Greg Fenton reviews Don Letts – The Rebel Dread – Echo Beach
The clue is, as usual, in the title. Don Letts has compiled a series of excellent compilations over the years, as well as contributed his invaluable films and fantastic radio show to the cultural discourse. Always the consummate entertainer with something worth listening to. So far, so good.
Leaning heavily on the Dub side of things, this is another notable selection of music (this time from the label’s back catalogue) featuring fiery tracks that aren’t afraid to deliver surprises. Try the Lee Grooves remix of Echo Beach for beach-time vibes and guitar riff. Alongside several other choice cover versions, from Running Up That Hill to Kraftwerk’s The Robots and The Clash’s Guns Of Brixton, featuring that distinctive bassline.
The playlist is full of positive energy and a prevailing sense of joy, better suited for certain moods and situations rather than others. However, some tracks are hit or miss, depending on personal taste. I’m not so sure about Bowie’s Space Oddity, though – that was always going to be tricky. Very nice versions of Fade To Grey and Baby I Love You So to help mark the label’s 30th anniversary in the meantime. A big number in any case.
Release: September 12
Download/Stream at Juno
Echo Beach
Don Letts
You must be logged in to post a comment.