The Roots is There

Try to ignore the unbelievably cheesy cover photo (good heavens, did we all dress like that in the '70s?). This is yet another fine collection of Channel One recordings from the late '70s and early '80s by the sweetest-voiced harmony trio in reggae history. As usual, the Mighty Diamonds are backed by Sly & Robbie's crack Revolutionaries band, and the propulsive, almost martial rockers' rhythms that Sly Dunbar churns out contrast nicely with the silky voice of lead singer Donald "Tabby" Shaw. There's an interesting remake of the Abyssinians' classic "Declaration of Rights" (complete with not quite tasteful synthesizer in the bridge), the typically dread "Heads of Government" and even a reggae version of the Stevie WonderPaul McCartney composition "Ebony and Ivory." Danged if that last one doesn't top the original, too. ~ Rick Anderson, All Music Guide