Hate dubstep? Blame Jamaican producer/performer Lee “Scratch” Perry, 80, a pioneer of its root foundation, dub, a miasmal remix of reggae and its Rastaman bass vibrations. Here’s five essential Perry joints.
The Congos, Heart of the Congos (1977)
Most serious fans would rank this Perry-produced masterpiece among the top handful of reggae albums. The pinnacle of Perry’s Black Ark Studio era, it all comes together here – songs, harmonies, the heavy roots riddims and, of course, Perry’s signature space sorcery.
Bob Marley & the Wailers, Soul Rebels and Soul Revolution (1970-71)
Two albums, actually, but they comprise most of the stripped-down, Perry-produced sides that first got Marley’s music to an international audience. These are the first recordings with Wailer mainstays bassist Aston “Familyman” Barrett and his late brother, drummer Carlton Barrett. Marley re-recorded many of these songs on his Island releases.
Junior Murvin, Police & Thieves (1977)
Another Black Ark tour de force whose political themes are highlighted by Murvin’s compelling falsetto and Perry’s dense, heavy production. The title track, covered by the Clash, has become a reggae standard.
Jah Lion, Colombia Colly (1976)
One of the more obscure Perry-produced gems from Black Ark. Heavy on the dub, this is an ideal soundtrack for stoners. The title says it all.
Lee “Scratch” Perry, Arkology (1997)
While Perry’s myriad albums under his own name tend to be frustratingly uneven, this 3-CD box set remains a cogent collection of his Black Ark period, with his most inspired tracks sprinkled amongst top creations from acts like the Heptones and Max Romeo.
This article appears in April 29 • 2016.