Soul Jazz Records’ Rastafari: The Dreads Enter Babylon – A Landmark Compilation Now Available on Limited Edition Vinyl
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Soul Jazz Records, renowned for its eclectic catalog spanning genres from reggae to jazz, has once again delivered a monumental release with Rastafari: The Dreads Enter Babylon 1955-83. This compilation, originally a classic in its own right, has now been reissued in a special limited edition blue double vinyl, fully remastered to enhance the listening experience. The album offers an in-depth exploration of the profound connection between Rastafarianism and reggae, showcasing some of the most powerful and spiritually charged music ever produced.
The compilation spans nearly three decades, featuring iconic tracks from pioneering artists like Count Ossie, Johnny Clarke, The Mystic Revelation of Rastafari, and Bongo Herman, among others. These musicians were instrumental in spreading the Rastafarian message through their music, which became the voice of rebellion and spiritual awakening in Jamaica and beyond. The reissue not only brings these timeless tracks back to life but also introduces new selections, making it a must-have for collectors and new listeners alike. The influence of these artists is comparable to the impact that Bob Marley and The Wailers had on bringing reggae to a global audience, reinforcing the significance of this compilation.
Rastafari: The Dreads Enter Babylon is more than just a collection of songs; it is a historical document that captures the essence of a movement. The album is accompanied by stunning photography and extensive sleevenotes, offering context and insight into the Rastafarian faith and its intertwining with reggae music. The visual and written content adds layers to the listening experience, much like how Soul Jazz Records’ previous releases, such as their Studio One series, have provided listeners with a deeper understanding of the cultural and musical landscape of Jamaica.
This compilation stands as a testament to Soul Jazz Records’ commitment to preserving and promoting the rich history of reggae and its roots in Rastafarianism. The label has long been celebrated for its meticulous curation and presentation, akin to the work done by other archival labels like Light in the Attic and Strut Records. As Rastafari: The Dreads Enter Babylon hits the shelves in this beautiful limited edition vinyl, it offers both a sonic journey and a historical exploration, reaffirming Soul Jazz Records’ place as a leader in the world of music compilations. For fans of reggae, this release is not just recommended—it’s essential.
Tracklist:
 Count Ossie & The Rasta Family – Africa We Want Fe Go
Johnny Clarke – None Shall Escape The Judgement
Laurel Aitken – Haile Selassie
Count Ossie & The Mystic Revelation of Rastafari – Tales of Mozambique
Mutabaruka – Say
Bongo Herman & Jah Lloyd – African Drums
Count Ossie & The Mystic Revelation of Rastafari – Sam’s Intro
Bongo Herman, Les and Bunny – Salaam
Winston and Ansell – Zion I
Techniques All Stars – Zion I Version
Lord Lebby & The Jamaican Calypsonians – Ethiopia
Hugh Mundell – One Jah, One Aim, One Destiny
The Heaven Singers – Rasta Dreadlocks
Count Ossie & Leslie Butler – Soul Drums
Cornel Campbell – Conscious Rastaman
QQ – Betta Must Come
Roy Shirley – Israelites Leave Babylon
Count Ossie & The Mystic Revelation of Rastafari – Narration
Ronald Downer & Count Ossie – A Ju Ju Wa
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