Desmond Dekker This Is Crucial Reggae CD

Aside from Bob Marley, no Jamaican artist has won as much international acclaim than the versatile Desmond Dekker. An iconic figure within both Jamaican and U.K. youth culture, he defined the "rudeboy" aesthetic for working-class mods enamored with the lawless imagery of Hollywood gangster films. Dekker was initially cast in the early '60s by producer Leslie Kong for a string of forgettable ska hits, but his star ascended during the rocksteady era at the close of the decade.

THIS IS CRUCIAL REGGAE collects his best-known songs, including key ska-era tracks such as the pre-rudeboy conversion anthem "Honor Your Mother and Father." However, it's the relaxed tempos of rocksteady that dominate this set. The songs contain soulful harmonies and the subtle influence of American R&B. Dekker even throws Latin flavors in the mix, as on the brass arrangements of "Jamaican Ska." But no Dekker collection would seem complete without his two most enduring classics: "Israelites" and "007 (Shanty Town)," already fixtures within popular culture. Few reggae songs capture one's imagination like these. Tackling tough political themes (like exodus and poverty), the bouncy, infectious melodies belie their serious content--vividly capturing the experiences of Jamaican's working class through sweet, timeless music.