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Federal Story
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In the early 50s, Kenneth L Khouri, who was an immigrant from Lebanon, discovered a movable cutting machine in Jamaica. As soon as the adventurousness businessman spots the machine, which was second-hand imported equipment from America, surprisingly, he struck upon a good idea that could bring him fortune if he ventures a voice-letter business as a large number of Jamaicans were immigrating to England. Briefly, this is how the legendary Federal and the whole Jamaican recording industry got started.
At that time, Trinidadian music, Calypso was gaining popularity all over the world and Kenneth Khouri never missed this chance. He started to record Jamaican Mento bands at his small downtown office. In this small studio, local Mento and Jazz musicans gathered at the nighttime to record songs with a single microphone. Of course, the studio had no soundproof facility so they had to restart a recording session if a heavy vehicle passes by. Moreover, recording sessions were still continuing until the early morning, they had to record songs before birds start to sing. Those recordings were soon or later sent to Decca in England and they were pressed in 78rpm SP format. The records were imported back to Jamaica and sold at his general store.
Kenneth continued to develop his business by establishing Jamaica's first pressing plant called Record Limited and a recording studio so he could sell more of Mento music locally. Into the 1960's, the company name was changed to Federal Records and they build a new studio with the latest equipments. During the decade, many of the local producers such as Coxsone Dodd, Duke Reid & Price Buster visited the studio to record their early productions.
The eldest son of Kenneth Khouri, Paul Khouri recalls, "Bunny Goodison, a great engineer from Australia, was working for us. At that time, we were all learning. Equipments were very simple and music was very local. We all did not expect this would be recognized by world. Everything was just a fun!"
As Federal Records expands, he approached American major record companies such as Capital and others and became their franchise. They were now licensing worldwide hits to press and distribute within Jamaica. The agreement between them also provided him opportunities to visit their up-to-date studios and pressing plants in US where he was able to learn both technical and commercial sides of the business as well as chances to purchase secondhand equipments at low costs. Undoubtedly, Federal Records was monopolizing the Islands American popular music in terms of sales and distributions.
They had all facility needed for vinyl record productions. Recording studio, mastering studio, photo studio, design laboratory, and pressing plant were fully equipped. Paul said, "At 9 o'clock in the morning, an artist and musicians start their recording session, then track tapes were passed to the next room and to another room, the records were playing in the late afternoon at downtown record shops”
While Kenneth was enjoying his success in the late 60's, a fire broke out at the federal headquarter and the facility was partly damaged. The studio was reconstructed to an up-to-date world-class studio and ready to welcome first-class stars from all over the world. It is well known that American singer Paul Anka visited the studio and did a recording session. Apparently, it helped their name to be known in music circles. The studio asked Ernest Ranglin to join them as a musical director and continued to release commercial hits, which of many broke into local charts.
As the Cuban socialism starts affect the politics of Jamaica in the late 1970s, Kennth Khouri decided to immigrate to the United States. People, especially wealth people were afraid of socialism that could dispossess their assets and businesses. Eventually, he sold Federal Records to Bob Marley and became now Tuff Gong.
The humble Kenneth was always behind the scene therefore when people talk about the beginnings of the Jamaican music industry, majority would not mention his name. Only musical giants only recognize him as the godfather of the industry. Allegedly, Kenneth Khouri provided Coxsone Dodd's first mixing board. Chris Blackwell, the founder of Island Records, considers that he is one of the most significant figures in the Jamaican musicology. Indeed, he was playing an important role in the success of some greatest names in local music.
Although he was allegedly one of people inducted into the Jamaican National Honours and Awards for contribution to the development of Jamaican music, Kenneth died in 2003 before he could collect it. He will always be remembered as the honored pioneer of the Jamaican music industry.
Naoki Ienaga 11th January 2011
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In 1966, Merritone label was founded as a subsidiary of Federal Records when Ska beat was slowing down its tempo to take a next musical form called Rocksteady.
From sons of Ken Khouri, Paul and Richard, engineers at the Federal Records to even employees at their pressing plant - all whom involved at the label forwarded Merritone productions in a body.
They recorded many songs under Merritone label. However, those only appeared on vinyl records in limited quantities in Jamaica and a small bunch of titles were released on Island label in UK. Some of the recordings never saw the light, some became hardly known and many of them now considered being ultra rare records. Thus the label became a mysterious Rocksteady production in the Jamaican musicology.
The label name is originated from Winston Blake's sound system, Merritone. Federal Records, which was the largest record company of the time in Jamaica, often used young talented people like Winston, who knew much about trends of the fraternity for promoting their new materials. Interestingly, Federal Records used even the sound system name in this case.
Although Federal Records is known for compositions arranged by Ernest Ranglin, Trinidadian guitarist Lynn Taitt and the Jets were in charge of the Merritone recordings. Lynn Taitt took a prominent role as a forerunner of brand new Rocksteady sounds as he produced like Hopeton Lewis's 'This Music Got Soul.'
Merritone recordings were undoubtedly collectives of veteran musicians at Federal Records, high-technology recording facilities, traditions and proud of the record company. Many would still describe the sound so unique, elegant, sophisticated and authentic like no other.
As a part of "Story Of Federal Records - Tribute To Kenneth L. Khouri" program, Dub Store Records proudly presents 40 singles from master tapes.
Thanks to Paul Khouri, Steve Barrow, Noel Hawks, Jimmy Maloney and Cynthia,
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| Merritone Sticker |
Federal Poster(297x420)
*Out of stock |
Federal Post Card
*Out of stock |
Federal 7inch Cardboard Box
*Out of stock |
Merritone Free Giveaways!
Free Merritone sticker for all orders over
JPY5000 and more!
>> Free Giveaways List
* Limited quantity available. Not for sale.
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MERRITONE 45rpm June 2015 2Title Releases |
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DSR-FED7-047 |
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| Side A |
Lynn Taitt & The Jets - Batman(Early Take) |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt & The Jets - Batman(Rehearsal)
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-047 |
| Approx. year:1968 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-046 |
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| Side A |
The Gaylettes - If You Can't Be Good |
| Side B |
Mike Thompson - Rocksteady Wedding
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-046 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-045 |
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| Side A |
Ernie Smith - Tell Me Why |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt & The Jets - Mr. Dooby
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-045 |
| Approx. year:1967/1968 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-044 |
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| Side A |
Lynn Taitt & The Jets - The Untouchables |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt & The Jets - Pepper Pot
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-044 |
| Approx. year:1969 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-043 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis - Run If You Are Afraid |
| Side B |
Hopeton Lewis - Sounds And Pressure
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A rare previously unreleased Rocksteady by Federal’s star singer, Hopeton Lewis.
This killer Rocksteady represents one of the traditional elements of Jamaica, as well as the Rude Boy themed warning which could be heard in the lyrics. These types of unreleased materials could only be dug out at such a profound label, Federal. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-043 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
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DSR-FED7-042 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis - Run Down |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt & The Jets - Napoleon Solo
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The very first Merritone ska classic released under its project the Federal Ska! Featuring a classic Rocksteady tune from no other than Lynn Taitt on the flip.
No one else but him should be qualified as the Mr. Rocksteay, Hopeton Lewis presents a rare early Ska! Reminding the good old days in Kingston with slow, nice and easy vibes. On the B-side, Lynn Taitt just proves again how tight and heavy the sound was at the Federal studio back then with this great piece of music. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-042 |
| Approx. year:1966/1967 |
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DSR-FED7-041 |
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| Side A |
Henry Buckley - You Never Could Be True |
| Side B |
Mike Thompson - Get Me To The Church On Time
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Honeyed Rocksteady singer singing a sweet and sophisticated sounding original backed with a different take from another popular tune.
Henry Buckley was supposed to be the next Rocksteady star after Hopeton Lewis, although in this tune he is credited as Henry IIIrd.Also Buckley was once called as Don Henry, so it seems Federal was perplexed how to promote him, however as a great singer, the quality of his music was always steady and promising.
A previously unreleased material on the flip featuring a Rocksteady wedding song which had its name written on the master-tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-041 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-040 |
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| Side A |
Lester Sterling - Check Point Charlie |
| Side B |
Lester Sterling - A Whiter Shade Of Pale
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The Merritone trademarked, a refined and lustrous Rockstready piece along with the cover ballad inst of a popular song.
This Rocksteady inst represents another one of those utterly rare Merritone singles, backed with the original coupling song.
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-040 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-039 |
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| Side A |
The Tartans - What You Gonna Do Now |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt And The Jets - Pata Pata
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The Tartans were like the 70’s reggae all-stars, and this is their early big hit along with a rare Lynn Taitt’s instrumental!
Formed by Prince Lincoln, Cedric Myton and Devon Russell, the Tartans brilliantly represent the “oldies but goodies’”vibe on the A-side. Flipping over to the B-side is the Lynn Taitt’s interpretation of the Miriam Makeba’s hit tune. Mysteriously it’s been unknown if this rare piece has been put out as a single or still being unreleased. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-039 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-038 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis - Happy Christmas |
| Side B |
Lester Sterling With Lynn Taitt And The Jets - Lester Sterling Special
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A festive Christmas piece presented by the Federal ambassador, Hopeton Lewis, along with a previously unreleased cool Rocksteady instrumental.
Hopeton Lewis, a.k.a. the Mr. Rocksteady celebrates the festive season with this happy piece. Flip is the Merritone trademarked, an elegant, yet respectable instrumental. As this has never seen the light of day, all the inst fans should have one in your collection. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-038 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-037 |
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| Side A |
Henry Buckley - With A Girl Like You |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt And The Jets - Last Waltz
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Just like Hopeton Lewis, Henry Buckley also was one of the star singers of the Federal Records and this is his relaxed yet consistent, nice Rocksteady piece from 1967. The other side is a cut taken from the monumental Rocksteady album 「Rocksteady Greatest Hits」 |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-037 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-036 |
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| Side A |
Soul Brothers - Shanty Town Curfew |
| Side B |
Laxton Ford - Finders Keepers
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From rudeboy era of the early Merritone label, this is an elegant and refreshing instrumental Ska backed with a rudeboy vocal in pre-Rocksteady style. The A-side is an unusual instrumental Ska recorded remarkably at the Federal studio by the Studio One’s iconic session band the Soul Brothers. The B-side is a debut song by Laxton Ford who only recorded a very few pieces during his career. The lyric is built upon proverbs, which is a popular theme amongst Jamaicans. Recorded directly from the master-tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-036 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-035 |
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| Side A |
The Tartans - Don't Take That Train |
| Side B |
The Tartans - Rockin' Chair
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Unreleased songs by Tartans, the vocal group consisted of Prince Lincoln, Cedric Myton, Devon Russell and Berg Lewis. Originally, it was recorded in 1966. They sing another ‘train’ theme, which was fashionable at that time and about love gently and bitterly on the flipside. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-035 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-034 |
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| Side A |
The Paragons - Talking Love |
| Side B |
The Paragons - If I Were You
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‘Talking Love’ is a classic hit recording and known as one of the songs that represents Merritone label. Originally released in 1967 and features a Jamaican Soul on the B-side from the master tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-034 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-033 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis - At The Corner Of The Street |
| Side B |
Hopeton Lewis - Move Along With Me
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Merritone label endorsed the Hopeton Lewis as one of their star singers and here he left two of his last recordings for the Merritone label. Supposedly, both songs remain unreleased until this time and A-side features Hopeton’s dark gloomy vocal. On the B-side, ‘Move Along With Me’ is a solo version of duet ‘Right Track’ with Phyllis Dillon, which were recorded for Duke Reid. According to the master tape, the song was titled ‘Move Along With Me’ instead of ‘Right Track’. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-033 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-032 |
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| Side A |
Henry Buckley - I'd Like To know |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt And The Jets - Soul Shot
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Although Hopeton Lewis recorded many songs for the Merritone, Henry Buckley was also a prolific singer who recorded many songs for the label. Federal was probably recording with him for his never released debut album. Side-B features a Rocksteady instrumental, which appeared on LynnTaitt’s debut album. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-032 |
| Approx. year:1966/1967 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-031 |
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| Side A |
The Renegades - You've Lost The Love |
| Side B |
The Merritone Singers - Rude Boy A Wail
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The Renegades consisted of Winston 'Pipe' Matthews, Lloyd 'Bread' McDonald and George 'Buddy' Haye and later became a group called the Wailing Souls. ‘You've Lost The Love’ is one of their earliest Rocksteady works and it was originally released in 1966. It is also one of the rarest records hardly ever found. The record also features previously unreleased Ska vocal recording ' Rude Boy A Wail' by the Merritone Singers from the original master tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-031 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-030 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis, Lynn Taitt And The Jets - Everybody Rocking |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt And The Jets - Rocking Mood
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A fantastic Rocksteady song by Hopeton Lewis. At that time, the song come out as a 7inch single and became a hard-to-find record. Featuring previously unreleased horn instrumental track on the B-side. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-030 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-029 |
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| Side A |
Henry Buckley - Thank You Girl |
| Side B |
Henry Buckley - Take Me Back
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Originally released in 1966 and reissued with same songs on both sides for the first time. This love song simply symbolizes fine style of the Merritone recordings. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-029 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-028 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis - Don't Cry |
| Side B |
Hopeton Lewis - A De Pon Dem
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Hopeton Lewis’ vocal matches perfectly with alto sax, which you hear backing ‘Don’t Cry’. In addition to this minor-coded love song, the flipside features another rough and tough Rocksteady hit. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-028 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-027 |
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| Side A |
The Tartans - I'm Ready |
| Side B |
The Tartans - Rolling Rolling
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A debut song by Tartans, the group consisted of Prince Lincoln, Cedric Myton, Devon Russell and Berg Lewis. Beautiful Rocksteady songs on both sides. Interestingly, the master tape was credited under the name of “Eufhonies” instead of Tartans. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-027 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-026 |
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| Side A |
The Renegades - Knocking On My Door |
| Side B |
Hopeton Lewis - Pick Youreself Up
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The Renegades consisted of Winston 'Pipe' Matthews, Lloyd 'Bread' McDonald and George 'Buddy' Haye and later became a group called the Wailing Souls. ‘Knocking On My Door’ is one of their earliest Rocksteady works and it was originally released in 1966. It is also one of the rarest records hardly ever found. The record features previously unreleased Ska vocal recording ' Pick Youreself Up' by Hopeton Lewis from the original master tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-026 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-025 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis - Rocka A Shacka |
| Side B |
Hopeton Lewis - I Don't Want Trouble
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Those rare songs did not appear Hopeton Lewis’s classic Rocksteady album Take It Easy. ‘Rock A Shacka’ is truly a Rocksteady classic of all times. It’s a must item for all Rocksteady fans. With his dearest hope, he calmly sings ‘I don’t want no trouble now, no no no. I just can’t take troubles now, no no no. So let’s together in unity, let’s togther in prosperity’ backed by version accompanying heavy bass. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-025 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-024 |
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| Side A |
The Minstrels, Lynn Taitt And The Jets - Hey There Lonely Girl |
| Side B |
The Minstrels, Lynn Taitt And The Jets - Hey There Lonely Girl Acappella Version
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A very rare and beautiful Rocksteady tune that collectors are after for many years. The Minstrels released mere amount of records but all of them were top-notch recordings. This 1967 released powerful ‘Hey There Lonely Girl’ is crucial for every Rocksteady fans. Acappella version of the song is included on the B-side. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-024 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-023 |
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| Side A |
The Dynamites - Fountain Bliss |
| Side B |
The Dynamites - If You Did Love Me
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Another rare recordings from Merritone label released in 1966, ‘Fountain Bliss’ is a heartful love song with cheerful piano and brass instruments. On the B-side, feartured nice saxsophone solo, a heartbreaking love song in Rude Boy Ska style performed by Daynamites. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-023 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-022 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis - Cool Collie |
| Side B |
Hopeton Lewis - This Poor Boy
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Originally released in 1966, 'Cool Collie' is sometimes considered as one of the first Rocksteady recordings. With hard hit paformance by the back band, Hepetone Lewis sings to free Ganja which is the one of the essential elements of Jamaican music tradition.B-side, Mr. Rocksteady performs a bitter love song in a minor key. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-022 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-021 |
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| Side A |
The Tartans - Dance All Night |
| Side B |
The Tartans - What Can I Do
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‘Dance All Night’ is a hit song released by the Tartans, a Rocksteady legendary group that consisted of Prince Lincoln, Cedric Myton, Devon Russell and Lindberg Lewis, in 1966. Emphasized on double basses and piano, the song was made to praise sound system dances and it became one of the good old Rocksteady anthems of the Rude Boy era. On the B-side, the group sings ‘What I can do to save your life’ and warns rude boys for their action. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-021 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-020 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis - This Music Got Soul |
| Side B |
Hopeton Lewis - Rocksteady
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'This Music Got Soul' is one of the earliest works by Mr. Rocksteady aka Hopeton Lewis. Interestingly, some would even say 'This Music Got Soul' is his debut single. When the song was released in 1966, it seems that the musical term "Rocksteady" did not exist but this classic clearly proves a new wave of Rocksteady was coming very near. The artist also sings 'Rock Steady' to highly praise the new genre. Reissued from the original master tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-020 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-019 |
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| Side A |
The Termites - We Gonna Make It |
| Side B |
The Ethiopians - We Gonna Be Free
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The Termites consisted of Lloyd Parks and Wentworth Vernal and they recorded a very small amount of works except for Coxsone Dodd at Studio One. 'We Gonna Make It'is the rarest recording of the group on Merritone label. On the Side-B, the lead vocalist of the Ethiopians, Leonard Dillon sings 'We Gonna Be Free' with his familiar voice. Released in 1967. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-019 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-018 |
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| Side A |
Roland Alphonso - Stranger For Durango |
| Side B |
Roland Alphonso - Sounds Of Silence
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'Stranger For Durango is a bright instrumental performed by Roland Alphonso. Ska/Rocksteady lover's delight! The song also features remarkable solo on keyboard. The musician remakes Simon & Garfunkle's 'Sound of Silence' in a graceful Rocksteady style. Those recordings were originally released in 1966 and reissued from the original master tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-018 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-017 |
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| Side A |
The Untouchables - I Do Love You |
| Side B |
The Untouchables - Mackie Mackie
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Some people perhaps recognize the Untouchables for their Early Reggae works for Lee Perry. This is another crucial rare record to be reissued among Merritone catalogue. Originally released in 1967. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-017 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-016 |
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| Side A |
The Paragons, Lynn Taitt And The Jets - We Were Meant To Be |
| Side B |
The Paragons, Lynn Taitt And The Jets - We Were Meant To Be (Acappella)
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One of the earliest works recorded by John Holt. This is a golden Rocksteady piece clearly depicts beautiful atmosphere that Federal Records always has kept in their recording material. The single was originally released in 1966 without this acappella version. Reissued from the original master tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-016 |
| Approx. year:1968 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-015 |
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| Side A |
The Tartans - Real Gone Sweet |
| Side B |
The Tartans - It's Not Right
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This vocal group called the Tartans was indeed a Rocksteady dream group that consisted of Prince Lincoln, Cedric Myton, Devon Russell and Berg Lewis. The veterans worked on this fine love song ‘Real Gone Sweet’ in their early career. Their energetic performance can be fully heard on their sweet harmonies. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-015 |
| Approx. year:1968 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-014 |
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| Side A |
The Gaylettes, Lynn Taitt & The Jets - Silent River Runs Deep |
| Side B |
The Gaylettes, Lynn Taitt & The Jets - I Like Your World
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Judy Mowatt used to form a group called the Gaylettes in her early career although she is known for touring all over the world as a
member of I Threes and the Wailers. 'Silent River Runs Deep' is the most known song and a hit for the group. 'I Like Your World' was
also originally released on the A-side of another record released on Merritone label. Those recordings of this double A-sided single
are certainly great enduring female Rocksteady songs of all time. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-014 |
| Approx. year:1968 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-013 |
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| Side A |
Hopeton Lewis, Merritone All Stars - Let Me Come On Home |
| Side B |
Hopeton Lewis, Merritone All Stars - Hardships Of Life
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Leslie Butler's Jazz approach, which can be heard in the beginning, obviously secures elegance of 'Let Me Come On Home'. Hopeton Lewis also sings sufferer's song on the flipside. Both side are taken straight from the original master tape for this reissue. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-013 |
| Approx. year:1968 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-012 |
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| Side A |
Joe Higgs, Lynn Taitt & The Jets - You Hurt My Soul |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt & The Jets - Why Am I Treated So Bad?
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Joe Higgs was a mentor for many young artists and taught them how to sing as well as about the recording industry. Many followed and learned his lessens and passed it on to coming generations. ‘You Hurt My Soul’ is one of his early recordings with his distinctive singing style. Side B is Merritone cut to the classic reggae instrumental ‘Bad Treatment’. The recordings were released in 1968 and reissued from the original master tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-012 |
| Approx. year:1968 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-011 |
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| Side A |
Don Henry, Lynn Taitt & The Jets - As Long As I Live |
| Side B |
Pulus - Sow To Reap
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Henry Buckley, who was also a Rocksteady star of the Federal in addition to Hopeton Lewis, released this up-tempo song 'As Long As I
Live' in 1968. Remarkably, Judy Mowatt's the Gaylettes backed this song. 'Sow To Reap' was originally released on the B-side of
Roland Alphonso's 'How Soon' in 1966 on Federal label. Reissued from the original master tape.. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-011 |
| Approx. year:1968/1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-010 |
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| Side A |
The Ethiopians - You Got To Be Clean |
| Side B |
The Ethiopians - Miss Nora
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Previously unreleased material from the original master tape. Ethiopians recorded a couple of songs for Merritone label in 1976. During this proto-reggae/roots period, they surprisingly recorded this roots song ‘You Got To Be Clean’ with lyrics referring to “Zion” in 1966. Side B is a love song that expresses sentimental feelings of a boy who fail in love with a girl. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-010 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-009 |
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| Side A |
Roland Alphonso - Sai Pan |
| Side B |
Black Brothers - Born To Rule
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This deep Ska instrumental 'Sai Pan' features a beautiful solo by Roland Alphonso. The most sought after record of Merritone Ska and a crucial for all Ska lovers. On the flipside, the record features a mid-tempo Rude Boy Ska anthem 'Born To Rule' by Black Brothers, the song was taken straight from the original master tape for this reissue. Another hard to find record released in 1966. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-009 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-008 |
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| Side A |
Tomorrow's Children - Bang Bang Rock Steady |
| Side B |
Tomorrow's Children - Rain(Rock Steady)
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Tomorrow's Children were probably favored by uptown youths rather than downtown Rudies because of their funky, hard hitting sounds and lyrics. With those elements, they successfully created own killer style, which can be undoubtedly heard with ‘Bang Bang Rock Steady'. The group also versioned the Beatles' 'Rain' in fine Rocksteady style. The original record was released in 1967. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-008 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-007 |
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| Side A |
Henry Buckley - Beware Of All Those Rude Boys |
| Side B |
Henry Buckley - If I Am Right
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Merritone label endorsed Henry Buckley as a star singer of the label during the Rocksteady period. He sings "Beware of all those rude boys going around with their guns, spoiling everybody's fun" to warn behaviors of Rude Boys. It seems Rudies were everywhere when the song was released in 1966. He also showcases his conscious lyrics with song ‘If I Am Right’. The artist tried to deliver profound messages to youths. Those recordings were taken straight from the original master tape for the reissue. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-007 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-006 |
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| Side A |
Roland Alphonso - How Soon |
| Side B |
Roland Alphonso - How Soon Pt.2
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Roland Alphonso has covered many songs with his own unique style from his early career. 'How Soon' is simply another beautiful instrumental cover performed by Roland. ‘How Soon Pt.2' is a previously unreleased take to the A-side. Released on Federal label in 1966 and reissued from the original master tape.
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-006 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-005 |
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| Side A |
The Renegades - Big And Fine |
| Side B |
Oswald Sewell - Where Can He Go
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The Renegades showcase one of their valuable early works to perfection. 'Big And Fine' was originally released 1966 and collectors would say the record is one of the most sought after records by the group. It also features Oswald Sewell 's previously unreleased Ska vocal material 'Oh My Love' from the original master tape on the B-side. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-005 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-004 |
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| Side A |
The Renegades - Mr. Hops |
| Side B |
Oswald Sewell - Oh My Love
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The Renegades consisted of Winston 'Pipe' Matthews, Lloyd 'Bread' McDonald and George 'Buddy' Haye and later became a group called the Wailing Souls. Definitely, ‘Mr. Hops’ is the most powerful Rocksteady vocal song among the whole Merritone catalogue. Originally released in 1966 and one of the rarest records you could never find. This record also features previously unreleased Ska vocal recording 'Oh My Love' from the original master tape. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-004 |
| Approx. year:1966 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FED7-003 |
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| Side A |
Lynn Taitt And The Jets - Bat Man |
| Side B |
Lynn Taitt And The Jets - The Joker
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Lynn Taitt remakes theme songs from the movie "Batman" in killer Rocksteady style. Those cheerful instrumentals, which well represent the distinctive sound of Marritone label, were originally released in 1968. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-003 |
| Approx. year:1968 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-002 |
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| Side A |
The Zodiacs - Walk On By |
| Side B |
Merritone Singers - House Upon The Hill
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This is a Rocksteady cut of the Zodiacs' 'Walk On By' released in 1967. They recorded the original Ska cut at Duke Reid's Treasure Isle. Rare Rocksteady classic with beautiful harmonies on a profound rhythm. On the B-side, this previously unreleased material 'House Upon The Hill' features an unknown vocal group called Merritone singers. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-002 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED7-001 |
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| Side A |
Eddie Perkins - I'm Coming Home |
| Side B |
Merritone All Stars - I'm Coming Home (Instrumental)
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Recorded in 1967 and previously unreleased material from the original master tape. This elegant but also distinctive recording is certainly incomparable to other recordings appeared during the Rocksteady era. Veteran singer, Eddie Perkins, started his career in the early 1960s and he worked with Alton Ellis as duo called Alton and Eddy. |
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7inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED7-001 |
| Approx. year:1967 |
| On Sale! |
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Please note that we are stating some recordings are previously unreleased, however; there are possibilities that they have been released in the past because original vinyl records among Merritone catalogue are very hard to find and some songs are hard to determine whether they have been released previously or not. |
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Federal Records' Kentone label became one of the greatest Ska prodctions in the mid 60's.
Thier released materials still depicts the monents when Ska was in its heyday.
This reissue programm presented by Dub Store Records include previously unreleased materials.
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Kentone Free Giveaway!! |
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Free sticker of your choice for all orders over JPY7000
>>Free Giveaways List
* Limited quantity available. Not for sale. |
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DSR-KK7-001 |
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| Side A |
Ernest Ranglin & Selected Group - Free Form |
| Side B |
Ernest Ranglin & Selected Group - Skalvouvia |
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| One of the most rare double A-sided singles recorded under direction of Ernest Ranglin, who was the musical director of Federal Recording Studio at the time. While this jazzy instrumental features superbsolos by trumpet and alto saxophone, Ernie leads this minor track from beginning to end and showcases his mighty guitar playing. On the flipside, remarkable solos by trumpet and alto saxophone are again featured on the bright mid-tempo track. The original 7inch format is almost impossible to find. These recordings are simply elegant Ska
Instrumentals. |
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7inch Vinyl |
| Product Number:DSR-KK7-001 |
| Sold Out! |
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DSR-KK7-002 |
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| Side A |
Sharks - You Made Me Warm |
| Side B |
Sharks & Federal Studio Orchestra - You Made Me Warm |
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| Previously unreleased early acoustic cut from master tape! Unprolific vocal group called Sharks (also spelled Sheiks) released the
up-tempo original cut in 1965. The reissue features the original cut on the B-side and the early acoustic cut on the A-side. With
raw double bass, deep acoustic guitar and backing chorus that reminds the chain gang work songs, the group sings astonishing love
song. "I was so cold last night, You made me warm, with your heart, with your lips, with your charm"...The song purely transcends
musical boundaries of the time and this is another Jamaican gem! |
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7inch Vinyl |
| Product Number:DSR-KK7-002 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-KK7-003 |
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| Side A |
Eric Monty Morris - Blackman Ska |
| Side B |
Eric Monty Morris - A Spot In My Heart For You |
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| Previously unreleased vocal materials from master tapes! Eric Monty Morris sings sufferers' protest song, "Blackman work so hard, but white man gets the money, the rich shall be richer, the poor shall be poorer, something must be done soon"... At the time, most of the artists including Eric Monty Morris mainly focused on singing about love but not about conscious themes so the recording was very exceptional. B-side features previously unreleased vocal material as well. It seems that both songs were recorded for the album "Jamaican Skarama (reissued by Dub Store Records: LP/CD503)" but did not end up on the album unfortunately. |
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7inch Vinyl |
| Product Number:DSR-KK7-003 |
| Sold Out! |
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DSR-KK7-004 |
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| Side A |
Monarchs & Drumbago All Stars - All Of Me |
| Side B |
Sneer Towners - You Say Me Say |
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| Mid-tempo Ska song by a vocal group called The Monarchs. They only appear on this recording and the rest of information remains unknown. Side-b features previously unreleased version of Sneer Towners' 'You Say Me Say', which appeared on the album "Jamaican Skarama" reissued by Dub Store Records. |
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7inch Vinyl |
| Product Number:DSR-KK7-004 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-KK7-005 |
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| Side A |
Stranger & Patsy (Backed by The Skatalites) - Word Is Wind |
| Side B |
Dobby Dobson - Cry Another Cry |
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| 7inch single cut from the album "Jamaican Skarama", which was reissued by Dub Store Records on LP and CD in 2007. The great duo, Stranger & Patsy who recorded many classics during the 60's, sings another standard 'Word Is Wind'. Jamaican soul 'Cry Another Cry' by Dobby Dobson is featured on the B-side. Both songs are first time to appear on 7inch single. |
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7inch Vinyl |
| Product Number:DSR-KK7-005 |
| Sold Out! |
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DSR-KK7-006 |
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| Side A |
The Maytals & Skatalites - My Daily Food |
| Side B |
The Maytals & Skatalites - One Look |
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A prominent singer backed by none other than the Skatalites, it is a symbolic Ska beat representing Kentone which will make everyone a smile.
Although the Maytals have recorded Ska tunes for Studio One, Prince Buster and many more, they might have taken a further step when recording for the Jamaican music industry’s godfather, Ken Kouri by singing it well tight and fiery. Even for the Federal side, it must have been quite special to hire the Skatalites for this project. One minute and half might be a little too short for an A side, though this one will make you want to slip it in your DJ box every time.
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7inch Vinyl |
| Product Number:DSR-KK7-006 |
| Approx. year:
1965 |
| Sold Out! |
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DSR-KK7-007 |
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| Side A |
Eddie Perkins & Patsy - Take These Chains From My Heart |
| Side B |
Eddie Perkins - I Am Blue |
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An up tempo duet with great lyrics sung by a veteran unprolific singer. You may think twice about getting the original copy of this release.
Oldies but goodies, this 100% positive conscious tune is almost singing about “Emancipate yourself from mental slavery” Redemption Song – Bob Marley, one of the representative themes of Jamaican music, in a nice duet style. An excellent party piece guaranteed to make you smile. |
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7inch Vinyl |
| Product Number:DSR-KK7-007 |
| Approx. year:
1965 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FR7-01
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| Side A |
Side A) Marvels - Rocksteady |
| Side B |
Side B) Lloyd Charmers - Travelling On |
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This funky reggae classic go way beyond the boundary of reggae music and reaching to every music lover out there. Beginning with the killer drum break, the Aretha Franklin cover is built to move everyone’s body! Backed with slick instrumentals produced by Lloyd Charmers, it’s about time this 7” gets reissued. |
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7" |
7 inch vinyl |
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Product Number: DSR-FR7-01 |
| Approx. year: 1972 |
| On Sale! |
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DSR-FR7-02
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| Side A |
Side A) Bob Andy - Games People Play |
| Side B |
Side B) Bob Andy - The Sun Shine For Me |
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7" |
7 inch vinyl |
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Product Number: DSR-FR7-02 |
| Approx. year: 1969 |
| Sold Out！ |
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DSR-FED12-001 |
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| Side A |
Leslie Butler - Reggae Rhapsody |
| Side B |
Willie Lindo - Mystic Mood |
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Leslie Butler, Federal Records’ piano genius, delivers a fusion of Jazz and Classic music. A glorious instrumental masterpiece comprises of beautiful Reggae, Soul and Jazz.
Classic ‘Rhapsody in Blue’, the original version of ‘Reggae Rhapsody’, was written by notable American composer and solo pianist George Gershwin in 1924. Nearly 50 years after, in 1973, Eumir Deodato edited the song and released it on CTI Records, which label was favored by Black music fans at that time. Leslie Butler recorded his keyboard version shortly after the release of Eumir Deodato version. This is another rare recording to be reissued for the very first time from the Federal catalogue. Side B features a Reggae fusion instrumental ‘Mystic Mood’ by Willie Lindo. The song became a hit and earned a position in his LP titled ‘Far and Distant’. |
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12inch Vinyl |
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| Product Number:DSR-FED12-001 |
| Sold Out！ |
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| ------------LP/CD Releases-------------- |
| Merritone Rock Steady 1: Shanty Town Curfew 1966-1967 (2LP) |
| Merritone Rock Steady 1: Shanty Town Curfew 1966-1967 (2LP) |
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Merritone Rock Steady 1: Shanty Town Curfew 1966-1967 |
1. Sai Pan
2. You've Lost The Love
3. You Got To Be Clean
4. Beware Of All Those Rude Boys
5. What You Gonna Do Now
6. Stranger For Durango
7. Knocking On My Door
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Ken Khouri’s Federal Records gave Jamaica its musical identity The Federal Record Manufacturing facility was the first pressing plant in Jamaica...
their studio gave birth to mento, ska, rock steady and reggae of the highest calibre.
This album features an astonishing selection of well known classics and rarities transferred straight from their master tape |
| LP |
LP |
| Product Number: DSR-LP-006 |
| On Sale! |
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| CD |
CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-006 |
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On Sale! |
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| Rock Steady Greatest Hits |
| Rock Steady Greatest Hits |
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Rock Steady Greatest Hits |
1. Napoleon Solo
2. Solomon
3. To Sir With Love
4. Winey Winey
5. Why Did You Leave Me
6. Soul Shot
7. Pressure And Slide
8. Just Like A River
9. Last Waltz
10. Long Story
11. Julie
12. Talking Love
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Refined rock steady from the creator of the genre.
Guitarist and arranger, Lynn Taitt, interprets some of the greatest hits of the era including variations of many of the melodies he originated for a number of Jamaica’s foremost artists and producers. |
| CD |
CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-518 |
| On Sale! |
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| LP |
LP |
| Product Number: DSR-LP-518 |
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Sold Out！ |
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| Plays Music For Dancing |
| Plays Music For Dancing |
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1. The Breeze And I
2. Medley (a) I Love You Truly (b) Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes
3. Medley (a) Mary's Lamb (b) Grandfather's Clock
4. C'est Magnifique
5. Sonata
6. Stardust Melody
7. I Love You Truly
8. Sol Tropical
9. Autumn Leaves
10. Medley (a) As Time Goes By (b) I Didn't Know What Time It Was
11. I Hear A Rhapsody
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| CD |
CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-510 |
| On Sale! |
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| LP |
LP |
| Product Number: DSR-LP-510 |
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Sold Out！ |
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1. Grandfather's Clock
2. Soulful I
3. Liquidation
4. Dr. No-go
5. Everybody's Talking
6. Pop-A-Top
7. Sweet Sensation
8. Scoopy
9. There's A Fire
10. My Elusive Dream
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| CD |
CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-516 |
| On Sale! |
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| LP |
LP |
| Product Number: DSR-LP-516 |
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Sold Out！ |
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| Far And Distant |
| Far And Distant |
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1. Drum Song
2. Darker Shade Of Black
3. Midnight Train To Georgia
4. Samba Pati
5. Chopper
6. Here I Am Baby
7. Charmers Mood
8. Mystic Mood
9. Breezing
10. Holly Holly
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| CD |
CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-517 |
| On Sale! |
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| LP |
LP |
| Product Number: DSR-LP-517 |
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Sold Out！ |
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| Jazz Jamaica |
| Jazz Jamaica |
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1. Sly Mongoose
2. Gimme Back Me Shilling
3. Solus Market
4. Water Come To Me Eye
5. Hold Him Joe
6. Emmanuel Road
7. Linstead Market
8. Make Him Tan De Burn
9. Iron Bar
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| CD |
CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-513 |
| On Sale! |
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| LP |
LP |
| Product Number: DSR-LP-513 |
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Sold Out！ |
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| Mr. Ranglin With Soul |
| Mr. Ranglin With Soul |
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1. Hold Me Tight
2. Story Book Children
3. Don't Sleep In The Subway
4. She Wears My Ring
5. Am I That Easy To Forget?
6. This Is My Song
7. Summertime (Rock Steady)
8. Julie
9. Flamingo (Rock Steady)
10. Sling Shot
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| CD |
CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-511 |
| On Sale! |
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| LP |
LP |
| Product Number: DSR-LP-511 |
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Sold Out！ |
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| Softly With Ranglin |
| Softly With Ranglin |
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1. Nocturne In E-Flat Major
2. I Remember You
3. Blue Velvet
4. Like Someone In Love
5. Deep Purple
6. An Affair To Remember
7. Why Don't You Believe Me
8. Smoke Gets In Your Eyes
9. Misty
10. They Say That Falling In Love Is Wonderful
11. Ble Star
12. San Francisco
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Smooth, sophisticated sounds from the highly respected Jamaican guitarist Ernest Ranglin. |
| CD |
CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-515 |
| On Sale! |
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LP |
| Product Number: DSR-LP-515 |
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| Sounds Rock Steady |
| Sounds Rock Steady |
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1. Puppet On A String
2. Unity
3. Theme From Romeo And Juliet
4. Nice Time
5. Only A Smile
6. Rock Steady
7. Move Up
8. I Don't Want To See You Cry
9. Old Beirut
10. Mother Young Gal
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CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-514 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-514 |
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| At The Jamaica Hilton: In The Jippi Jappa Lounge |
| At The Jamaica Hilton: In The Jippi Jappa Lounge |
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At The Jamaica Hilton: In The Jippi Jappa Lounge （Jacket Damage) |
1. Obeah Wedding
2. Monday Monday
3. What A Difference A Day Makes
4. It Was A Very Good Year
5. El Cid
6. Take It Easy
7. On A Clear Day
8. Love In The Cemetery
9. You'll Never Get To Heven
10. Don't Make Me Over
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In the heyday of the Rocksteady era of Jamaican music in 1968, the Winston Turner Quintet was blending in the cool new sound with Calypso, Jazz, Bossa Nova, Pop and Ballads down at the Hilton Hotel in Kingston.
The Quintet's lost classic of down tempo and mood music, originally released on Federal, is now re-issued for the first time.
This is the lounge vibe that beautifully crowned those sultry Jamaican nights.
(Photograph taken at the Jippi Jappa Lounge with Madam Wasp.) |
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CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-508 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-508 |
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| Take It Easy With The Rock Steady Beat |
| Take It Easy With The Rock Steady Beat |
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Take It Easy With The Rock Steady Beat |
1. Take It Easy
2. Sounds And Pressure
3. A De Pon Dem
4. Why Must I Cry
5. Let The Little Girl Dance
6. Rock Steady
7. Cool Collie
8. Music Got Soul
9. Hard Ships Of Life
10. This Poor Boy
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A fundamental album released in 1966 that determined the way Rocksteady was going to journey.
In 1966, Rude Boys were at the peak of the fame with their notorious behaviors, while Ska gradually started to slow down its tempo.
This album paved the way for a newborn music, Rocksteady, with rather slower and tighter rhythm approach.
This album should be considered as one of the ten most important albums in Reggae history.
The descent from Ska, which had its derivation from Jazz or Rhythm and Blues, to Rocksteady, with its various potential elements which would be passed to the next decade of Reggae, has been allegedly created in this album with Trinidadian guitarist Lynn Taitt and his band The Jets as the backing band.
Entitled “Take It Easy With The Rock Steady Beat!”, most of the tunes featured in this album were written for praising dancehall as if he’d have known this genre was going to rule the dance floors.
Among the tunes in this album, “This Music Got Soul” was the coolest of all and called out the dawn of the Rocksteady era.
This tune had a huge influence on the future developments of Reggae music. |
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CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-505 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-505 |
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| We've Only Just Begun |
| We've Only Just Begun |
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1. Witchita Lineman
2. Ever Constant Sea
3. We've Only Just Begun
4. Theme From " Love Story"
5. Anyone Who Had A Heart
6. Aquarius
7. Evil Ways
8. Shaft
9. Booty Butt
10. Funky Miracle
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Because of his superior talent and intense personality, one of the most ingenious pianists Leslie Butler had a lack of releases, however he was given an exceptional chance by the Federal Records to record this one of the most peculiar albums in the history of Jamaican music.
This beautifully finished Jamaican Jazz Funk/Rare Groove album is mostly constructed with the traditional covers that all Jamaicans will know although with the wonderful arrangement, and very Jamaican, ensemble stripping aesthetics give the album a whole new character that can’t be heard elsewhere.This masterpiece should make it to the shelves of not only reggae fans but soul and jazz fans as well.
Leslie always committed on making a serious piece of music - never liked to make either of Jamaican popular music or business-like commercial music.
He had a strong belief of not letting others to control his talent.
Therefore there were often conflicts between him and producers or he was not even given a chance to record anything at all.
It’s a really sad story, but this unfortunate musician’s lifestyle can be heard on the recordings such as “Guitar In Ernest – Ernest Ranglin (DSR-LP / CD-501)” and “Reggae Rhapsody – Leslie Butler (DSR-FEDS12-001).” Perhaps with this album in addition, it might be all enough. |
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| Product Number: DSR-CD-512 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-512 |
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1. Intensified '68
2. Words
3. A.B.C. Rocksteady
4. If I Only Had Time
5. Chances
6. Starlight
7. Ride Me Donkey
8. Rainbow Valley
9. Love Me Forever
10. Once Upon A Time
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Trinidad born legendary guitarist, Lynn Taitt, who brought the first wave of Rocksteady to the Island, and Gladdy Anderson who is well known for a Skatalites' pianist, they both got together to record this Rocksteady instrumental album 'Glad Sounds' at Federal Studio in 1968.
Released from the Merritone label, which was managed under the Federal.
The album depicts the hay day and best sound of Rocksteady as well as label itself.
First time to be reissued by Dub Store Records.
The forth reissue of the Story Of Federal program by Dub Store Records.
The original UK issue was released on the Big Shot label with a different jacket design.
Album tracks consist mainly of cover versions of popular tracks, which were produced by Coxsone Dodd, Bunny Lee and Sonia Pottinger.
Lynn Taitt and Gladstone Anderson added gentle flavors to their versions by their distinctive instrumental plays.
Also Federal's recording facility made possible to maintain this sound quality.
Certainly, this is another classic album to add to your collection shelf!! |
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CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-504 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-504 |
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| Guitar In Ernest |
| Guitar In Ernest |
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1. Soul De Ern
2. Cherokee
3. Erest's Tune
4. Green Dolphin St.
5. Jordu
6. Ernest's Delight
7. One For Robby
8. Angelima
9. Chow Mein
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Internationally acclaimed guitarist Ernest Ranglin with piano genius Leslie Butler in a dazzling quartet.
Recorded in 1965. |
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CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-501 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-501 |
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| Calypsos Down Jamaica Way |
| Calypsos Down Jamaica Way |
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Calypsos Down Jamaica Way |
1. Goodbye To Rome
2. Go Fife Go
3. Yours
4. Island In The Sun
5. Aye Aye Aye
6. Lawd Some Man Could A Smart
7. Careless Hands
8. The Weed
9. Melody D'Amour
10. Kingston Town
11. Out The Fire
12. The Last Watch
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Crucial recordings of the multifaceted Jamaican Music from the early 1960's.
Funny and sharp, with the catchiest tunes – foundation music to move your feet! |
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CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-502 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-502 |
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| Jamaican Skarama |
| Jamaican Skarama |
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1. My Daily Food
2. I Love You
3. Cry Another Cry
4. My Darling
5. Him Say You Say
6. Word Is Wind
7. Big Brother
8. Take These Chains From My Heart
9. Tell Daddy
10. My Dream
11. One Look
12. There's A Place
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Missing masterpieces of the original Jamaican Ska.
Recorded at the Federal Studio between 1964 to 1965 and released on Ken Khouri's Kentone label. |
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CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-503 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-503 |
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| Cool At The Casa Montego |
| Cool At The Casa Montego |
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1. Uncle Joe
2. Mr. Wonderful
3. Razor Merengue
4. Misty
5. Mother And Wife
6. Let's Fall In Love
7. Cha Cha International
8. Anema De Core
9. T'is Wonderful
10. Take Her To Jamaica
11. Mind Your Own Business
12. I Want To Be Happy
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A masterpiece of Jamaican Jazz recorded in 1960 by the Eric Grant Orchestra, resident band of the Casa Montego Hotel in Montego Bay.
Rhythm & Blues, Jazz standards, Cha Cha Cha, Merengue and Calypso all combine in this wonderful amalgamation of sounds.
Produced by the first Jamaican studio, Federal Records, and its founder Ken Khouri, it is now re-issued for the first time ever |
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CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-507 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-507 |
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| Mod Mod Ranglin |
| Mod Mod Ranglin |
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1. La Bostelle
2. Walk Away
3. More And More Amore
4. Blowing In The Wind
5. Spanish Eyes
6. Archie
7. What Now My Love
8. Lemon Tree
9. You Won't See Me
10. Born Free
11. Felicia
12. Somewhere My Love
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| CD |
CD |
| Product Number: DSR-CD-506 |
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| Product Number: DSR-LP-506 |
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| Cecil Lloyd - A Night in Jamaica with Cecil Lloyd |
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| A Night in Jamaica with Cecil Lloyd |
1. Profile Cha Cha
2. Come Closer To Me
3. Mood For The Tropics
4. Be Mine Tonight
5. Ma Cha Cha
6. S'Wonderful
7. St. Thomas
8. Adios
9. Autumn Leaves
10. Ja Pachamsa
11. Frenesi
12. Rhumbina |
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First ever re-issue of 1965 Jamaican Latin-Calypso-Jazz album by the piano genius Cecil
Lloyd, who led a 20-piece hotel band from the age of seventeen. In 1959, the maestro was
asked to record an album for 20th Century Fox and he later released three albums on
Studio One. Featuring a solid rhythm section with conga and percussion, A Night in Jamaica
was produced by Ken Khouri for Federal's Kentone label. This enduring masterpiece still
echoes across the beautiful Caribbean Sea.
It must be the despair of every experienced musician who has worked long and hard polishing and developing his talent to come upon someone like Cecil Lloyd.
For here is a young pianist whose total professional experience has consisted almost entirely of leading a hotel band in the British West Indies. Yet he has the style, the polish, the assurance and the individuality of a musician who has spent years absorbing and digesting the best examples of popular rhythm, harmony and phrasing. He has, justifiably, been called “the genius of the island of Jamaica”.
The first people who had an opportunity to become aware of the unusual abilities of Cecil Lloyd were the tourists who stopped at the fashionable Tower Isle Hotel in Jamaica. Cecil has been leading his own ten-piece band there since he was seventeen years old. The length of his stay there suggests that his appeal to tourists, who are not always the most musically perceptive people, was strong. Certainly it was evident that his own countrymen caught his message for they came from as far as Kingston, two and a half hours away, just to hear him.
One visitor to the islands was so impressed with Cecil that he decided to do something about him. He was Frank Gaylord, an American who was serving as entertainment director at the Tower Isle Hotel. Gaylord brought Cecil to the attention of 20th Century-Fox Records, showcasing a fascinating new talent, are the result.
It was probably natural that Cecil should come by an interest in music at an early age for his mother had been a student at Juilliard before she married the Rev. A. W. Knott (Cecil’s full name is Cecil Lloyd Knott – he dropped the family name for professional purposes). Cecil was born on March 4, 1936, in Spanish Town, Jamaica, but when he was two the family moved to Port Maria, a small town where his father had been put in charge of a church.
As the minister’s son, Cecil had easy access to the church organ and when he was four he began to try to pick out tunes on it.
“It was one of those organs that you pump with your feet,” he has recalled, “and my feet could just barely get enough wind in the instrument to hold a note for more than five seconds.”
When the family got a piano, Cecil really began to enjoy life. He received his instruction from both his parents (his father, like his mother, played piano and violin). They wanted him to play the violin but Cecil’s leaning to the piano was so obvious that they soon gave in.
“My urge to play the piano was so strong,” Cecil declared recently, “that right now I don’t even know the right way to hold a violin.”
He also had to overcome his mother’s idea that he should study medicine. Cecil did this by the simple process of going to work (without her permission) at the Tower Isle Hotel as soon as he had passed his high school examinations.
If there is any secret to Cecil Lloyd’s special talents it may be that he has consistently started doing what he wanted to do by instinct and later, undeterred by the fact that instinct had apparently let him directly to his goal, he has gone back to shore up his raw skill with special instruction. That was what he did after four months of playing at the hotel. He had found his métier but he still wanted to learn more about what he was doing. So he began taking lessons, this time away from his own home with a versatile Jamaican musician, Miss Brenda Smythe. As a result, he acquired an L.R.S.M., a London degree in music.
And as a band leader, Cecil continue the pattern of driving ahead on his own and then going back to study and fill in the gaps in his knowledge and skill. Wherever he may pursue his studies he may leave more knowledge than he brings away. Meanwhile, however, we have this recorded evidence of the technique of a fascinating new piano stylist.
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Product Number:
DSR-CD-509 |
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Product Number:
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