Kingston Express are a well-respected production team and live band based in Birmingham in the UK (a city with a long history of reggae), frequently praised by the likes of David Rodigan, and on this release aiming to “reinvigorate classic sounds for a new generation”. In reality, what this means is that music from their EPs Good Day and Kingston Connection is reworked and remastered, some tracks re-written, the art-work refreshed and previously unissued material also added. The result is stunning.

The list of artists on the sleeve shows a mix of international stars like Johnny Clarke and Horace Andy, and Earl 16, with masterful performers like the always impressive veteran mic chanter Macka B and Cheshire Cat, the latter with four tracks and a feature on Don’t Stop The Music alongside Earl 16, Solo Banton and Horseman. Musically, the sound is indeed classic – just try the opening Just Pass and, in the unlikely scenario that you need a little more, let it run on to Macka B’s lovely Good Day – if you’re not hooked by then, you don’t like reggae.

Try drummer/ vocalist Horseman’s Fussin’ and Fightin’ for a wonderful late 70s / early 80s slice of dee-jay sounds, or the classic-sounding deep roots-styled Peace And Love by the late Juggla and Amelia Harmony, or Sr. Wilson’s aptly-titled early 90s flavoured Ragamuffin Business. I could go on, but really, just pick any track at random, you won’t be disappointed.



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Categories: Reggae News