TOOTS & THE MAYTALS
The Millennium Collections (MCA)
Reviewed by DJ Johnson

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Another in MCA's budget series, which I admit I took a while warming up to. I have no qualms, however, in recommending this CD to anyone who isn't already a big fan of Toots & The Maytals, who, along with Bob Marley & The Wailers, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, Burning Spear, Steel Pulse, Culture and Dennis Brown made up the core of reggae artists whose music first reached ears on American shores. Toots Hibbard and company had an easy-going way about them, even when the music was up-tempo, playing the hook right into the listener and landing him with ease. The all- time classic, of course, is "Pressure Drop," and it's here, along with "Funky Kingston," "54-46 Was My Number," "Monkey Man," and "Freedom Train." All huge in Jamaica, most of them considered classics in America and all greatly appreciated in the UK. This CD collects a dozen songs recorded between 1968 and 1988, and this is why I say this isn't for the current fan. They have this stuff and much more. This is for people who want to put their toe in the water or people who just want a sampling for their reggae collection without spending much cash (these are inexpensive yet sound very good). They're also for people who are collecting the 20th Century Masters - Millennium Collection series. Turns out there are some of those out there. Who knew? Any way you look at it, this is a well chosen dozen from one of the best in the reggae biz.

Track List:

Funky Kingston * Take Me Home, Country Roads * Time Tough * 54-46 Was My Number * Sweet and Dandy * Pressure Drop * Monkey Man * Pomp and Pride * In the Dark * Reggae Got Soul * (I've Got) Dreams to Remember * Freedom Train

© 2001 - DJ Johnson