Daptone Reco

While far from a household name in reggae, Judah Eskender Tafari cultivated a loyal fanbase and respectable catalog during his recording career. The Studio One single “Rastafari Tell You” sits at the top of a small set of deep cuts he recorded for Coxson Dodd’s famed studio starting in 1978. These have continued to find a place at roots reggae soundsystem and DJ rub-a-dub parties after nearly five decades. The earnest lyrics and spiritual mission of these early recordings would define Judah’s entire career, extending through the decades to “Great Escape,” a new Daptone 45 produced by label stalwart Victor Axelrod. The song alludes to the Old Testament in a vision of mankind gone astray, trying to escape the confines of the Earth for salvation. Axelrod provides a lush roots backdrop against which Eskender shines in a way we haven't heard in years.

Ngonda Jalen: Here to Stay / If You Don't ... [Vinyl 7"]

Jones Sharon & The Dap-kings: Little Boys With.. [Vinyl 7"]

Dinero Leon & the Inversions: Heartbreak [Vinyl 7"]

Jones Sharon & the Dap-Kings: Don't Want to ... [Vinyl 7"]

Fields Lee: Two Jobs / Save Your Tears for... [Vinyl 7"]

Leon Dinero returns with "One Way Love", another magical rendition from the James Hunter catalog. Dinero, along with the Inversions and production by Victor Axelrod, transforms the uptempo R&B classic into a rocksteady mover whose relaxed groove and soulful vocal give the track an authenticity that may have folks scratching their head as to which version came first. A testament to the incomparable songwriting savvy of Mr. Hunter, "One Way Love" is a track that defies the constraints of genre labeling with unfettered elegance and lyrical prowess.