VA — 20 Dub Classics

Here’s a CD compilation focusing on the Jamaica dub out put out by independent label Burning Sounds- who formed in the late 80’s. As its title suggests it features twenty tracks- with a fairy varied mix of different types of dub.

The CD comes presented in a mini/ glossy gatefold- on it’s out side we get a checkers board like collage taking in release covers and white texts on black backgrounds. Inside we get a twenty-page inlay booklet- this is largely taken up by a seven page write-up about the label/ compilation. Sadly, within the booklet- there isn’t any of the cover art, or vinyl labels, and we get very basic track listings, with no track release dates/ players involved detail.

In the first half of the CD we move from the snaking ‘n’ rattling percussion detail and on/ off horn swing/ organ jive of “Penny For Your” by Junior Soul & The Revolutionaries. Onto taut bass-line flowing, snaping beats, distant organ hum/ horn looping of Ras Allah “ The Ethiopian’s Dub”. Though to heavily reverb hazy of “Dan” By The Revolutionaries, with its knocking/ slamming beats, way in your face bass, and vamping horn hits.

In the second half we move from Prince Lincoln’s “Mechanical Devices Dub” with it’s steadily throb bass line and skittering/ on-off blend of jaunting keys, soulful male vocals, wordless vocal harmonies, and guitar darts. There’s the more soulful-yet- still urgent vibe of “Red Hot” by Ken Boothe & The Revolutionaries, with galloping/ snaking beats, blues tinged guitar traces, and wavering male vocals.

In finishing I’d say 20 Dub Classics is a decent enough dub compilation. I just wish a bit more effort could have been made with the inlay booklet- with most certainly year release dates, and maybe a few pictures.