VA - Sugar Minotts Hidden, Treasures Vol. 2 (2000)

Like its predecessor, this compilation features 20 tracks culled from the vaults of the Black Roots label, through which, in conjunction with his Youth Promotion sound system, Sugar Minott was able to nurture the talents of an impressive number of Kingston ghetto youth. Artists like Musical Youth, Tenor Saw, and Little John got their start at Black Roots, and established singers like Horace Andy and Alton Ellis found their way to Minott's studio as well and did exemplary work there. This fine collection showcases material from all of those artists, as well as singles from some who have remained in obscurity. Highlights include the incongruously bubbly "51 Storm" (which features the nine-year-old Little John in his first recorded performance), Johnny Osbourne's very dread "Rope in Rasta," and the African Brothers' even dreader "Father Lead Us." Fully half of the songs on this album are previously unreleased, making it historically significant as well as solidly enjoyable.~Hidden Treasures, Vol. 2 Review by Rick Anderson