This was the first and only book on Reggae back in the day. That day being the late 70's or early 80's. Some of photographer Peter Simon's black and whites are still iconic even in today's high gloss digital reality. Good coverage of what would be called the roots era.

Highly recomended photo based expose' on the important players from the time of Rocksteady till current day. A great shot of Buju Banton graces the cover. Contains some interveiws, so you get some stories in first person. Crucial book.

You'll recognize the name from a zillion cd sleeve notes and critiques. Mr. Katz knows his stuff and if you read him, you will know yours. Learning is that simple.

It's a bit academic in places, but the author manages to squeeze some juice out of dried up theories. So just when you feel yourself about to yawn, he gets your attention back. In all fairness, I will give this book another read because you always spin a record more than once before passing judgement. Right?

I had to get used to the scrattershot approach, for instance, someone like Lee Perry will have 1 or 2 records reviewed under the dub chapter and then another few reviewed under another chapter. Once I figured out Barrow and Dalton's method of madness, this book includes some mighty rare info.

This should be made into that movie. She proves to be an interesting outsider looking in. Or is she? Helene Lee is a French writer that was once married to Alphy Blondy. She digs up a lot of long dead facts. And those facts she digs up may vex a lot of history buffs.

A great snap shot of life on the tour bus. Some fine moments frozen in time.

I've been meaning to read this.

Since the text is for casual glance, this book comes to life from beyond the coffee table, by letting the pictures tell the story!