U-Brown - Can't Keep a Good Man Down

U-Brown, one of the greatest roots toasters in reggae history, was also one of the most significant figures in the transitional period between the roots and dancehall period, as this classic set from 1979 makes clear. He is at the peak of his considerable powers here, effortlessly riding dub versions of world-class Channel One rhythms provided by the Revolutionaries, who at the time were Jamaica's reigning studio outfit. This being the 1970s, the album is skimpy in length, but it makes up in quality what it lacks in quantity; there is not a single weak track on the ten-song program. "Weather Balloon" is an acknowledged classic, but "Step It Inna Greenwich Farm" and the roots-and-culture anthem "Trod Along Jah" are equally strong. Although U-Brown's influences are clear -- and U-Roy is an especially obvious one -- the irresistible sweetness of his voice and consistent skill of his delivery are enough to set him apart from his peers. This album is one of the best introductions to U-Brown's work (and its CD reissue in 2002 makes it widely available again for the first time since its original release). ~ Rick Anderson, All Music Guide