Culture

In the early '80s when "artist meets artist" clash albums were becoming a popular format for reggae releases, producer and label owner Henry "Junjo" Lawes released Roots & Culture on his Jah Guidance imprint. This Culture meets Don Carlos effort is simply a one side Culture, one side Don Carlos affair since the two acts never collaborate. What's even more important is that this edition of Culture does not feature leader Joseph Hill. Hill, the most identifiable member of the group, was at the time using the Culture name himself for a solo career, but here it refers to remaining members Kenneth Lloyd Dayes and Albert Walker. They do a fine job delivering laid-back, spiritual roots music like the opening "Tell Me Who Jah" and an even better job with the lighter, uplifting tunes like "Rub a Dub Train" and "Jah Tabernacle" which is delivered over the always pleasant "Three Blind Mice" riddim. The Don Carlos side features early versions of later hits like "Hog & Goat" and "Say You Will Be My Baby" -- better known as "Ride on Christine" -- along with the light dancehall vibe of "Rub a Dub Queen" which brings reminders of his massive hit "Laser Beam." Solid grooves and good tunes but without Hill and the Channel One versions of the Carlos hits, this fringe release is best suited for the reggae faithful, not the casual fan. [VP's 2007 reissue of Roots & Culture gives the collector something to consider with two bonus cuts from Don Carlos -- "I'm Not Crazy" and "Mr. Sun" -- both in their rare extended mixes.] ~ David Jeffries, All Music Guide