Theophilus Beckford
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This interesting and generally quite valuable 24-track collection pays richly deserved tribute to Theophilus Beckford, a keyboardist, singer, songwriter, and producer who exerted a significant influence on the development of ska and rocksteady in 1960s Jamaica. His name is not as famous among modern audiences as those of Coxsone Dodd or Lloyd Daley, but his heavily blues and R&B-based songs were very popular in Kingston and his studio and instrumental skills were in heavy demand. The best tracks on this compilation are, in fact, those that feature Beckford himself singing his own compositions in a smooth, refined style -- note in particular the gently sung but lyrically brutal "Mr. Down Pressor," a not very subtle stab at Beckford's former boss, Coxsone Dodd. Other fine tracks include "Old Flame," which features the vocal talents of one Frederick Hibbert (who would later perform under the name Toots, as leader of the Maytals) and two early tracks by Basil Gabbidon (who would later be one of the founding members of the legendary British reggae band Steel Pulse). Less inspiring are the harmonica stylings of Charlie Organaire and two rather amateurish efforts by the Charmers. Taken as a whole, though, this is an enjoyable and valuable document of the work of one of reggae's forgotten heroes. Rick Anderson, All Music Guide Tracks:
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Theo Beckford & Friends|
Similar Artists: Lee "Scratch" Perry Clement "Coxsone" Dodd Alton Ellis Israel Vibration Laurel Aitken More >> | Followers: Desmond Dekker More >> |
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