Jah Children Invasion: Dancehall Classics Vol 2

They Say...

Review by Jo-Ann Greene, All Music Guide

Following hot on the heels of 1983's Vol. 1, the Wackies unleashed Jah Children Invasion: Dancehall Classics Vol. 2 before the year was out. Like its predecessor, this compilation boasts two riddims and ten tracks. Horace Andy introduces the first with his excellent cover of Derrick Harriott's rocksteady hit "Solomon." Producer Lloyd "Bullwackie" Barnes gives the riddim further sparkle for Tristan Palmer's strong cultural offering "Rebel." Patrick Andy, too, delivers lessons in righteousness and survival, the lyrics stronger than his vocals, unlike Maxine Miller, whose smooth delivery should have gone down like a charm with lovers rock fans. And finally, the studio band showcases the "Solomon" riddim in all its glory. Tristan Palmer superbly kicks off the second half of the set with the comforting knowledge that "Jah Is in Charge." Steve Harper, who delivered a strong cultural number on Vol. 1, now showcases his romantic side with "Tender Love," while Anthony Green, another returnee, sticks with culture, bemoaning the state of the world and offering righteous lessons before throwing in the towel, determined to "Leave out a Babylon." DJ Sniper didn't make much impact on the scene, but one can't fault his devotion, and "Hear My Prayer" is one of the most impassioned singjay toasts from the time. The Wackies Rhythm Force's "Dub Version" completes the set, showcasing the superb riddim, a minimalist but still sparkling version of "Love Me Forever." Although its Andy and Palmer who inevitably created this set's cache at the time, it's the forgotten talent that make the compilation so vital and exciting today.