Reggae Fever

This delightful compilation collects tracks produced by Joe Gibbs (with Niney engineering) between 1969 and 1971, most of which are by a vocal duo called the Inspirations (Jimmy London and Billy Dyce) and the instrumental group known as Lloyd Willis & His Destroyers. There are also scattered cuts by Ken Parker and a group called the Immortals. The end result, though, isn't as diffused as it might appear, but is actually a remarkably consistent sequence of gritty late-era rocksteady gems. The opening track, "Mad Rooster," is typical of the Willis pieces, while the impressive (and cleverly titled) "Why Do We Laugh at My Calamities," "The Train Is Coming," and the absurd (but infectious) "Take Back Your Duck" are among the highlights from the Inspirations. The rhythms on this collection are sparse and heavy-sounding, full of speedy organ fills and ragged guitar lines, and the vocal pieces are stellar examples of Jamaican harmony, making Reggae Fever a masterpiece of a minor sort. ~ Steve Leggett