Deep Roots Music - Howard Johnson
Revival
The first programme tried to show how reggae music came about. It failed because of too much attention to the influences rather than the main cause of reggae's creation. That of the changing nature of rhythm and blues. Which forced the sound system owners to become producers. To produce their own rhythm and blues records. Which later emphasised the influences. Rather than the other way around. Although the programme did provide the opportunity to see some great Ska artists in action. While Mikey Dread's commentary throughout the programme and the entire series could not be faulted.
Ranking Sounds
Tommy McCook opens the programme in fine style. Then recites his own story. Cutting to the studio for a short ska session, then back again for a rock-steady session. One of the best moment out of the whole series. With a full band really getting into 'Boom Shacka Lacka' originally by Hopeton Lewis. Sadly one of the main features of this programme did not work. To expect Count Matchuki and Sir Lord Come to toast a modern rhythm. Is like asking Yellowman to toast a Ska rhythm. It would have been much better to hear these two great toasters doing the business over the music from their era. But then to see U Roy footage taken at the time when he was No.1 is something worth watching the whole series for. Jack Ruby closed the programme with a display of Jack Ruby’s Hi-Power sound. Featuring live, Icho Candy, Mikey Simpson and Bobby Culture. When Mikey steps up to the mic to sing a song called 'Give Me Your Love' you know you are watching a rare moment. A Star in the making. Great performance and song.
The Bunny Lee Story
The Bunny Lee Story takes us into King Tubby's studio with Prince Jammy at the controls. Here Bunny surrounded by Delroy Wilson, Jackies Edwards, Prince Jazzbo & Johnny Clarke, tells his story. Then hands the show over to the artists he has worked with. Bunny finishes the show with a dynamic skank. While Jammy dubs it at the controls. Go Deh Bunny!!
Black Ark
Black Art, concentrates on Lee Perry. And although it's always good to see old Scratch. Not one moment matches that of his appearance in 'Roots Rock Reggae' from 1977, In between seeing Scratch, we see a group of Rasta brethren having a good smoke. For what purpose is still unclear.
Money In My Pocket
Has a brief interview with Sonia Pottinger. Where Marcia Griffiths sits in to listen to Miss Pot talking about her like a schoolgirl. Marcia responds with a righteous statement of her belief in Rastafari. Dennis Brown gives us 'Rocking Time' in the studio. And talks fondly of Studio One. And makes the comment of the series when he says "Africa, Africa, is just like you call me name."
Ghetto Rhythms
Gives a good plug for Charley Ace's mobile record shack. Shows the Diamonds in Channel One singing - no rhythm, just pure vocal. The goes into Jack Ruby holding court, while artists check him for a record deal. "Check me the first week in January." Says Jack.