Various Artists – Reggae Jazz And More (HMCD50121)

This CD features 16 enjoyable instrumental songs by some of the all time greats of Jamaican music, most of them written by Harry Mudie, and all produced by him on his MOODISC label between 1970 and 1987. The opening song “Cool and Spicy” featuring the inimitable Jo Jo Bennett on flugelhorn; “Adore” a Prince composition, and featuring two of Jamaica’s pre-eminent musicians, “Dizzy” Johnny Moore on trumpet and Dean Fraser on alto saxophone; “Scatter Shot” composed by Harry Mudie and features again “Dizzy Johnny” and Dean Fraser; and “Only Time Will Tell” which features another of Jamaica’s most admired tenor man, Ossie Scott. The late great vibraphonist, Lennie Hibbert is featured on “Stick It Up” and “Ital Vibes”; the master guitarist and gentleman, Ernest Ranglin struts his stuff on “In A Mellow Groove” and “Dark Shadows”; and the Puerto Rican born, Miami-based Ed Calle, exuberates with his tenor sax on “Always On My Mind” and Thin Skinned Woman”. This CD is without any doubt a collector’s piece for several reasons: good songs; great and legendary musicians; superb production. ~Julian Jingles