There's always more to explore in the Studio One archives. The latest in Soul Jazz's ongoing root-round in Clement "Sir Coxsone" Dodd's Kingston hit factory focuses on its output of rocksteady, soul and early reggae cuts. The compilation also deals with how the music reflected the socio-economic changes in a country that was fast getting over the honeymoon period after gaining independence from the UK in 1962. This is apparent in Bass Culture author Lloyd Bradley's erudite sleevenotes and tracks by Marcia Griffiths (My Ambition), Larry & Alvin (Throw Me Corn), Wailing Souls (Row Fisherman Row) and John Holt (Fancy Make Up). You can also sense the frantic pace and energy of ska giving way to a sweeter, slower sound as US soul and r'n'b made its way into the mellowing mix. A slice of musical history. souljazzrecords.co.uk
Download: Wailing Souls, Row Fisherman Row ; Marcia Griffiths, My Ambition ; John Holt, Fancy Make Up