Blackman Know Yourself

One of the founding fathers of reggae, Joe Higgs was a major influence on Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, Desmond Dekker and countless others. In that genre, Higgs commands the type of reverence that Marvin Gaye and Sam Cooke enjoyed in soul. Entering the '90s with Blackman Know Yourself, the prolific Jamaican singer/composer hadn't changed his style much. When other reggae artists were going for high-tech productions and incorporating hip-hop or urban contemporary elements, Higgs stuck with the type of simplicity that had characterized him since the '60s. Joined by the Wailers, Higgs is highly convincing on such gems as "Wave of War," "Small Axe" and "Sons of Garvey." Another one of this CD's high points is a remake of "Stepping Razor," a major hit for Tosh. While Higgs' recordings of the '60s and '70s would be a better introduction to his legacy, Blackman is a most welcome addition to his catalog. ~ Alex Henderson, All Music Guide