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Harry J All Stars - Liquidator

Released on 10 March 2003.

The late 60's and early 70's is a period widely regarded by many to be the golden age of reggae instrumentals and it is upon this era that this first ever CD compilation dedicated solely to the recordings of Harry J All Stars focuses. Featuring some of Jamaica's most respected and talented performers the set includes all of the groups best known material, along with tracks that appear for the first time on CD.

After launching his career as an independent producer in 1968 Harry Johnson swiftly made his mark as one of Jamaica's most capable and demanding music makers. A slew of local hits issued on his Harry J imprint ensued and after just 12 months in the business, he hit the jackpot with his first international hit Liquidator. Performed by Jamaica's premier session musicians, the record peaked at number 5 in the autumn of 1969 and was promptly adopted as one of the major anthems of the developing Skinhead movement. Over the years that followed the All Stars experienced various personnel changes but the producer ensured that the quality of the performances remained second to none throughout.

I don't know but it's always good to hear the Liquidator again, Ok it's played out but it's the images and memories it represents, strolling, being big, in those crisp white Sta's and clippety brogues up and down the Tote End. That aside there are some wicked riddims on here (plus some that are not quite so upfront).

A cracking beat on the hard bassed driving Soul Scorcher, massive. Whilst there ain't any you can still feel the vocals on Tilly, an exquisite vocal cut by Bob Andy. Soul Special is based on what is often regarded as the original Reggae Rhythm. Big Three and Wha'pen also worthy of mention. Another favourite of mine is Breakfast in bed which is obviously instrumental here but look out for the wild and weird vocal version.

There's some choppier dancehall cuts like Musical Weather and Delgado and an instrumental of Young Gifted and Black, again a Bob Andy connection. There's the usual items influenced by the popular things of the day such as Spaghetti Westerns, Spy Movies, Beatles, Je T'aime. Definitely a huge Skinhead remembrance album with tracks like Jay Moon Walk

Reminisce and enjoy, great sleeve notes again, if only you could read them!

Track Listing : - Liquidator, Hang Em High, Jack The Ripper, Soul Scorcher, UFO, Tilly, The Big Three, Soul Special, Musical Weather, Down Sde up (Version), Don't let me down, The Arcade Walk, Spyrone, All Day, reach for the sky, Shining, The Dog, Delgado, Jay Moon Walk, Wha-Pen, El Cong, African Breakfast, Je T'aime, Young Gifted and Black. 

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