The 1980 Masterpiece: Black Ash Dub by Sly & The Revolutionaires
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The 1980s saw the immense rise in popularity of a revolutionary reggae group by the name of Sly & The Revolutionaries. Vocalists Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespear lead the charge, blending their talent with that of some of the most gifted names in Jamaica’s rich pool of reggae musicians. Their craftsmanship bore fruit, birthing gems like the Black Ash Dub, an album fondly remembered as one of the high points of that vibrant era.
The album Black Ash Dub speaks volumes about the technical skill of this influential group. The rhythm section, shaped by Sly’s skillful drumming, was truly a testament to the group’s musical prowess, yielding tunes that still resonate today. Robbie’s bass added intensity to the mix, creating flawless synchronization that took their beats to another level. The compatibility of Sly and Robbie’s playing lent each track a solid base that had a knack for instantly grabbing attention.
The unique approach to music adopted by Sly & The Revolutionaires, as evident in the Black Ash Dub, came to be known as the “Rockers” style, a significant shift from roots reggae to a sound that would forever alter Jamaica’s musical landscape. It didn’t take long before numerous musicians became drawn to their style, imbuing their own craft with elements that mirrored that of Sly and Robbie’s. The list of those who followed in their footsteps reads like a who’s-who of reggae royalty, featuring names such as famous B.B Seaton, Carl Malcolm, and Black Uhuru to name a few.
The album also encapsulated a profound commentary on the recreational drugs prevalent during the time. The tracks ‘Cocaine’ and ‘Marijuana’ garnered particular enthusiasm from the ever-growing reggae club scene. These were recorded at the famed Channel One recording studio in Kingston, where the duo of Scientist and Prince Jammy performed their magic, imparting their ingenious dub mixes to the tracks.
The Black Ash Dub album was released under the banner of the mighty Trojan Records, a symbol of trust for reggae enthusiasts worldwide. Even today, it is lauded as one of the leading dub collections of the eighties, bridging past and present reggae fans alike. From the pulsating rhythms of Gregory Isaacs and Mighty Diamonds to the equally enthralling beats of I-Roy, Tapper Zukie, and Trinity, the impact of Sly & The Revolutionaires continues to be felt in modern reggae. The Black Ash Dub, with its timeless sound, remains a must-have for anyone looking to explore the very best of reggae’s golden era.
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