Michael Prophet - Gunman (2009)

This 1981 Michael Prophet album, originally released on LP, is an overlooked classic of late roots reggae. Prophet's strong vocals are backed by the formidable Roots Radics studio band, featuring the heavyweight rhythm section of drummer Style Scott and bassist Flabba Holt, and the tracks were mixed by the young dubmaster Scientist at King Tubby's studio. While Prophet's lyrical originality was often outstripped by his vocal skill, resulting in cliché tracks like "Hold on to What You Got" and "Love and Unity," the powerful "elephantine" rhythms of the Roots Radics provided the necessary foundation. On most tracks, the balance between vocal quality, lyrical content, and the deep beats is perfect. Scientist occasionally chose to drop the vocal early, notably on "Hold on to What You Got," filling the space with dubwise effects. Highlights include the chart-topping "Gunman," the incisive "Guide and Protect You" (featuring one of the album's best basslines), and "Upside Down." The program is rounded out by four 12" remixes as a worthwhile bonus, despite their dubwise extensions lacking vocal scraps.

Tracklist:
1-1 Michael Prophet - Hold On To What You Got [3:35]
1-2 Michael Prophet - Guide and Protect You [2:38]
1-3 Michael Prophet - Youthman [3:36]
1-4 Michael Prophet - Gunman [3:44]
1-5 Michael Prophet - Turn Them Around [2:55]
1-6 Michael Prophet - Up Side Down [4:55]
1-7 Michael Prophet - Love and Unity [4:43]
1-8 Michael Prophet - Never Leave Me Lonely [4:18]
1-9 Michael Prophet - Help Them Please [3:21]
1-10 Michael Prophet - Sweet Loving [4:05]
1-11 Michael Prophet - Gun Man 12" Mix [6:52]
1-12 Michael Prophet - Here Comes the Bride (12" Mix) [8:30]
1-13 Michael Prophet - Boom Him Up Now 12" Mix [6:08]
1-14 Michael Prophet - Trouble Nobody 12" Mix [7:51]
1-15 Michael Prophet - Just Talking 12" Mix [5:13]