Prepare to be immersed in the rich, resonant world of dub and reggae with Sly & Robbie's latest offering, "Sly & Robbie vs. Roots Radics: The Dub Battle." Released on September 10, 2021, under DubShot Records/CSSL, this album is a testament to the enduring legacy and innovative spirit of Sly & Robbie, the legendary Jamaican duo known for their groundbreaking contributions to reggae music.
Spanning a diverse range of styles—from classic dub and roots reggae to lovers rock, ragga, and rocksteady—this 56-minute journey features collaborations with some of the genre's most iconic artists. The tracklist is a who's who of reggae royalty, including Mykal Rose, Brinsley Forde, The Mighty Diamonds, Freddie McGregor, Horace Andy, Pablo Moses, Lee "Scratch" Perry, Max Romeo, Ken Boothe, The Congos, Luciano, and Toots And The Maytals. Each track is a masterclass in dub production, showcasing the intricate rhythms and deep basslines that Sly & Robbie are renowned for.
The album kicks off with "Dub Morning" featuring Mykal Rose, setting the tone for an exploration of dub's timeless appeal. Tracks like "Dubterior Motives" with Brinsley Forde and "Dub Glory" with Freddie McGregor highlight the album's roots reggae influences, while "Mind Your Dub" featuring Horace Andy and "Gwan Dub Up Yuh Mouth" with Pablo Moses offer a more contemporary twist. The collaboration with Lee "Scratch" Perry on "The Gates of Dub" is a standout, blending Perry's eccentric production style with Sly & Robbie's signature sound.
"Argentina Dub" featuring Ken Boothe and "Dub Must Get Better" with The Congos showcase the album's versatility, seamlessly transitioning between different sub-genres of reggae. The album closes with "Radical Dub Mix" featuring King Tubby, a fitting tribute to the pioneering dub producer and a nod to the album's roots in the dub tradition.
"Sly & Robbie vs. Roots Radics: The Dub Battle" is not just an album; it's a celebration of the enduring power of dub and reggae music. With its stellar lineup of collaborators and impeccable production, it's a must-listen for fans of the genre and a testament to Sly & Robbie's continued influence and innovation.
