cultural statement of its time and place. A sprawling album of raw and unique cultural expression that combined Rastafari consciousness with deep spiritual jazz music - an absolute and essential classic of Reggae music.The Mystic Revelation of Rastafari group came into existence at the start of 1970s, the union of two artists (and groups) of equal repute - Count Ossie and his African Drums and saxophonist Cedric 'Im' Brooks' and his group, The Mystics. Both Ossie and Brooks were alumni from the great Studio One Records.

Michael George Henry (aka Ras Michael and, for this lone release, Dadawah) was born in 1943 in Saint Mary Parish, in northeastern Jamaica. Henry was raised in a Rastafari community when the religious movement was still in its infancy and marginalized within Jamaica. It was there that he began performing Nyahbinghi, the Rastafarian devotional music that combines the influences of African drumming and Black gospel. Henry found himself in Kingston in the late 1950s where he worked for Coxsone Dodd at the legendary Studio One. By 1968, he had formed the group Sons of Negus and the first overtly Rasta record label, Zion Disc. As Rasta filtered into the mainstream, Henry released more music including albums for Trojan, Dynamic and Grounation labels. Originally released in 1974, Peace And Love – Wadadasow is Dadawah’s magnum opus. Produced by Lloyd Charmers, the album features slinky basslines, wah-wah guitar, hypnotic keyboards, dubbed-out studio trickery and, of course, the propulsive drumming and rhythmic chanting characteristic of Nyahbinghi. Antarctica Starts Here presents the first widely available domestic release of Peace and Love - Wadadasow. This reissue is part of an archival series that focuses on Trojan’s essential ’60s and ’70s catalogue. Liner notes by JR Gonne.

Originally released in 1976

Dub tracks from Black Uhuru's first album "Love Crisis", from 1977!

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

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.

Evergreen digital roots `n’ dub from The Disciples with vocals from the late great Jamaican singer Creation Stepper aka Willy Stepper, whose voice graced many a 70’s roots reggae classic. This cut is a relick of Stepper’s 1978 classic `Kill Nebuchadnezzar’ backed with another vocal cut - `Ozone Layer’ with two dub cuts. Mixed and produced by Russ D in the Disciples studio in 1991 but only getting a release in 2011 on the Disciples Vintage label, which promptly sold out.

Limited 180 gram vinyl LP pressing including original artwork. Containing what is considered Marley's most defiant and politically charged statement to date, Survival concerns itself with the expressed solidarity of not only Africa, but of humanity at large. The album was controversial right down to the jacket, which contains a crude schematic of the stowage compartment of a typical transatlantic slave ship. Bob Marley was a Jamaican reggae singer, song writer, musician, and guitarist who achieved international fame and acclaim. His music in the 70s established his worldwide reputation and produced his status as one of the world's best-selling artists of all time, with sales of more than 75 million records.

Fully remastered and licensed, ltd to 500 copies 180 gr vinyl. Officially the latest album released by the british super group, Lows & Highs is the triumphant epilogue to these fascinating adventure in rhythm. Featuring vocals from Crucial Tony and Lizard Logan this is probably the most straight ahead reggae album in their whole discography. Producer Adrian Sherwood is in charge behind the desk while Style Scott, Eskimo Fox and Donald Campbell bring all their potential efforts on the drums. Deadly Headley and Dave’ Flash’ Wright are the top horn section here. The album features the bonus track Read And learn from 1982 single ‘Love I Can Feel’. A must have for any english dub worshipper.

Among the most important full-length album works from one of reggae’s greatest singers, "Mr. Isaacs" shows the great Gregory Isaacs in the prime of his career in 1976. Better known for his love songs, Isaacs was equally adept at cultural themes. The tracks "Set The Captives Free" and "Slave Master" are among the most popular in his catalogue, the latter immortalized on film in the movie 'Rockers'. The track "Storm" became an early favourite in the dancehall, its rhythm track (aka the Storm riddim) is re-imagined no fewer than 75 times over the last 40 years. Gregory Isaacs love of Rocksteady shines in his cover of the Silvertones’ "Smile", and his soulful side comes through on a cover of The Temptations’ "Get Ready". The breadth of material on "Mr. Isaacs" is the hallmark of a reggae classic!

Get On Down presents an often overlooked crucial reggae release from the 1970s with Johnny Clarke’s “Rockers Time Now.” The record is a mix of covers and originals, including ethereal versions of the The Abyssinians “Satta Massagana” and “Declaration of Rights,” smash hits on the island just the year before. “Rockers Time Now” was first issued in 1976, Clarke had just been named artist of the year in Jamaica for the second year in a row. This is just one of three full lengths he released that year as this was a very prolific period for Clarke, in particular from 1974 onward when his output was directed by legendary producer Bunny Lee. The pairing resulted in a creative energy that resonates to this day. The release was recorded at Channel 1 with Bunny Lee producing, which of course means the band backing the popular Jamaican vocalist was The Aggrovators, which at the time included Robbie Shakespeare, Earl ""Chinna"" Smith, Augustus Pablo, and Aston “Family Man” Barrett. The release was mixed at King Tubby’s by Osbourne Ruddock…aka King Tubby. Crucial all the way around. Now is the time to rediscover a classic of the genre, “Rockers Time Now”.

Check out this classic Roots material by The Originals and The Upsetters from around 1973!

8 tracks

Reissue of a classic Jamaican roots reggae album by the vocal trio consisting of Carlton Hines, Dave Harvey and Paul Mangaroo, originally released on Message in 1978 and co-featuring Augustus Pablo, Hugh Mundell, Robbie Shakespeare, Leroy "Horsemouth" Wallace and many others.

In this great LP Scientist delivers one of his most progressive mixes, deconstructing the originals down to their skeletal base and adding just the right amount of mixing board-generated Echoplex and reverb with his patented minimal sound, a landscape resplendent with steely piano, depth-charge drums, and futuristic dub effects. A mind-warping yet eminently enjoyable way to check into dub central!

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.

Pt. 2 of the 'Dub me crazy' series by Mad Professor. Reggae meets twisted electronics for wild dub trips!

Originally released in 1982 on the same Ariwa imprint. True D.I.Y. business from this UK dub pioneer.

Prepare to be captivated by the soul-stirring melodies of Abe Broadway's timeless masterpiece "Take Away." Despite his brief career and recording less than a handful of songs, each one serves as a testament to his talent. Notably, he self-produced all of his works with unwavering dedication, leaving an unforgettable impact that continues to resonate.

"Take Away" was originally recorded in late 1972, and the composition showcases the musical brilliance of the early The Upsetters band (before disbanding and forming other groups). It includes the talented organist Glen Adams, brothers Aston Barrett on bass and the unmistakable Carlton Barrett on drums, the soulful trombone melodies of Vin Gordon, and the skilled guitar work of Alva Lewis. Unfortunately, "Take Away" suffered from bootlegging a few years ago. However, we are delighted to bring you the long-awaited legitimate reissue of this remarkable song.

"Take Away" continues to shine as an absolute gem that withstands the test of time and tugs at your heart. And with this highly anticipated reissue, its brilliance can be savored anew.

Fully licensed, 140 gr vinyl. Re-issued for the very first time on vinyl – in more than 40 years ! – here’s the third album by the cultish Jamaican band. Backed by such reggae luminaries as Sly & Robbie, Errol ‘Flabba’ Holt, Tommy McCook, Ansel Collins, Earl ‘Chinna’ Smith and others , this is a true gem meant to last ! The group was formed by Maurice Wellington and his Trenchtown's childhood friend Eric Lamont, joined around 1975 by Lousi Davis and by Errol 'flabba' Holt. The group split up in 1980.

A reggae disco version of the Neil Young classic "Lotta Love," which was a big hit in 1978 sung by Nicolette Larson. The song features lively synth drums, an up-tempo four-beat rhythm, and Sheila's voice that gets the floor burning hot.

/ one cold vibe

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.

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.

The one arm keyboard luminary is well known in the entertainment circle of Western Jamaica. Born on the 2nd of March 1954, the accomplished singer and musician hails from Hayes, Clarendon. In 1969 he went to live in Kingston until 1973. Ancel's first effort in a recording studio was inside the popular Randy's in downtown Kingston. He did a single called 'Riding On' on the Musical Barber label out of Mandeville. In 1977 he joined a group called Solid Foundation and stayed with them for two years. After that he moved to Montego Bay to sing with Stamma and the Sounds of Mobay, with who he appeared on Reggae Sunsplash festival in 1980. Johnny made the move for the United States in 1982, and formed his first own band 'Uprisers' in Pittsburgh city. One of the things he likes to talk about is how he once reunited the famed Clarendonians with Peter Austin and Ernest Wilson. Both pioneer icons were at irreconcilable odds with each other for quite some time. When he came back to Jamaica in 1985, he invited Ernest Wilson to do back-up vocals for him. For the same studio session, he also invited Peter Austin for the same back-up duties, and that was how the reunion came about. Inside famous Aquarius studio, there was Burning Spear's personal Band called Burning. The songs recorded there were 'Moving Out' and 'True Love' with top musicians : Tony Green on the saxophone, Bobby Ellis on the trumpet, Dwight Pinkney on the guitar, Calvin on percussion, Nelson Miller on the drums and Maurice Gordon on bass. This was not the first time Ancel was working with Peter Austin. When the split came in the ranks of the Clarendonians, Ancel was asked to fill the breach. He thus teamed up with Peter Austin and their first single together was entitled 'Out Of Sight'. They later entered the annual Jamaica Festival Song competition in 1975. Their entry was entitled 'Paradise On Earth' which Ancel said was quite popular. However, it was not popular enough to prevent the late Roman Stewart from copping the award with 'Hooray Festival'. After the release of 'Moving Out', Johnny moved to Miami and continued his career as a solo artist, singing with different local bands. He did a number of singles, notably were 'Faith, Patience and Love' and 'Stand Back' for a producer called Jolly in Miami. In 1988 Powell formed his second band Benja, a band which gained increasing popularity in the time in South Florida. They have performed on several festivals, played in most major clubs and were a big success in Andros Island in the Bahamas for an audience who not necessarily consider Reggae their prime choice of music. The saddest part of his life was when he lost his left hand to what doctors termed as a cancerous situation in 1977. This did not, however, stop him from learning how to play keyboards. Initially he was taught by the late Bobby Vaugh in Montego Bay and also got further teaching from jamaican saxophinist Reuben Alexander. Now approaching 70 years old, Ancel is still very active in his music. In previous years he performed at the Marcus Garvey Celebration and is currently working with the “Synergy Band” at Royalton Hotel in Negril under the stage name “Ancel P.” Let the one arm keyboard luminary life and music live eternally !

10 tracks

Recorded in the 1982. Roots Radics backing in a dancehall style with the drums and bass of style scott and errol flabba holt on extended 12" mixes. Produced by Jah Thomas at Channel One Studio.

Reissue of Prince Lincoln's much sought after 12". Two bonus tracks on the flip, taken from the forthcoming reissue of the very rare "God Sent Dub" album. 180g vinyl, in Burning Rockers sleeve. Please note that contrary to what is stated on the label, "One common need" comes second on the A side.