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More Hottest Hits From Treasure Isle
(Heartbeat)

This originally ran in the St. Louis Post Dispatch in 1994.

Two years ago, Heartbeat Records released an outstanding compilation called "Duke Reid's Treasure Chest," a 41-song look at some of the greatest singles to be released on Reid's legendary Treasure Isle label.

"More Hottest Hits" is an excellent follow up to that original release, once again focusing on the "rock steady" era of the late 60's.

The 16 songs on this disc still sound remarkably vibrant. Included among the crucial rhythms are tunes from such groups as the Jamaicans, Paragons, Gladiators, Freddie McKay and an interesting studio conversation between Duke Reid and U-Roy, which precedes U-Roy ripping into a scorching version of the Melodians' "You Don't Need Me" (titled "Rock Away" here).

The rawness which permeates these tracks is sadly missing in most of today's productions. This incredibly innocent and fruitful time in Jamaican music produced some extraordinary moments, and Heartbeat is once again to be commended for releasing such classic recordings.






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