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Studio One Disco Mix combines rarity with familiarity like the best of Soul Jazz's Studio One series. Big names in reggae fill out half of the tracks and more obscure songs coming from lesser artists fill out the rest. The 12" single was pioneered in Jamaica with these extended 12" disco mixes. They are very appropriate for the Studio One series because they include elements of dub, roots reggae, lovers rock, and early dancehall -- all backed by Studio One's famous instrumentals. Most of these tracks open with the original vocal and with the dubbed instrumental following. Willie Williams, Alton Ellis, Dub Specialist, and Jackie Mittoo all have incredible songs on this compilation. The 12" format seems to have allowed reggae artists to take these tracks further than they could on 7" singles. There is definitely more to these 12" versions, with a density to the tracks that makes them stand out in the Studio One catalog. Norma White & Brentford Disco Set's "I Want Your Love" is the best example of a song benefiting from an elaborated, extended version. It's the only "pure" disco song (in the American sense of the word) included on the compilation. It shows the potential of a disco mix with the straightforward chorus being highlighted so well by the dub version. The dub version leaves the chorus in and lets the huge percussion drive the song. "I Want Your Love" may resemble American disco too much for reggae fans, but the way the dub version brings out the drums and hi-hat makes it a classic of either genre. The 12" extended disco mix format is perfect for getting a full view of reggae in its golden age. Soul Jazz is lucky to be able to draw upon such a wealth of rare music that has not been re-released until now. ~ Matt Whalley
