I probably don’t have to even mention the obvious “fun fact” attributed to one of roots legend, Max Romeo’s most celebrated singles. Pretty much all of us with more than a fleeting interest in reggae knew that Kanye West sampled (brilliantly I might add) the opening lines from one of Romeo’s biggest hits, Chase The Devil for Jay Z’s song Lucifer from 2003’s The Black Album. While I recognized it instantly, most hip-hop fans probably chalked it up to Ye’s masterful ear for sampling and making what he uses perpetually memorable, and probably thought nothing more of it. On the other hand, I’m certain that there are people like me that LOVE all kinds of music and want to know more about the soundscapes used to create hip-hop bangers like the one West created for Hov. If the people in that group’s curiosity led them to Romeo’s highly esteemed album, War Inna Babylon, then kudos to you!
Timely Reissue
Known for his crisp distinctive voice, socially conscious lyrics, and significant influence on the development of roots reggae, Romeo gained fame in the infancy of chune with provocative singles such as Wet Dream, which showcased his ability to blend catchy melodies with bold themes. His career flourished during the 1970s, a period when reggae was becoming a global force, and Romeo’s music reflected both the struggles and hopes of Jamaica’s people. His collaborations with legendary producer Lee “Scratch” Perry resulted in some of the genre’s most enduring works, including this timely reissue, and what a selection chosen! You’ll generally find War Inna Babylon amongst most critics list of greatest reggae albums ever, and with tracks like the aforementioned Chase the Devil, and the absolute classic title track, far be it for me to argue with that. What makes great roots reggae great is that there is no mistaking what you are listening to when you hear that initial drum intro that is inextricably linked to this sub-genre and W.I.B doesn’t deviate one bit.
Songs and Riddims
The proceedings kick off viciously with the deep bass heavy One Step Forward. Romeo’s voice, which in my opinion vaguely resembles Jacob Miller’s, is crisp and spry, singing songs of freedom, justice, and spiritual resilience and done with aplomb throughout. Uptown Babies Don’t Cry, Norman, Tan and See, Smokey Room and Smile Out Style all hit nicely, and range in tempo from slow smokers to lively skank riddims. As good as Chase the Devil and War Inna Babylon are, perhaps my favorite cut on the whole album is Stealing in The Name of Jah. The musicianship really sets off Romeo’s voice on this one allowing him to flex his voice showing some serious range and the engineering and mastering which is stellar throughout, really shines on this joint, showing that the label who reissued this selection, Jackpot Records out of Portland Oregon (not to be confused with THE Jackpot Records out of Jamaica) really took pains to make sure this wasn’t some slapped together effort for the sake of capitalizing off of the love that we fans have for this album.
Certified Banger
That being said, I’ll be completely transparent and state that I won’t go so far as to laud W.I.B as much as others do. I don’t put Romeo among my own top singers and wouldn’t even put this album among my all-time top 25. We all know that music, particularly reggae for the sake of this site we all love, is intensely personal and often an emotional attribute. What resonates with one listener may leave another unmoved. That’s certainly not to say this album is lacking in any way. War Inna Babylon is a certificed banger, and one could do so much worse than this when talking about albums that DEFINE the genre. I’m just speaking in terms of what hits the soul for me. If you’re looking for an interesting reissue (the physical vinyl is a bright yellow hue) to add to the collection, by all means, take the proverbial plunge and grab it. If you already know then you don’t need me to sway you, but if Jigga man and the world’s most famous college dropout brought you here, jump right in to see what you’re missing. Just be sure to do as Max does and put on an “iron shirt”.