Sublimely mellow UK Reggae
As someone whose reggae experience is limited to Bob Marley and the Wailers, I opened "The Bristol Reggae Explosion 1978-1983" with trepidation, as lacking knowledge about the genre, I was hesitant to cast my very ill informed opinion on the music being offered. From the off though I was drawn into the languid beats and relaxed vocals and in the most simple terms I can offer, I like this CD a lot.
Having been ignored by the major labels, the bands that make up this CD worked with indie labels to ensure Bristol's contribution to the vibrant UK reggae scene of this period was not overlooked. This collection of tracks is the first and only attempt to acoustically document what was happening in the city at this time and aside of Black Root's tracks none of the other songs had ever been reissued so this is their first outing in CD format.
The Roots style was the most popular in Bristol and still today is the dominant influence in the local reggae scene. This collection showcases some of the untapped treasure that was around then and in my limited opinion more than matches (though in a different way) the reggae output from the most famous artists in the genre.
Stand out tracks include 'Africa (Is our Land)' and Sharon Bengamin's beautifully mellow though totally contemporary sounding (Adeleesque even in vocals) 'Mr. Guy'. Though to be honest every track offered is full of class from open to close. Most of the tracks follow the mellow template which makes this a gorgeously relaxing and fun evening soundtrack to unwind to and has proven as very welcome education for me to the world of UK reggae.