This much we know: Randy’s Records was a staple in Kingston, and possibly all of Jamaica. A powerhouse of sorts. What Berry Gordy did with Motown and Hitsville USA, Vincent Chin did with Randy’s Records. Vincent and his wife, Pat, established the record shop, only later to be steered by their son Clive. Calling North Parade in downtown Kingston home, Randy’s produced unforgettable Jamaican riddims with some of the island’s most notable artists. Bob Marley and The Wailers, Peter Tosh, Lord Creator, and Alton Ellis were just some of the luminaries to record within the hallowed walls. Reggae Anthology: Randy’s 50th Anniversary is a tribute to that extraordinary musical era in Jamaican history. Complete with 50 tracks and a bonus DVD featuring artist interviews, rare footage, and vintage photos, the anthology is a welcomed reminder of reggae’s powerful legacy, one often forgotten with the dominance of mainstream U.S. popular music.
Lord Creator’s 1962 ska recording ‘Independent Jamaica’ kicks off the album with the story of Jamaica gaining independence. From there, The Gaylads’ ‘When She Do Now’ highlights the perennial topic of a jilted lover wondering what the ex is up to’sung harmoniously with patois littered throughout. Peter Tosh gets political with ‘You Can’t Fool Me Again’ while Jimmy London revives ‘A Little Love.’ Augutus Pablo’s ‘Java’ is a standout, mostly for its sonic dexterity and off-kilter approach’an awkward gem among the fray. John Holt remakes The Isley Brothers’ famous ballad, ‘For The Love of You,’ while Donovan Carless recreates William DeVaughn’s 1972 classic, ‘Be Thankful For What You Got,’ with his own version. Indeed, the original don dutta’s of reggae. Respect.
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