*GUEST REVIEW*
The non-dub releases by Scholars Word are well worth the attention of roots fans, so it's no surprise that this first dub collection of theirs (titled just that) is likewise essential listening. Seconds after "Malachi In Dub" sounds off with a horn salvo and a nyabinghi beat rising from a murky background, a muscular bass line arrives to help set the tone for the hour of dub bliss that follows. The disc lets the riddims come crashing through all manner of dub effects including echo, reverb, compression and lots of other stuff I don't know the correct terms for. A particular track might be bright and explosive, as on "Inna Dub Spin," where rockish drumming powers all else along, or more mystical- witness the way "How Long Dub" trades off melodica and saxophone to hypnotic effect. No matter how you slice it, there's a very full gamut of dub being run here. Those responsible for the playing, producing and mixing all have an obvious knack for the original Jamaican sound (evident on the Burning Spear-inspired "Dub Tribute"), though they put their own vibrant stamp on it without simply copping every riff and trick that may have influenced them. It's good to see and hear a talented reggae outfit taking their introductory plunge into a full-length dub release, and even better to experience how expertly such a plunge has immersed them in the possibilities of the dub style.
4 1/2 of 5 dreads
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