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From Sugar Minott's Black Roots label and Youth Promotion Sound System, this second compilation throws us back to the toasting "rockers" style of deejaying in the dancehall. Captain Sinbad and Little John on "51 Storm" the latter only nine years old on his vocalization here, masterfully express their ghetto talents. This is the strong sound on which others like Barry Brown could lightly glide their gentle tones over "Progress," while a master like Tenor Saw demonstrates this technique on "Lots of Sign (Remix)." In fact, this is the theme throughout, tough reggae grooves cooled by the butter-smooth cloudy vocals from the artists of yesteryear. The man himself, Sugar Minott, not surprisingly custom-makes one of the best, if not the most addictive on "Penny For My Song," where he's pouring out his blessed heart questioning the non-lucrative pinch of starving artists like himself. With others like Tony Tuff, Branches and Sammy Dread solidifying this release as a family affair movement to soothe your soul, we see how precious these vaults have become almost 20 years after.

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REGGAE NUCLEUS
Winter 2001

The treasure chest is opened once again by the U.S.-based Easy Star crew as they are once again rewarded with many gems from Sugar Minott's Black Roots and Youth Promotion labels. Foundation artists are included here with some of the best singers and DJs of the time including Alton Ellis, Tony Tuff, Horace Andy, Johnny Osbourne, Ranking Toyan, and the late Tenor Saw with his classic "Lots of Signs." A nine-year-old Little John is heard singing right next to the big boys on this album, as well as the first known recording of the group Musical Youth (who later recorded the hit "Pass The Dutchie") with Sugar Minott on "Save The Children." The music is "warm and easy" (as yardies would say) and perfect to play while you and your bredren gather for a game of dominoes, some roast fish to eat, and a slice of classic roots reggae for dessert. Commendations for the CD's photos and notes also.

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