Blood & Fire edition of this album is the one to go for, 23 Sep 2008
I bought this hoping it had some different mixes of the Congos best album, but it seems to have been mastered at a slightly faster speed than the edition on Blood & Fire [which has more & longer tracks]. VP should pay attention to details like that if they want to match the other B&F edition [which also has bonbus tracks included]

This isn't the Blood and Fire edition, is it?, 19 Sep 2008
I'm giving this five stars although, in common with quite a few other reviewers here, I've only heard the release on the Blood and Fire label. That does not seem to be the one being sold here! This one is on the VP label. I haven't heard that one and nor, I would guess, have quite a lot of the reviewers here - maybe even all of them.

It's not unknown for a good album to get good releases and bad releases - whether or not the VP release is a good one I don't know. The Blood and Fire one is a goodie.

The Blood and Fire one has an extra disc - not sure if the VP one does.

So do a bit of research and find out if the VP release is really what you're looking for. Or seek out the Blood and Fire one to be on the safe side.

Pinnacle of human achievement, 17 Nov 2007
Rate alongside Mona Lisa, Ulysses etc. I bought this on vinyl on Go Feet records in about 1982 as a student desperate to get hip to the sounds of reggae, on the basis of a four star review in the NME.
This record is a revelation.It takes you into the beautiful black heart of Rastafari and the harrowing experience of the African diaspora via the poetry of the bible, the otherworldly vocal harmonising of Cedric Myton et al and Lee Perry's miraculous production. It is truly ravishing and without doubt one of the greatest records of all time.

Redeem your Soul. GET THIS!, 08 May 2007
Pardon my being repetitive, but it would be a cardinal sin not to share my opinion.
The praise can't be shouted loud enough. Please believe all the hype you have heard about this one!

'Open (your heart) up (to) the gates of Zion', because the genius that is Mr Lee S. Perry is DEFINITELY in full effect here with The Congos, the Upsetters, and his celestial ensemble of back up singers.

Don't do 'The wrong thing'! Build yourself a 'Solid Foundation'. 'Bring the Mackaback', and revel with brother ants inna 'Noah Sugar Pan'.
If the 'Ark of the Covenant' were music, this CD would definitely be it.

Beg, borrow, steal (or preferably) BUY this Album.

Redeem your soul, justify your existence, and lose yourself in the musical, visionary and artistic FEAST that is the 'Heart of the Congos'

The extra disc of mixes/versions is the cherry on top of a pie so sweet that you risk contracting diabetes.

Big up to 'Blood and Fire Limited' for getting this rarity re-released to one & all.

Ras Small Axe

Higher ground, 29 Apr 2007
I agree with most of the comments and have to add that this album is simply beautiful.
Do not doubt the asking price if you are purchasing, this album will give you years of satisfaction... there is so much enveloped within the sound that every listen brings further awareness and a further appreciation of its beauty. BUY ! then let all you know listen to it too.
The only other comparable album might be Wackies- Horace Andy : Dancehall Style, which isn't " Dancehall " but is a cracker ! Nonetheless, the harmonies and ethereal sound of Heart of the Congos begs to be absorbed and you will be the better for letting this into your life. Pure class and substance. I love this album, hope you do too ( Children Crying is my fave ).

Blood & Fire edition of this album is the one to go for, 23 Sep 2008
I bought this hoping it had some different mixes of the Congos best album, but it seems to have been mastered at a slightly faster speed than the edition on Blood & Fire [which has more & longer tracks]. VP should pay attention to details like that if they want to match the other B&F edition [which also has bonbus tracks included]

This isn't the Blood and Fire edition, is it?, 19 Sep 2008
I'm giving this five stars although, in common with quite a few other reviewers here, I've only heard the release on the Blood and Fire label. That does not seem to be the one being sold here! This one is on the VP label. I haven't heard that one and nor, I would guess, have quite a lot of the reviewers here - maybe even all of them.

It's not unknown for a good album to get good releases and bad releases - whether or not the VP release is a good one I don't know. The Blood and Fire one is a goodie.

The Blood and Fire one has an extra disc - not sure if the VP one does.

So do a bit of research and find out if the VP release is really what you're looking for. Or seek out the Blood and Fire one to be on the safe side.

Pinnacle of human achievement, 17 Nov 2007
Rate alongside Mona Lisa, Ulysses etc. I bought this on vinyl on Go Feet records in about 1982 as a student desperate to get hip to the sounds of reggae, on the basis of a four star review in the NME.
This record is a revelation.It takes you into the beautiful black heart of Rastafari and the harrowing experience of the African diaspora via the poetry of the bible, the otherworldly vocal harmonising of Cedric Myton et al and Lee Perry's miraculous production. It is truly ravishing and without doubt one of the greatest records of all time.

Redeem your Soul. GET THIS!, 08 May 2007
Pardon my being repetitive, but it would be a cardinal sin not to share my opinion.
The praise can't be shouted loud enough. Please believe all the hype you have heard about this one!

'Open (your heart) up (to) the gates of Zion', because the genius that is Mr Lee S. Perry is DEFINITELY in full effect here with The Congos, the Upsetters, and his celestial ensemble of back up singers.

Don't do 'The wrong thing'! Build yourself a 'Solid Foundation'. 'Bring the Mackaback', and revel with brother ants inna 'Noah Sugar Pan'.
If the 'Ark of the Covenant' were music, this CD would definitely be it.

Beg, borrow, steal (or preferably) BUY this Album.

Redeem your soul, justify your existence, and lose yourself in the musical, visionary and artistic FEAST that is the 'Heart of the Congos'

The extra disc of mixes/versions is the cherry on top of a pie so sweet that you risk contracting diabetes.

Big up to 'Blood and Fire Limited' for getting this rarity re-released to one & all.

Ras Small Axe

Higher ground, 29 Apr 2007
I agree with most of the comments and have to add that this album is simply beautiful.
Do not doubt the asking price if you are purchasing, this album will give you years of satisfaction... there is so much enveloped within the sound that every listen brings further awareness and a further appreciation of its beauty. BUY ! then let all you know listen to it too.
The only other comparable album might be Wackies- Horace Andy : Dancehall Style, which isn't " Dancehall " but is a cracker ! Nonetheless, the harmonies and ethereal sound of Heart of the Congos begs to be absorbed and you will be the better for letting this into your life. Pure class and substance. I love this album, hope you do too ( Children Crying is my fave ).

Row Fisherman Row - Keep on rowin' your boat!!, 15 May 2006
On The Congos & Friends "Fisherman Style" double-disc release, many veteran & current reggae artists lend their particular take on the Congos' "Fisherman" tune (from the Lee Perry-produced classic HEART OF THE CONGOS, circa 1977).

The result is an album's worth of many artists singing or deejaying over this track. The album is probably best digested when the listener bites off a little at a time - sitting through this 24-track album in one listen could prove a bit overkill, even for diehard Congos fans.

With that in mind, this Blood & Fire release showcases many fine artists, ranging from the great Max Romeo to the great Big Youth to the great Horace Andy, and so on...you get the idea!!

The first disc highlights the aforementioned great reggae artists (plus greats U ROY, DEAN FRASER, SUGAR MINOTT, DILLINGER, MYKAL ROSE(Black Uhuru), PRINCE JAZZBO, TONY TUFF, & FREDDIE McGREGOR). Max Romeo's "Give Praises" is the standout track w/ praise to the Almighty - he puts his own signature on the tune. Surprisingly, Romeo transforms this classic cut into his own! As always, Horace Andy makes his mark w/ his trademark falsetto voice on "Love Love Love," calling for "...Unity In The City..." Big Youth's "Feed A Nation" is top-notch material! After all these years, Youth can still bring it!! In addition, saxophonist Dean Fraser turns in a beautiful instrumental piece, entitled "Fisherman's Anthem." The remaining CD-1 tracks are above-average offerings.

CD-2 turns the material over to current reggae artists, with the exception of veteran Gregory Issacs. Luciano kicks off the second disc w/ an inspired version, called "Going Home." Lutan Fyah, Early One, Lucan I, and Country Culture all put forth fine efforts. Of Course, Mr. Isaacs can still capture the listener w/ his unigue voice; here, he contributes a fine take, entitled "Spot & Beat The Bank."

"Fisherman Style" represents varied re-workings of the "Fisherman" tune, which is one of regge music's finest tunes. These updated vibes recall the magic of the tune's outstanding production (by Lee Perry) and vocal stylings (by Cedric, Roy & Watty). Clearly, this two-disc set is intended for Congos fans open to the idea of other artists' new interpretations of the song, and, in most cases, the album delivers a great deal of variety surrounding one single brilliant tune!

Blood & Fire edition of this album is the one to go for, 23 Sep 2008
I bought this hoping it had some different mixes of the Congos best album, but it seems to have been mastered at a slightly faster speed than the edition on Blood & Fire [which has more & longer tracks]. VP should pay attention to details like that if they want to match the other B&F edition [which also has bonbus tracks included]

This isn't the Blood and Fire edition, is it?, 19 Sep 2008
I'm giving this five stars although, in common with quite a few other reviewers here, I've only heard the release on the Blood and Fire label. That does not seem to be the one being sold here! This one is on the VP label. I haven't heard that one and nor, I would guess, have quite a lot of the reviewers here - maybe even all of them.

It's not unknown for a good album to get good releases and bad releases - whether or not the VP release is a good one I don't know. The Blood and Fire one is a goodie.

The Blood and Fire one has an extra disc - not sure if the VP one does.

So do a bit of research and find out if the VP release is really what you're looking for. Or seek out the Blood and Fire one to be on the safe side.

Pinnacle of human achievement, 17 Nov 2007
Rate alongside Mona Lisa, Ulysses etc. I bought this on vinyl on Go Feet records in about 1982 as a student desperate to get hip to the sounds of reggae, on the basis of a four star review in the NME.
This record is a revelation.It takes you into the beautiful black heart of Rastafari and the harrowing experience of the African diaspora via the poetry of the bible, the otherworldly vocal harmonising of Cedric Myton et al and Lee Perry's miraculous production. It is truly ravishing and without doubt one of the greatest records of all time.

Redeem your Soul. GET THIS!, 08 May 2007
Pardon my being repetitive, but it would be a cardinal sin not to share my opinion.
The praise can't be shouted loud enough. Please believe all the hype you have heard about this one!

'Open (your heart) up (to) the gates of Zion', because the genius that is Mr Lee S. Perry is DEFINITELY in full effect here with The Congos, the Upsetters, and his celestial ensemble of back up singers.

Don't do 'The wrong thing'! Build yourself a 'Solid Foundation'. 'Bring the Mackaback', and revel with brother ants inna 'Noah Sugar Pan'.
If the 'Ark of the Covenant' were music, this CD would definitely be it.

Beg, borrow, steal (or preferably) BUY this Album.

Redeem your soul, justify your existence, and lose yourself in the musical, visionary and artistic FEAST that is the 'Heart of the Congos'

The extra disc of mixes/versions is the cherry on top of a pie so sweet that you risk contracting diabetes.

Big up to 'Blood and Fire Limited' for getting this rarity re-released to one & all.

Ras Small Axe

Higher ground, 29 Apr 2007
I agree with most of the comments and have to add that this album is simply beautiful.
Do not doubt the asking price if you are purchasing, this album will give you years of satisfaction... there is so much enveloped within the sound that every listen brings further awareness and a further appreciation of its beauty. BUY ! then let all you know listen to it too.
The only other comparable album might be Wackies- Horace Andy : Dancehall Style, which isn't " Dancehall " but is a cracker ! Nonetheless, the harmonies and ethereal sound of Heart of the Congos begs to be absorbed and you will be the better for letting this into your life. Pure class and substance. I love this album, hope you do too ( Children Crying is my fave ).

Row Fisherman Row - Keep on rowin' your boat!!, 15 May 2006
On The Congos & Friends "Fisherman Style" double-disc release, many veteran & current reggae artists lend their particular take on the Congos' "Fisherman" tune (from the Lee Perry-produced classic HEART OF THE CONGOS, circa 1977).

The result is an album's worth of many artists singing or deejaying over this track. The album is probably best digested when the listener bites off a little at a time - sitting through this 24-track album in one listen could prove a bit overkill, even for diehard Congos fans.

With that in mind, this Blood & Fire release showcases many fine artists, ranging from the great Max Romeo to the great Big Youth to the great Horace Andy, and so on...you get the idea!!

The first disc highlights the aforementioned great reggae artists (plus greats U ROY, DEAN FRASER, SUGAR MINOTT, DILLINGER, MYKAL ROSE(Black Uhuru), PRINCE JAZZBO, TONY TUFF, & FREDDIE McGREGOR). Max Romeo's "Give Praises" is the standout track w/ praise to the Almighty - he puts his own signature on the tune. Surprisingly, Romeo transforms this classic cut into his own! As always, Horace Andy makes his mark w/ his trademark falsetto voice on "Love Love Love," calling for "...Unity In The City..." Big Youth's "Feed A Nation" is top-notch material! After all these years, Youth can still bring it!! In addition, saxophonist Dean Fraser turns in a beautiful instrumental piece, entitled "Fisherman's Anthem." The remaining CD-1 tracks are above-average offerings.

CD-2 turns the material over to current reggae artists, with the exception of veteran Gregory Issacs. Luciano kicks off the second disc w/ an inspired version, called "Going Home." Lutan Fyah, Early One, Lucan I, and Country Culture all put forth fine efforts. Of Course, Mr. Isaacs can still capture the listener w/ his unigue voice; here, he contributes a fine take, entitled "Spot & Beat The Bank."

"Fisherman Style" represents varied re-workings of the "Fisherman" tune, which is one of regge music's finest tunes. These updated vibes recall the magic of the tune's outstanding production (by Lee Perry) and vocal stylings (by Cedric, Roy & Watty). Clearly, this two-disc set is intended for Congos fans open to the idea of other artists' new interpretations of the song, and, in most cases, the album delivers a great deal of variety surrounding one single brilliant tune!

Better than heart of congos, 28 Nov 2006
Heart of congos is the congos album that is often spoken about as being a classic or a reggae masterpiece, this album is in my opinion however much better, its quality songs, slick production beautiful harmonies with lyrics and melodies that will get hooked in your mind for days after you listened to it. The sheer slickness of the production is what makes this so enjoyable. I think people just entering the world of reggae and hardcore reggae heads alike will enjoy this.

This roots reggae group debuted in the mid-'70s and recorded three albums--Heart of the Congos, Congos Ashanti, and Face the Music. Yet reggae fans will best recognize their "Row Fisherman Row," a tune that could still strip the deadwood from many of today's rote efforts at reggae piety. But the group vanished from the scene for such a lengthy period that even Rita Marley didn't know who the Congos were in the mid-'90s, when two original members got together and resumed performing. Such are the vagaries of the reggae business. No matter, now their number has swelled to three. Watty Burnett, Cedric Myton, and Roydel Johnson return in full force, demonstrating in this set the durability of the truly gifted, no matter how much time has passed. Working that falsetto-tenor-bass magic and singing from reggae's favorite place--holy ground--the Congos tunnel deep within and come out with strikingly poetic leads and textured harmonies. With Israel Vibration, the Congos, and other vets catching their second wind, reggae's future is no long just in the hands of the young bloods. And that's a good t'ing. --Elena Oumano

Blood & Fire edition of this album is the one to go for, 23 Sep 2008
I bought this hoping it had some different mixes of the Congos best album, but it seems to have been mastered at a slightly faster speed than the edition on Blood & Fire [which has more & longer tracks]. VP should pay attention to details like that if they want to match the other B&F edition [which also has bonbus tracks included]

This isn't the Blood and Fire edition, is it?, 19 Sep 2008
I'm giving this five stars although, in common with quite a few other reviewers here, I've only heard the release on the Blood and Fire label. That does not seem to be the one being sold here! This one is on the VP label. I haven't heard that one and nor, I would guess, have quite a lot of the reviewers here - maybe even all of them.

It's not unknown for a good album to get good releases and bad releases - whether or not the VP release is a good one I don't know. The Blood and Fire one is a goodie.

The Blood and Fire one has an extra disc - not sure if the VP one does.

So do a bit of research and find out if the VP release is really what you're looking for. Or seek out the Blood and Fire one to be on the safe side.

Pinnacle of human achievement, 17 Nov 2007
Rate alongside Mona Lisa, Ulysses etc. I bought this on vinyl on Go Feet records in about 1982 as a student desperate to get hip to the sounds of reggae, on the basis of a four star review in the NME.
This record is a revelation.It takes you into the beautiful black heart of Rastafari and the harrowing experience of the African diaspora via the poetry of the bible, the otherworldly vocal harmonising of Cedric Myton et al and Lee Perry's miraculous production. It is truly ravishing and without doubt one of the greatest records of all time.

Redeem your Soul. GET THIS!, 08 May 2007
Pardon my being repetitive, but it would be a cardinal sin not to share my opinion.
The praise can't be shouted loud enough. Please believe all the hype you have heard about this one!

'Open (your heart) up (to) the gates of Zion', because the genius that is Mr Lee S. Perry is DEFINITELY in full effect here with The Congos, the Upsetters, and his celestial ensemble of back up singers.

Don't do 'The wrong thing'! Build yourself a 'Solid Foundation'. 'Bring the Mackaback', and revel with brother ants inna 'Noah Sugar Pan'.
If the 'Ark of the Covenant' were music, this CD would definitely be it.

Beg, borrow, steal (or preferably) BUY this Album.

Redeem your soul, justify your existence, and lose yourself in the musical, visionary and artistic FEAST that is the 'Heart of the Congos'

The extra disc of mixes/versions is the cherry on top of a pie so sweet that you risk contracting diabetes.

Big up to 'Blood and Fire Limited' for getting this rarity re-released to one & all.

Ras Small Axe

Higher ground, 29 Apr 2007
I agree with most of the comments and have to add that this album is simply beautiful.
Do not doubt the asking price if you are purchasing, this album will give you years of satisfaction... there is so much enveloped within the sound that every listen brings further awareness and a further appreciation of its beauty. BUY ! then let all you know listen to it too.
The only other comparable album might be Wackies- Horace Andy : Dancehall Style, which isn't " Dancehall " but is a cracker ! Nonetheless, the harmonies and ethereal sound of Heart of the Congos begs to be absorbed and you will be the better for letting this into your life. Pure class and substance. I love this album, hope you do too ( Children Crying is my fave ).

Row Fisherman Row - Keep on rowin' your boat!!, 15 May 2006
On The Congos & Friends "Fisherman Style" double-disc release, many veteran & current reggae artists lend their particular take on the Congos' "Fisherman" tune (from the Lee Perry-produced classic HEART OF THE CONGOS, circa 1977).

The result is an album's worth of many artists singing or deejaying over this track. The album is probably best digested when the listener bites off a little at a time - sitting through this 24-track album in one listen could prove a bit overkill, even for diehard Congos fans.

With that in mind, this Blood & Fire release showcases many fine artists, ranging from the great Max Romeo to the great Big Youth to the great Horace Andy, and so on...you get the idea!!

The first disc highlights the aforementioned great reggae artists (plus greats U ROY, DEAN FRASER, SUGAR MINOTT, DILLINGER, MYKAL ROSE(Black Uhuru), PRINCE JAZZBO, TONY TUFF, & FREDDIE McGREGOR). Max Romeo's "Give Praises" is the standout track w/ praise to the Almighty - he puts his own signature on the tune. Surprisingly, Romeo transforms this classic cut into his own! As always, Horace Andy makes his mark w/ his trademark falsetto voice on "Love Love Love," calling for "...Unity In The City..." Big Youth's "Feed A Nation" is top-notch material! After all these years, Youth can still bring it!! In addition, saxophonist Dean Fraser turns in a beautiful instrumental piece, entitled "Fisherman's Anthem." The remaining CD-1 tracks are above-average offerings.

CD-2 turns the material over to current reggae artists, with the exception of veteran Gregory Issacs. Luciano kicks off the second disc w/ an inspired version, called "Going Home." Lutan Fyah, Early One, Lucan I, and Country Culture all put forth fine efforts. Of Course, Mr. Isaacs can still capture the listener w/ his unigue voice; here, he contributes a fine take, entitled "Spot & Beat The Bank."

"Fisherman Style" represents varied re-workings of the "Fisherman" tune, which is one of regge music's finest tunes. These updated vibes recall the magic of the tune's outstanding production (by Lee Perry) and vocal stylings (by Cedric, Roy & Watty). Clearly, this two-disc set is intended for Congos fans open to the idea of other artists' new interpretations of the song, and, in most cases, the album delivers a great deal of variety surrounding one single brilliant tune!

Better than heart of congos, 28 Nov 2006
Heart of congos is the congos album that is often spoken about as being a classic or a reggae masterpiece, this album is in my opinion however much better, its quality songs, slick production beautiful harmonies with lyrics and melodies that will get hooked in your mind for days after you listened to it. The sheer slickness of the production is what makes this so enjoyable. I think people just entering the world of reggae and hardcore reggae heads alike will enjoy this.

Variated and rootsy, 03 Feb 2002
This is not a bad album. It's overall somewhat 'rawer' than the Congos' earlier album 'Natty Dread Rise Again', with an often more prominent bass, and in general a more 'rootsy' sound. Some songs are terrific. I particularly liked 'Arron and Moses' (with great percussion, and musically and vocally well structured) and the nice 'Prophets are Dying'. Other songs are somewhat simpler musically, but are not bad. I do note a differing quality of music however: sometimes the music is working better than on other moments. The first 2 songs e.g. are a bit less variated, to my opinion. What really adds that extra quality to most songs is the original, good-sounding falsetto (-voiced) singing of Cedric Myton. The harmonies are also well chosen.
It's all in all a nice combination of songs.

Blood & Fire edition of this album is the one to go for, 23 Sep 2008
I bought this hoping it had some different mixes of the Congos best album, but it seems to have been mastered at a slightly faster speed than the edition on Blood & Fire [which has more & longer tracks]. VP should pay attention to details like that if they want to match the other B&F edition [which also has bonbus tracks included]

This isn't the Blood and Fire edition, is it?, 19 Sep 2008
I'm giving this five stars although, in common with quite a few other reviewers here, I've only heard the release on the Blood and Fire label. That does not seem to be the one being sold here! This one is on the VP label. I haven't heard that one and nor, I would guess, have quite a lot of the reviewers here - maybe even all of them.

It's not unknown for a good album to get good releases and bad releases - whether or not the VP release is a good one I don't know. The Blood and Fire one is a goodie.

The Blood and Fire one has an extra disc - not sure if the VP one does.

So do a bit of research and find out if the VP release is really what you're looking for. Or seek out the Blood and Fire one to be on the safe side.

Pinnacle of human achievement, 17 Nov 2007
Rate alongside Mona Lisa, Ulysses etc. I bought this on vinyl on Go Feet records in about 1982 as a student desperate to get hip to the sounds of reggae, on the basis of a four star review in the NME.
This record is a revelation.It takes you into the beautiful black heart of Rastafari and the harrowing experience of the African diaspora via the poetry of the bible, the otherworldly vocal harmonising of Cedric Myton et al and Lee Perry's miraculous production. It is truly ravishing and without doubt one of the greatest records of all time.

Redeem your Soul. GET THIS!, 08 May 2007
Pardon my being repetitive, but it would be a cardinal sin not to share my opinion.
The praise can't be shouted loud enough. Please believe all the hype you have heard about this one!

'Open (your heart) up (to) the gates of Zion', because the genius that is Mr Lee S. Perry is DEFINITELY in full effect here with The Congos, the Upsetters, and his celestial ensemble of back up singers.

Don't do 'The wrong thing'! Build yourself a 'Solid Foundation'. 'Bring the Mackaback', and revel with brother ants inna 'Noah Sugar Pan'.
If the 'Ark of the Covenant' were music, this CD would definitely be it.

Beg, borrow, steal (or preferably) BUY this Album.

Redeem your soul, justify your existence, and lose yourself in the musical, visionary and artistic FEAST that is the 'Heart of the Congos'

The extra disc of mixes/versions is the cherry on top of a pie so sweet that you risk contracting diabetes.

Big up to 'Blood and Fire Limited' for getting this rarity re-released to one & all.

Ras Small Axe

Higher ground, 29 Apr 2007
I agree with most of the comments and have to add that this album is simply beautiful.
Do not doubt the asking price if you are purchasing, this album will give you years of satisfaction... there is so much enveloped within the sound that every listen brings further awareness and a further appreciation of its beauty. BUY ! then let all you know listen to it too.
The only other comparable album might be Wackies- Horace Andy : Dancehall Style, which isn't " Dancehall " but is a cracker ! Nonetheless, the harmonies and ethereal sound of Heart of the Congos begs to be absorbed and you will be the better for letting this into your life. Pure class and substance. I love this album, hope you do too ( Children Crying is my fave ).

Row Fisherman Row - Keep on rowin' your boat!!, 15 May 2006
On The Congos & Friends "Fisherman Style" double-disc release, many veteran & current reggae artists lend their particular take on the Congos' "Fisherman" tune (from the Lee Perry-produced classic HEART OF THE CONGOS, circa 1977).

The result is an album's worth of many artists singing or deejaying over this track. The album is probably best digested when the listener bites off a little at a time - sitting through this 24-track album in one listen could prove a bit overkill, even for diehard Congos fans.

With that in mind, this Blood & Fire release showcases many fine artists, ranging from the great Max Romeo to the great Big Youth to the great Horace Andy, and so on...you get the idea!!

The first disc highlights the aforementioned great reggae artists (plus greats U ROY, DEAN FRASER, SUGAR MINOTT, DILLINGER, MYKAL ROSE(Black Uhuru), PRINCE JAZZBO, TONY TUFF, & FREDDIE McGREGOR). Max Romeo's "Give Praises" is the standout track w/ praise to the Almighty - he puts his own signature on the tune. Surprisingly, Romeo transforms this classic cut into his own! As always, Horace Andy makes his mark w/ his trademark falsetto voice on "Love Love Love," calling for "...Unity In The City..." Big Youth's "Feed A Nation" is top-notch material! After all these years, Youth can still bring it!! In addition, saxophonist Dean Fraser turns in a beautiful instrumental piece, entitled "Fisherman's Anthem." The remaining CD-1 tracks are above-average offerings.

CD-2 turns the material over to current reggae artists, with the exception of veteran Gregory Issacs. Luciano kicks off the second disc w/ an inspired version, called "Going Home." Lutan Fyah, Early One, Lucan I, and Country Culture all put forth fine efforts. Of Course, Mr. Isaacs can still capture the listener w/ his unigue voice; here, he contributes a fine take, entitled "Spot & Beat The Bank."

"Fisherman Style" represents varied re-workings of the "Fisherman" tune, which is one of regge music's finest tunes. These updated vibes recall the magic of the tune's outstanding production (by Lee Perry) and vocal stylings (by Cedric, Roy & Watty). Clearly, this two-disc set is intended for Congos fans open to the idea of other artists' new interpretations of the song, and, in most cases, the album delivers a great deal of variety surrounding one single brilliant tune!

Better than heart of congos, 28 Nov 2006
Heart of congos is the congos album that is often spoken about as being a classic or a reggae masterpiece, this album is in my opinion however much better, its quality songs, slick production beautiful harmonies with lyrics and melodies that will get hooked in your mind for days after you listened to it. The sheer slickness of the production is what makes this so enjoyable. I think people just entering the world of reggae and hardcore reggae heads alike will enjoy this.

Variated and rootsy, 03 Feb 2002
This is not a bad album. It's overall somewhat 'rawer' than the Congos' earlier album 'Natty Dread Rise Again', with an often more prominent bass, and in general a more 'rootsy' sound. Some songs are terrific. I particularly liked 'Arron and Moses' (with great percussion, and musically and vocally well structured) and the nice 'Prophets are Dying'. Other songs are somewhat simpler musically, but are not bad. I do note a differing quality of music however: sometimes the music is working better than on other moments. The first 2 songs e.g. are a bit less variated, to my opinion. What really adds that extra quality to most songs is the original, good-sounding falsetto (-voiced) singing of Cedric Myton. The harmonies are also well chosen.
It's all in all a nice combination of songs.

The Kid, The King, 22 Feb 2006
Kid Congo, once a memeber of proto-punks THE GUN CLUB and a close confidante of Nick cave for many years, has certainly come into his own with the Pink Monkey Birds. This is a wonderful record, one that demonstrates not just his versatility(check out his electronica project Kid and Khan)but his complete and utter genius.

Blood & Fire edition of this album is the one to go for, 23 Sep 2008
I bought this hoping it had some different mixes of the Congos best album, but it seems to have been mastered at a slightly faster speed than the edition on Blood & Fire [which has more & longer tracks]. VP should pay attention to details like that if they want to match the other B&F edition [which also has bonbus tracks included]

This isn't the Blood and Fire edition, is it?, 19 Sep 2008
I'm giving this five stars although, in common with quite a few other reviewers here, I've only heard the release on the Blood and Fire label. That does not seem to be the one being sold here! This one is on the VP label. I haven't heard that one and nor, I would guess, have quite a lot of the reviewers here - maybe even all of them.

It's not unknown for a good album to get good releases and bad releases - whether or not the VP release is a good one I don't know. The Blood and Fire one is a goodie.

The Blood and Fire one has an extra disc - not sure if the VP one does.

So do a bit of research and find out if the VP release is really what you're looking for. Or seek out the Blood and Fire one to be on the safe side.

Pinnacle of human achievement, 17 Nov 2007
Rate alongside Mona Lisa, Ulysses etc. I bought this on vinyl on Go Feet records in about 1982 as a student desperate to get hip to the sounds of reggae, on the basis of a four star review in the NME.
This record is a revelation.It takes you into the beautiful black heart of Rastafari and the harrowing experience of the African diaspora via the poetry of the bible, the otherworldly vocal harmonising of Cedric Myton et al and Lee Perry's miraculous production. It is truly ravishing and without doubt one of the greatest records of all time.

Redeem your Soul. GET THIS!, 08 May 2007
Pardon my being repetitive, but it would be a cardinal sin not to share my opinion.
The praise can't be shouted loud enough. Please believe all the hype you have heard about this one!

'Open (your heart) up (to) the gates of Zion', because the genius that is Mr Lee S. Perry is DEFINITELY in full effect here with The Congos, the Upsetters, and his celestial ensemble of back up singers.

Don't do 'The wrong thing'! Build yourself a 'Solid Foundation'. 'Bring the Mackaback', and revel with brother ants inna 'Noah Sugar Pan'.
If the 'Ark of the Covenant' were music, this CD would definitely be it.

Beg, borrow, steal (or preferably) BUY this Album.

Redeem your soul, justify your existence, and lose yourself in the musical, visionary and artistic FEAST that is the 'Heart of the Congos'

The extra disc of mixes/versions is the cherry on top of a pie so sweet that you risk contracting diabetes.

Big up to 'Blood and Fire Limited' for getting this rarity re-released to one & all.

Ras Small Axe

Higher ground, 29 Apr 2007
I agree with most of the comments and have to add that this album is simply beautiful.
Do not doubt the asking price if you are purchasing, this album will give you years of satisfaction... there is so much enveloped within the sound that every listen brings further awareness and a further appreciation of its beauty. BUY ! then let all you know listen to it too.
The only other comparable album might be Wackies- Horace Andy : Dancehall Style, which isn't " Dancehall " but is a cracker ! Nonetheless, the harmonies and ethereal sound of Heart of the Congos begs to be absorbed and you will be the better for letting this into your life. Pure class and substance. I love this album, hope you do too ( Children Crying is my fave ).

Row Fisherman Row - Keep on rowin' your boat!!, 15 May 2006
On The Congos & Friends "Fisherman Style" double-disc release, many veteran & current reggae artists lend their particular take on the Congos' "Fisherman" tune (from the Lee Perry-produced classic HEART OF THE CONGOS, circa 1977).

The result is an album's worth of many artists singing or deejaying over this track. The album is probably best digested when the listener bites off a little at a time - sitting through this 24-track album in one listen could prove a bit overkill, even for diehard Congos fans.

With that in mind, this Blood & Fire release showcases many fine artists, ranging from the great Max Romeo to the great Big Youth to the great Horace Andy, and so on...you get the idea!!

The first disc highlights the aforementioned great reggae artists (plus greats U ROY, DEAN FRASER, SUGAR MINOTT, DILLINGER, MYKAL ROSE(Black Uhuru), PRINCE JAZZBO, TONY TUFF, & FREDDIE McGREGOR). Max Romeo's "Give Praises" is the standout track w/ praise to the Almighty - he puts his own signature on the tune. Surprisingly, Romeo transforms this classic cut into his own! As always, Horace Andy makes his mark w/ his trademark falsetto voice on "Love Love Love," calling for "...Unity In The City..." Big Youth's "Feed A Nation" is top-notch material! After all these years, Youth can still bring it!! In addition, saxophonist Dean Fraser turns in a beautiful instrumental piece, entitled "Fisherman's Anthem." The remaining CD-1 tracks are above-average offerings.

CD-2 turns the material over to current reggae artists, with the exception of veteran Gregory Issacs. Luciano kicks off the second disc w/ an inspired version, called "Going Home." Lutan Fyah, Early One, Lucan I, and Country Culture all put forth fine efforts. Of Course, Mr. Isaacs can still capture the listener w/ his unigue voice; here, he contributes a fine take, entitled "Spot & Beat The Bank."

"Fisherman Style" represents varied re-workings of the "Fisherman" tune, which is one of regge music's finest tunes. These updated vibes recall the magic of the tune's outstanding production (by Lee Perry) and vocal stylings (by Cedric, Roy & Watty). Clearly, this two-disc set is intended for Congos fans open to the idea of other artists' new interpretations of the song, and, in most cases, the album delivers a great deal of variety surrounding one single brilliant tune!

Better than heart of congos, 28 Nov 2006
Heart of congos is the congos album that is often spoken about as being a classic or a reggae masterpiece, this album is in my opinion however much better, its quality songs, slick production beautiful harmonies with lyrics and melodies that will get hooked in your mind for days after you listened to it. The sheer slickness of the production is what makes this so enjoyable. I think people just entering the world of reggae and hardcore reggae heads alike will enjoy this.

Variated and rootsy, 03 Feb 2002
This is not a bad album. It's overall somewhat 'rawer' than the Congos' earlier album 'Natty Dread Rise Again', with an often more prominent bass, and in general a more 'rootsy' sound. Some songs are terrific. I particularly liked 'Arron and Moses' (with great percussion, and musically and vocally well structured) and the nice 'Prophets are Dying'. Other songs are somewhat simpler musically, but are not bad. I do note a differing quality of music however: sometimes the music is working better than on other moments. The first 2 songs e.g. are a bit less variated, to my opinion. What really adds that extra quality to most songs is the original, good-sounding falsetto (-voiced) singing of Cedric Myton. The harmonies are also well chosen.
It's all in all a nice combination of songs.

The Kid, The King, 22 Feb 2006
Kid Congo, once a memeber of proto-punks THE GUN CLUB and a close confidante of Nick cave for many years, has certainly come into his own with the Pink Monkey Birds. This is a wonderful record, one that demonstrates not just his versatility(check out his electronica project Kid and Khan)but his complete and utter genius.

Row Fisherman Row - Keep on rowin' your boat!!, 15 May 2006
On The Congos & Friends "Fisherman Style" double-disc release, many veteran & current reggae artists lend their particular take on the Congos' "Fisherman" tune (from the Lee Perry-produced classic HEART OF THE CONGOS, circa 1977).

The result is an album's worth of many artists singing or deejaying over this track. The album is probably best digested when the listener bites off a little at a time - sitting through this 24-track album in one listen could prove a bit overkill, even for diehard Congos fans.

With that in mind, this Blood & Fire release showcases many fine artists, ranging from the great Max Romeo to the great Big Youth to the great Horace Andy, and so on...you get the idea!!

The first disc highlights the aforementioned great reggae artists (plus greats U ROY, DEAN FRASER, SUGAR MINOTT, DILLINGER, MYKAL ROSE(Black Uhuru), PRINCE JAZZBO, TONY TUFF, & FREDDIE McGREGOR). Max Romeo's "Give Praises" is the standout track w/ praise to the Almighty - he puts his own signature on the tune. Surprisingly, Romeo transforms this classic cut into his own! As always, Horace Andy makes his mark w/ his trademark falsetto voice on "Love Love Love," calling for "...Unity In The City..." Big Youth's "Feed A Nation" is top-notch material! After all these years, Youth can still bring it!! In addition, saxophonist Dean Fraser turns in a beautiful instrumental piece, entitled "Fisherman's Anthem." The remaining CD-1 tracks are above-average offerings.

CD-2 turns the material over to current reggae artists, with the exception of veteran Gregory Issacs. Luciano kicks off the second disc w/ an inspired version, called "Going Home." Lutan Fyah, Early One, Lucan I, and Country Culture all put forth fine efforts. Of Course, Mr. Isaacs can still capture the listener w/ his unigue voice; here, he contributes a fine take, entitled "Spot & Beat The Bank."

"Fisherman Style" represents varied re-workings of the "Fisherman" tune, which is one of regge music's finest tunes. These updated vibes recall the magic of the tune's outstanding production (by Lee Perry) and vocal stylings (by Cedric, Roy & Watty). Clearly, this two-disc set is intended for Congos fans open to the idea of other artists' new interpretations of the song, and, in most cases, the album delivers a great deal of variety surrounding one single brilliant tune!