Freddie McGregor

Freddie McGregor - Bobby Babylon - Studio One - 1980

Debut albums on the Studio One label go from one extreme to the other. In that they are magnificent events or something that you would rather not hear again. This is LP is without doubt in the former catagory, Freddie spent quite a bit a time at Studio One in one way or another, and this album is a reflection of that. The cultural songs have that early seventies feel, and it's the same with the life songs and love songs. Yet the album is not dated in any way, which is part of the Studio One magic.

Freddie McGregor - Big Ship - Greensleeves - 1982

The emergence of Freddie McGregor as been interesting to observe. His career as come along in stages, rather than a great burst of activity. This has enabled Freddie to progress naturally. Now we have this latest excellent set produced by Linval Thompson, four albums in four years, quite modest by reggae standards. Yet what's the rush- As long as the artist is moving forward at his pace. That must be the best way. What's just as important if not more so, is that all of his albums are very good.

Freddie McGregor - I Am Ready - Studio One - 1982

With this talented twelve tribes singer garnering universal approval, Coxsone Dodd has seen fit to issue another ten tracks. Most of them were probably recorded at the same time as the 'Bobby Babylon' numbers, but that does not mean that they should be regarded as a bunch of out takes. However, only a few of the 'New' tracks would merit inclusion on his first Studio One LP. 'Africa Here I Come' is by far and away the most dynamic inclusion. Judge this album on its own merits, more great music from Brentford Road.

Freddie McGregor - Come On Over - RAS - 1983

Freddie picked his moment well to go into self production. Originally another Linval Thompson production, it seems that Linval did a songs for rhythms deal with Freddie which has enabled him to put together an album as strong as 'Big Ship'. The album also represents a major coup for Ras Records, who with this release have begun a major expansion. They could not have picked a better album. Freddie's now a firm favourite within reggae circles. All he really needs to do now is to maintain this approach.