True sounds of freedom

The legendary Trojan label has had a huge upswing over the last years with some sublime and interesting reissues, including classics and overlooked gems on both vinyl and CD.

The latest addition is the Freedom Sounds box set with music ranging from early shuffling Jamaican boogie to profound roots reggae and ragga. It comes with five discs collecting a total of 108 songs along with four post cards, a sticker and a 52 page booklet focusing on the history of Jamaica and its musical heritage written by Ian McCann, editor of Record Collector magazine.

Trojan has obviously put some thought and hard work into this compilation. All discs have their own direction – Freedom Sounds, Jamaican Hits, Pioneers, Innovators and Forgotten Treasures. Most of the 23 tracks on the hits disc are well-known, while many of the others are new to CD and have also not been issued outside Jamaica until now, including some crucial moments by Toots & The Maytals, The Carib Beats and The Planners.

The majority of the tracks were issued in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s and there’s no contemporary roots or dancehall included and almost no ragga.

But that’s not an issue, because this compilation is determined to successfully celebrate the leading performers, producers and studios that have shaped Jamaica’s national sound over 50 years.

And this is not just another compilation to celebrate Jamaica’s 50 years of independence nor is it just another reggae compilation with the standard list of hits from the usual suspects.

Freedom Sounds is one of the best compilations in recent years and a well-representative overview of Jamaica’s gift to the world of music, a gift that has influenced generations of music makers around the world for more than five decades.

These sounds lead the way and will certainly set your mind and body free. Get it now. It’s a no-brainer.

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