Barry Brown

At the height of his popularity in the late '70s, Barry Brown was not celebrated primarily for his voice, which was reedy and thin (closely resembling that of Sylford Walker) and not especially exciting. But there was something powerful about his delivery that transcended the middling quality of his voice, and his lyrics were famous for their militancy and uncompromising spiritual and political vision. This collection brings together material he recorded during a three-year period at Harry J's and the Channel One studio, using rhythms laid down by the Aggrovators, Revolutionaries, Roots Radics, and High Times Players. The final mixes were done by King Tubby, so the sound is dark and dread throughout with a nice dubwise edge. This album does not include Brown's biggest hits, but does offer such gems as "Jah Jah Guide Them" (a brilliant take on the "Love Me Forever" rhythm), a fine cover version of Peter Tosh's "Burial," and the title track, which is also presented in an exquisite King Tubby dub version at the end of the program. Highly recommended to all fans of classic roots reggae. ~ Rick Anderson, All Music Guide