The promotion agency iWelcom, which we know well, is branching out into production with this first release, "Rootscream vol. 1". A compilation in mixtape style that fits 34 tracks onto a single CD, mixed by Dr Dan and Selecta Milky Mike, two selectas from the Paris region who have notably played on Triangle FM.
The cream of roots, quite literally, moves mostly between rocksteady and early reggae, and dwells essentially on the prolific decade of 65-75. The one exception to the rule is Bitty McLean, who opens the selection, as if to underline the modernity of tracks that are nearly all in their forties. Inevitably, the classics are ten a penny: Dennis Brown (Lightning and thunder), the well-known Liquidator by Harry J, Fattie Fattie by the Heptones, or A love I can feel by John Holt.
Essentials that should not mask the soundness of the selection, with a good number of less exposed tracks in a rather well-handled tracklist, such as Freddie McGregor (Stop this world), Winston Jarrett (Why is it), Justin Hinds (Sinners), Ken Boothe (Old fashion way), the Clarendonians (Who laugh last), or Delroy Wilson (Rain from the sky). It is a shame that the booklet holds no more precise information on the versions offered. What remains is a well-turned first volume, resolutely vintage, which calls for more.
