(apenas em inglês)

The Dutch reissue label Jamaican Art Records released a few albums in the 1990s. Now they’re back on the scene, starting re-releasing reggae classics in a good quality sound and presented in their original sleeves and artwork.

Originally released in 1978, The Ethiopian’s “Open The Gate Of Zion” LP is finally reissued and available for a much wider audience.

Besides all ten songs, carefully transferred from the original two-track master tapes, the reissue also has new art-work/front cover, a gatefold sleeve and a bonus track. Lyrical and vocally The Ethiopian is in great form on an album that features strictly cultural and reality songs. Besides a few remakes of songs he recorded before he really went solo, this set consists of new songs underpinned by original riddims.

The first tune on this album, “Wondering”, is also its first great one. It’s a compelling piece with lyrics that keep the listener involved, showing what great songwriter and singer The Ethiopian was. You can actually hear that this is sung by a man who knows what it is to wonder what you can do when you’re a young person. And there are even more gems to be found on this album including “Africa Now”, “Wicked Is Down On Me”, and “Culture”.

Also more than worth hearing are the title track, an updated version of “Nuh Follow Babylon” from the previous released album “Slave Call”, the delightful remake of the Studio One 1966 classic “I’m Gonna Take Over Now” renamed “I’m Gonna Take It Over” and the reworking of the Sir J.J. produced early reggae stomper “Selah” from 1971.

To round off the album in great style, there’s the massive “Rastaman Song” – previously released only on a limited run of a 12″ record (GG label, Jamaica, 1980). The special disco-mix that appears here is never released on vinyl before.

(excellent review by www.reggae-vibes.com)

PS:

Transfered from Master Tapes, pressed on high quality vinyl. Superb / Clean Sound !

Digital transfer done at GG's Studio, 1-3 Torrington Road, Kingston, Jamaica by Adriaan Brakus and Gregory Robinson. Includes one bonus track *.

THIS is how to do a proper reissue!

Alinhamento:

A1 - Wondering
A2 - The Gate Of Zion
A3 - I'm Gonna Take It Over
A4 - Africa Now
A5 - Wicked Is Down On Me
A6 - Culture

B1 - Selah
B2 - Gedeama
B3 - Corruption
B4 - See Me Go Free
B5 - Rastaman Song 12’’ Mix (Bónus) *