Various Artists: The Definitive Collection of Federal Records 1964-1982 (17 North Parade)

Various Artists: The Definitive Collection of Federal Records 1964-1982 (17 North Parade) - Federal Records was founded by Kenneth Khouri in the early sixties. This chronological collection begins with the bright, raw sound of ska, moves into cool, smooth rocksteady, and concludes with pop infused reggae. The first two periods were far more enjoyable, and make the disc 1 a real winner. A hallmark of the Federal label was their pop tune remakes… which very hit or miss. Dig disc 1, be careful with disc 2.

DubXanne: Police in Dub (Echo Beach)

DubXanne: Police in Dub (Echo Beach) - UK ensemble The Police were known for infusing reggae rhythms into their pop songs.  In fact, their sophomore LP was even titled Reggatta de Blanc (“White Reggae”).  In an age of custom tailored music, it not too surprising this project has come to fruition.  German based Okada Soundsystem leads the way in these adaptations.  The mix of dub and versions never stray that far from the pop core of the originals, yet manage to come off as precisely produced, pleasant summertime chill sounds.  Recommended.