Various

As dub and dancehall have risen in influence and popularity, so, too, has interest in the legendary Jamaican label, Studio One, where so much of it began. This showcase does little in the way of servicing dub or dancehall fans, but does provide and history lesson, focusing on great early reggae vocal groups, most notably the Heptones. Sweet, keening vocals that seem closer kin to vocal groups of ‘50s R&B and classic Motown than the comically gruff singers of dancehall are the order of the (back in the) day, often hefted up with gorgeous dollops of overdubs and juicy bass throbs. Dub may be the among the most mesmerising music we have, but Studio One Showcase is a reminder of how just plain lovely its roots are.