Linval Thompson

Reggae collections like this one, which feature as many as four different treatments of the same instrumental backing track (or "rhythm"), are likely to befuddle anyone without an intense interest in the genre. But for fans and aficionados, an album like this is a treasure trove, allowing the avid listener to track the different treatments a truly exemplary rhythm can inspire. "Dreader Than Dread," this disc's opening track, is a good example: First off is the original version, voiced by Thompson over a churning rockers beat courtesy of the Revolutionaries (Robbie Shakespeare's martial bassline is especially effective here). Next comes a dub version, mixed at King Tubby's studio, over which an obscure DJ named Ranking Dread toasts masterfully. That track is immediately followed by a different dub mix of the same rhythm, in which the only vocals to be heard are the shreds of Thompson's original vocal track that float unpredictably through the mix. This is the pattern for the rest of the album, which features equally fine vocals by Thompson followed by dub versions and DJ cuts by such chatters as Trinity and Big Joe. One song is sung by a guest duo, the less than noteworthy Dawn & Christine. Highly recommended. ~ Rick Anderson, All Music Guide