Bringing together over 50 of Jamaica's greatest session musicians, whose work spans from the birth of reggae in the late 1960s until today, Roots Architects is the largest gathering of Jamaican musical talent on one all-instrumental album. Never before have so many veterans, who helped create the immortal rhythms that made reggae internationally successful, been assembled to play on new material without vocals. This album aims to celebrate and pay tribute to the unsung heroes of reggae music: the rhythm builders or Roots Architects. Learn More
First Word Records is proud to bring you 'The Essance' - the classic debut album by Essa (formerly known as Yungun), originally released in 2004, now released on vinyl & digital for the first time, 20 years on!
A lyricist, lawyer and a Londoner, legendary MC Essa has earned praise over the years from artists such as Nas and Mark Ronson, as well as performing and recording with legends like De La Soul, Wu-Tang Clan, Guru, Slum Village and Pharoahe Monch. Learn More
Leron Carson may not be the most widely recognized producer in the Midwest, but his career has deep roots. His first release dates back to 2001, when Theo Parrish released a track he'd recorded in 1987, and since then, Carson has made intermittent appearances on Parrish's Sound Signature label. His latest 12" release for Theo's label is a true standout! "Lemonline" is a smooth, breezy gem, where Carson's jazzy piano melodies effortlessly blend with vibrant, Latin-inspired rhythms. On the flipside, "Sofnthik" transports listeners to an undiscovered 1980s Chicago deep house vibe, with warm, soulful chords swirling around a choppy drum machine groove. It's unclear if it was recorded three decades ago, but it certainly captures that nostalgic lo-fi, analogue essence.
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Classic Dub Syndicate album that sees drummer "Style" Scott and bassist "Flabba" Holt holding together the monstrous reggae riddims, while Adrian Sherwood works his magic at the controls. Features guest appearances from Lee “Scratch” Perry on “Dubbing Psycho Thriller” and “Dubaddisababa”, and Michael Franti (Beatnigs/Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy) on “No No”. Learn More
Makin' Moves kicks off 2025 with a scorching four-track EP from Detroit’s Javonntte, a producer whose deep connection to the city’s dynamic music scene can be felt in every beat. A veteran of the early ‘90s house movement, Javonntte refined his skills alongside iconic figures like Blake Baxter and Amp Fiddler, and this experience shines through in the richness and variety of this release. 'Chicago' serves as a vibrant tribute to his hometown, its driving rhythms and soulful chords capturing the essence of the city's dance music tradition. 'Good Vibration' radiates with energy, its catchy melodies and uplifting vocals reflecting the celebratory side of house music. 'What' takes a more introspective turn, with its hypnotic groove and poignant vocals evoking late-night reflections and soul-searching moments on the dancefloor. 'White Wing Dove' soars with gospel-inspired chords and powerful vocals, showcasing Javonntte’s talent for blending spirituality with dancefloor energy in a seamless experience. This release is a testament to Javonntte's enduring legacy in house music, with his roots continuing to fuel his boundless creativity.
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Kokoroko return with this exclusive Double A Side vinyl of 'Baba Ayoola' and 'Carry Me Home' released via Brownswood Recordings on 25th June 2021. Both singles achieved huge support upon digital release by BBC Radio, BBC 6 Music, 1Xtra, Afropunk, Clash, Rolling Stone France & NPR. 'Baba Ayoola' was written as a tribute to the grandfather of the band's alto saxophonist Cassie Kinoshi and is 'an invitation to celebrate life'. Whilst 'Carry Me Home' was inspired by conversations with the masterful Dele Sosimi, whose technical ability in bridging the gap between the West African afrobeat sound of his roots, and the London energy of his upbringing, has directly informed the ever-impressive capabilities demonstrated by London's eight-piece collective, Kokoroko.
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