Wild Flower Roots 1974-78

Wild Flower Roots

Two part collection of Richard & Paul Khouri's cultural releases, comprising singles & album tracks from the label's fountation in 1974 to around 1978. Mostly roots and culture selection mix up with some topical & humourous songs.

Part One features a number of long-standing names in the business from back in the days when Treasure Isle, Federal & Studio One were predominant. Man like Ernie Smith, Alton Ellis, The Paragons, Ken Boothe, Pluto Shervington, Tinga Stewart, Lloyd Charmers, Bob Andy, Derrick Harriott & Lord Laro. Artists like these forged the label's identity. Many of the recordings mark these artist's response to the growing popularity of roots music. Productions from Derrick Harriott, Dobby Dobson, Karl Pitterson, Donkey, Ernie Smith & the brilliant Lloyd Charmers, as well as the Khouri brothers. Big Youth deh yah.

The Lord Laro singles Budget Debate/Foreign Press are classic pieces of social commentary over calypso rhythm tracks. His tribute to Count Ossie is also outstanding.

 Part Two sees the emergence on Wild Flower of a new crop of artists and producers and is far heavier with a more classic roots sound. Aside from the aforementioned, producers like Gussie Clarke, Niney, Keith Hudson & Lee Perry (Black Ark era) come to the fore. Some crucial sides from the Meditations, Mighty Diamonds, Ralph Haughton, Earl 16, David Isaacs & Junior Murvin. Deejay sides by Dillinger, Ranking Trevor, Prince Jazzbo & Big Youth. Two amazing tracks from the 1974 Lloyd Charmers LP Peace & Love by Dadawah (Ras Michael). Denroy Morgan & The Black Eagles song Ethiopia was produced by Dadawah.

The attractive cover is from the Opal LP Wildflower Roots

which I picked up incredibly in a 'junk shop' at Front St, Corbridge in rural Nothumberland back in the early 80s for £1... TREASURE FOUND!

Continuous mix. Total 238 minutes.

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