Toots and the Maytals

The most grittily soulful singer of the classic reggae era Toots Hibbert together with his group The Maytals had a hit in 1968 called “ Do The Reggay” and the new rock-steady JA music had a name. Pressure Drop gathers 17 of the very best numbers from the late 60’s and early 70’s (but not that one) on this excellent compilation. I’ve always considered Toots to be not only one of the greatest vocalists Jamaica has produced, but his powerful style that fuses deep black American gospel with one drop rhythms and his penchant for ad-libbing also make him the most communicative of vocalists for those who are yet to discover the glories of Jamaican music.

Many of Toots’ most well-known songs are here such as Monkey Man (and the answer song Monkey Girl), Pressure Drop, Bla-Bla-Bla, 54-56 (That’s My Number) and Bam Bam. But the selection is literally crammed with great songs such as the doo-wop ballad I Need Your Love or the old hymn We Shall Overcome among others. In addition the sound quality is very good for the era. There’s a big slice of history here as we hear Toots big voice cutting through the patina of time ,borne on an unselfconscious enthusiasm that reflected more carefree times. Even if you have any of the innumerable Best Ofs that seem to be everywhere, you might care to check the track listing to see if this is worth purchasing. If you profess to liking reggae but have no Toots in your collection then Pressure Drop is definitely the one to rectify your shame with.