Laurel Aitken - The Pioneer of Jamaican Music, Vol.1

Superb retrospective of the Cuban reggae pioneer's early works, including some of his best known tunes from 1956-1965 including, 'Zion', 'Judgement Day', 'Mash Potato Boogie', & 'Mary Don't You Weep'. 25 tracks in a digipack. 1999 release. Album Description

"I'll be going back to Zion on that day"

Wonderful! This disc is chock-full of Ska, Calypso and R&B: all recorded from the mid-50's to the mid-60's, and each one is a gem.

Opening with the catchy "Ghana Independence (They got it)" and moving from politically conscious songs to spirituals ("Judgement Day" and "Zion" being my favorites) with lots of swaying in between ("Bossa Nova hop" and "Aitken's Boogie"). The sheer amount of ground covered is reason enough to get this collection. But Laurel Aitken brings flair to each style, sounding equally at home thick in the blues as in a saucy Calypso beat. And on top of all of this is Reggae Retro's nifty packaging; with a nice booklet (with track by track info) and a pleasing cardboard case (instead of a jewel case).

If you dig Prince Buster, check out Laurel Aitken: you'll be boogie'n in no time. June 20, 2001

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