Laurel Aitken – The High Priest Of Reggae LP

Laurel Aitken's High Priest of Reggae album is an early classic of the genre from 1969, and it captures the ska pioneer at a pivotal moment when he was blending his Jamaican roots with the evolving UK reggae scene. It came on Pama Records and shows Aitken's versatility with cuts like 'Jesse James' and 'Landlords and Tenants,' both a testament to his storytelling lyrical prowess over inventive rhythms down low. Songs such as 'Haile Selassie' reflect his engagement with the burgeoning roots reggae movement, while the classic crossover jam 'Skinhead Train' nods to his influence on the skinhead subculture. This album earned Aitken the status of the "Godfather of Ska" and it's easy to hear why listening back to this reissue.
(Radiation/ 2025)

Tracklist:
A1 Jesse James    
A2 Mr Popcorn    
A3 I Got To Have Your Love    
A4 John B    
A5 Shoo Bee Shoo Bee
A6 Hailes Selaise    
A7 Skinhead Train
A8 Reggae 69
B1 Landlords & Tenants    
B2 Save The Last Dance    
B3 Walk Right Back    
B4 Don't Be Cruel    
B5 Woppi King    
B6 Suffering Still    
B8 Skinhead Invasion