Johnny Clarke, a stalwart of the roots reggae scene, delivers a powerful and diverse collection of tracks with "Dancehall Selection with Deejays and Dubs". Released on January 20, 2009, under Gorgon Records and VPAL Music, this album is a testament to Clarke's enduring talent and versatility. Spanning a concise 49 minutes, the album seamlessly blends roots reggae, dub, rocksteady, and lovers rock, showcasing Clarke's ability to traverse various sub-genres with ease.
The album opens with the energetic "Rock with Me Baby" and "Rock with I," setting a lively pace that continues throughout. Tracks like "None Shall Escape the Judgement" and "Enter into His Gates with Praise" highlight Clarke's spiritual and socially conscious lyrics, a hallmark of his music. The inclusion of dub versions, such as "None Shall Escape" and "Dub with Praise," offers a deeper, more textured listening experience, appealing to both casual listeners and reggae purists.
"Move out of Babylon" and its dub counterpart, "Move out of Zion High," delve into themes of liberation and spiritual awakening, while "Roots Natty Congo" and "Congo Natty Roots Dub" explore African roots and cultural identity. The album also features tracks like "Get Wise Dub" and "Them Never Love Poor Marcus," which pay homage to Marcus Garvey and his influential teachings, further emphasizing Clarke's commitment to social and political commentary.
With its rich blend of genres and thought-provoking lyrics, "Dancehall Selection with Deejays and Dubs" is a compelling addition to Johnny Clarke's discography. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music, this album offers a captivating journey through the sounds and messages that have made Clarke a beloved figure in reggae music.
