Significantly expanding on the original LP's 12 cuts, the CD issue of
Dee-Jay Explosion offers 21 sides featuring several top early-'80s dancehall DJs live. Cut at the popular Skateland Roller Disco in Kingston, this Heartbeat collection captures reggae toasters in their element: in front of a very enthusiastic crowd and backed by one of the top sound systems on the island. In this case, it's the famous Gemini Disco crew who provide the sounds, while original DJ
Big Youth acts as host -- special mention should also go to producer
Gussie Clarke, who taped the proceedings for posterity. So, with all the "back room" credits out of the way, one can enjoy the likes of
Eek-A-Mouse,
Brigadier Jerry,
Sister Nancy,
Trinity,
Yellowman, and
Michigan & Smiley expertly working their way through some vintage Studio One rhythms, all the while touching on politics, Rasta business, sex, violence, poverty, and dancehall culture. Considering its rawness, though,
Dee-Jay Explosion is best suited for seasoned fans, not those looking for an introduction to Jamaican DJ culture. ~ Stephen Cook