For a U.K.-based group that spent their entire tenure paying homage to the great singers and songwriters of the Island Nation (Jamaica), the oft-scoffed-at
UB40 pull off something of a coup with this unique reggae compilation. While most laypeople would only recognize
UB40 from their early-'80s crossover mega-hit "Red Red Wine" and their numerous reggae covers of popular songs (
Al Green's "Here I Am,"
Elvis Presley's "Can't Help Falling in Love"), the group affirms their respect among the reggae community with this veritable who's who of the genre. With a track list culled from
UB40's personal favorites and a slew of legendary toasters and famed producers (
Sly & Robbie,
Steely & Clevie, Fatta & Bulby) to treat them, there is good deal of magic here. Rocksteady's golden age is well-represented by
the Mighty Diamonds on the groovily mystical "You Could Meet Somebody" and former
Melodians frontman Brent Dowe's haunting rendition of "Silent Witness." More irie wisdom is delivered on Jackie Robinson's delightful "Don't Do the Crime" and
Bob Andy's "Love Is All Is Alright." While the pace is slow and the mood is invariably mature, reggae lovers of varying levels of fandom will find much of value in the
Fathers of Reggae collection. Not all the offerings are a cut above, including the aging Cool Ruler's (
Gregory Isaacs) version of "Bring Me Your Cup," the altogether too-synthetic "Higher Ground" (
Leroy Sibbles), and the surprisingly unmoving "Watchdogs" (by slack originator turned Rasta legend
Max Romeo). However, on the strength of the amazing cache of reggae vocals alone (
Toots Hibbert,
Alton Ellis,
Freddie McGregor,
John Holt), this album is a unique work, but considering the occasional spotty songwriting in
UB40's originals, the album doesn't always reach the lofty heights that the distinguished panel have attained in their storied careers. ~ M.F. DiBella