Review - Various Artists "Reality Shock Volume 1"

Reality Shock Records, known for their rootical releases, delivered a fresh roots reggae CD in late 2008 featuring 16 crucial UK roots tunes, all vocals, no dubs. Will there be an additional dub album be released some day? Wouldn't be the worst idea.

Responsible for the riddims is the label's mastermin Kris Kemist who keeps it strictly  in the Jamaican tradition, no digital tunes can be found here (well, they don't sound digital, you know what I mean). The sound quality is good, no wonder if you see who mastered the tunes: Russ Disciple, Mafia & Fluxy or Gussi P., just to name some.

The featured vocalists also represent a fine selection. You get some of the big UK roots heroes like Earl 16, Errol Bellot, Macka B, Dixie Peach or African Simba. And many more. Most of the tunes are unknown to me, only a few have been taken from previous vinyl releases, for example "Free Up The Herbs" and "War". Other riddims are new versions of popular classic Jamaican riddims. As usual, don't ask me for names, please.

For a stepper addict like me, this release offers only few tunes ("I Believe", "Better Way", "Rise Up"), the other tunes are strictly one drop rootical style. This and the missing dubs are the reason,  why I only give "3" stars this time. I'm waiting for "Reality Shock Volume 1 in Dub".

If you like your reggae rootsy and you like dem vocals, then there's hardly a chance to miss this album. Then it should definitely be in your collection. If you want dubs or steppers, you might want to look elsewhere.

You can buy this album at the usual places or directly from the label.

Tracklist: