In the last few years English record label Soul Jazz Records have made a name for themselves remastering and re-releasing classic reggae. On this album, French label Nova Records show that while Soul Jazz may have the exclusive rights to Studio One records, they don’t have a monopoly on re-releasing classic reggae. In the notes that accompany this album, it is pointed out that compiling a reggae album requires more than just smoking a spliff and listening to lots of records. The real battle starts once a track list has been compiled, and licensing is sought. Nova have done extremely well in putting together this compilation. It spans the genre nicely, and includes quality reggae sounds from a number of different countries.

Unsurprisingly, it is the big names that deliver the standout tracks on this album, although to be fair, there really are no low points. The Heptones deliver an absolutely killer track with “Richard Koury”, with its soulful vocals and skanking rhythm – which are then taken by The Wailers Allstars and transformed into “They Say Dub”. Does reggae get any better?

Johnny Clarke’s “Every Knee Shall Bow”, which reggae aficionado’s may recognise from one of the Blood and Fire samplers, is another stand out track, as is Junior Delahaye’s “Working for the Rent Man”. The soulful vibe is nicely balanced by the more dancehall stylings of Tapper Zukie and Born Jamericans, who round out the album nicely.

As a long time reggae fan, I can honestly say that this is by far one of the best reggae albums I’ve ever heard. Nova have done a great job compiling an excellent array of quality and diverse tracks. Check it.