This album was originally released in the UK under the title Showcase, signifying its format: in reggae parlance, a “showcase” mix is an extended version of a song in which the dub remix is appended seamlessly onto the original vocal version, resulting in a track that may be as long as eight or nine minutes. This is a collection of 1970s singles by the great harmony trio Black Uhuru, all mixed in showcase style, and demonstrating the band’s dark and heavy sound. Song titles like “General Penitentiary,” “Abortion,” and “Plastic Smile” (“Don’t show I your teeth/Plastic smile can’t work”) do not mislead. And the acerbic, keening blend of Michael Rose, Duckie Simpson, and Puma Jones’ voices created one of the most distinctive sounds of the roots reggae era.

– Rick Anderson