The nearly four hours of astounding music encoded on these three discs merely scratch the surface of the highly personal sonic universe created by this legendarily eccentric, yet ridiculously prolific, dub-reggae producer. It's still the best source of entry into Lee "Scratch" Perry's world, though, a place defined by homemade avant-garde production techniques applied to the wittiest, angriest, sexiest, and most soulful reggae tunes ever written. Perry was born in 1936, and his career spans the history of Jamaican music. These 52 tracks, however, derive mainly from the late 1970s, when he was at the height of his considerable powers and recording hits like Max Romeo's "War in a Babylon" and Junior Murvin's "Police and Thieves" for Island. Helpfully annotated, with a healthy handful of unreleased tracks, Arkology is a beginner's banquet of tracks that sound increasingly deep, daring, and downright frightening as the depth of Perry's talent is plumbed. --Richard Gehr

You like Lee Perry, and do not have this album? , 08 Jul 2006
JUST BUY IT - This IS HIS BEST album/compilation, all things considered. Yes there are some 'big' tracks missing so your quest in finalising your collection is probably not yet over.

If you have not heard any/much of Lee Perry's work this album just about sums him up, this is some (even most, dare i say it, ok allot) of his finest works all wrapped up into three disks. If you do not like it after having listened to it, then leave this Artist (and his 'friends') well alone - forever.

If you have the odd album and think hes poo, There is allot of 'junk' out there!! These are other albums of 'his/friends' I would also rate highly:

The Heptones - Party Time
The Congo's
Open the Gate/Build the Ark - Lee Perry & Friends
Junior Murvin - Police and Thieves
Scratch Attack (2 solid albums in 1)
The Upsetters 'Super Ape'
George Faith - To be a Lover, Max Romeo and others.

This album has a good array of tracks/versions from many of the albums listed above so buy this one and go from there, and save yourself a small fortune in the process.

It is of course all a matter of personal choice. You decide.

Return of the ape man, 08 Jan 2005
Along with the brilliant King Tubby, Sscratch must lay claim to being one of the most influencial persons of the whole Reggae, Ska, Dub, Rocksteady thing. This album highlights the essense of the man. A man who smoked so much Ganja that he burnt down his own studio in a fit of paranoia.
The only perceived weakness could be the repeativeness of the tracks, however this reflects upon the scene surrounding the soundsystems of Jamaica, and not scratch's ability to produce original material (and original his material was).
A personal favorite song is Roots Train by Dillinger, which climaxes in what would now be called a rap, and gives us a tangible link to modern day music. However the songs aim is to highlight the plight of the Rasta, who suffered in a Jamaica where Ganja was illegal.
All in all an exception introduction to the world of Dub Reggae and more than that it highlights that Reggae exists, moreover is waiting to be discovered, beyond its figurehead Bob Marley.

Give Thanks & Praise for the Dub Shepherd!!!, 24 Jun 2003
I only give 5 stars to utter classics like Perry's Blackboard Jungle Dub or Pablo & Tubby's 'Meets Rockers Uptown' and this compilation contains some comparable and seminal work from the Black Ark era.

Diverse influences and musical innovation mean that Jamaican music, Ska, Roots, Dub, etc has in turn had an influence upon the likes of soul, rap, techno and other diverse genres that is hard to overstate. Perry was at the forefront of the 'Dub' era in the 70s using drum machines before anyone else and creating sounds (upon a two-track tape deck) the likes of which had never been heard before. His distinctive sound, e.g. his 'flying hi-hat' set him apart from other producers in a fiercely competitive market and he worked with all of the best Jamaican artists e.g Bob Marley, Max Romeo, The Meditations, The Mighty Diamonds, Junior Murvin, the list goes on.

Never mind that there are some 'fillers' here (though perhaps not as far as hardcore fans are concerned), the genius of the man is well in evidence and there are enough classics to make it well worth the price for any Reggae newbies: Life Is Not Easy - The Meditations, War Ina Babylon - Max Romeo, Chase the Devil - Max Romeo (sampled by the Prodigy!), Police & Thieves - Junior Murvin.

In addition there are plenty of tracks that will make you bounce or just stop and listen: One Step Forward - Max Romeo, Dub Revolution, Pt. 1, Why Must I [Version] - The Heptones, Vibrate On - Augustus Pablo.

As one reviewer points out this concentrates on the late 70s Black Ark work and doesn't overlap with other compilations. It's a well-thumbed and well-loved part of my collection and I can't recommend it highly enough.

it hasnt stopped me getting hangovers, funny that, 26 Mar 2003
i bought this because i didnt have any reggae to speak of, it seemed an interesting place to start. Sadly (?) i only listen to it now when i have a hangover, on a sunny day. The fact that this is not very often probably has more to do with lack of scottish sun than a lack of beer. I just found that i have not got to know it very well, there is a lot here but it becomes rather repetetive over 3 CDs and there was not enough that jumped out and pulled me in. I went back to my U2 and sigur ros. Perhaps i will try again sometime. Amusing to hear the original of the prodigy song out of space though.

Excellent selection and beautifully mastered, 22 Jan 2002
The definitive Lee Perry selection, filled with the best of his production for other artists and his own output. Worth it alone almost for the quality of the remastering of the Roast Fish & Cornbread tunes as the only available release of this album sounds as though it was mastered from a record left behind a radiator for 20 years.

You like Lee Perry, and do not have this album? , 08 Jul 2006
JUST BUY IT - This IS HIS BEST album/compilation, all things considered. Yes there are some 'big' tracks missing so your quest in finalising your collection is probably not yet over.

If you have not heard any/much of Lee Perry's work this album just about sums him up, this is some (even most, dare i say it, ok allot) of his finest works all wrapped up into three disks. If you do not like it after having listened to it, then leave this Artist (and his 'friends') well alone - forever.

If you have the odd album and think hes poo, There is allot of 'junk' out there!! These are other albums of 'his/friends' I would also rate highly:

The Heptones - Party Time
The Congo's
Open the Gate/Build the Ark - Lee Perry & Friends
Junior Murvin - Police and Thieves
Scratch Attack (2 solid albums in 1)
The Upsetters 'Super Ape'
George Faith - To be a Lover, Max Romeo and others.

This album has a good array of tracks/versions from many of the albums listed above so buy this one and go from there, and save yourself a small fortune in the process.

It is of course all a matter of personal choice. You decide.

Return of the ape man, 08 Jan 2005
Along with the brilliant King Tubby, Sscratch must lay claim to being one of the most influencial persons of the whole Reggae, Ska, Dub, Rocksteady thing. This album highlights the essense of the man. A man who smoked so much Ganja that he burnt down his own studio in a fit of paranoia.
The only perceived weakness could be the repeativeness of the tracks, however this reflects upon the scene surrounding the soundsystems of Jamaica, and not scratch's ability to produce original material (and original his material was).
A personal favorite song is Roots Train by Dillinger, which climaxes in what would now be called a rap, and gives us a tangible link to modern day music. However the songs aim is to highlight the plight of the Rasta, who suffered in a Jamaica where Ganja was illegal.
All in all an exception introduction to the world of Dub Reggae and more than that it highlights that Reggae exists, moreover is waiting to be discovered, beyond its figurehead Bob Marley.

Give Thanks & Praise for the Dub Shepherd!!!, 24 Jun 2003
I only give 5 stars to utter classics like Perry's Blackboard Jungle Dub or Pablo & Tubby's 'Meets Rockers Uptown' and this compilation contains some comparable and seminal work from the Black Ark era.

Diverse influences and musical innovation mean that Jamaican music, Ska, Roots, Dub, etc has in turn had an influence upon the likes of soul, rap, techno and other diverse genres that is hard to overstate. Perry was at the forefront of the 'Dub' era in the 70s using drum machines before anyone else and creating sounds (upon a two-track tape deck) the likes of which had never been heard before. His distinctive sound, e.g. his 'flying hi-hat' set him apart from other producers in a fiercely competitive market and he worked with all of the best Jamaican artists e.g Bob Marley, Max Romeo, The Meditations, The Mighty Diamonds, Junior Murvin, the list goes on.

Never mind that there are some 'fillers' here (though perhaps not as far as hardcore fans are concerned), the genius of the man is well in evidence and there are enough classics to make it well worth the price for any Reggae newbies: Life Is Not Easy - The Meditations, War Ina Babylon - Max Romeo, Chase the Devil - Max Romeo (sampled by the Prodigy!), Police & Thieves - Junior Murvin.

In addition there are plenty of tracks that will make you bounce or just stop and listen: One Step Forward - Max Romeo, Dub Revolution, Pt. 1, Why Must I [Version] - The Heptones, Vibrate On - Augustus Pablo.

As one reviewer points out this concentrates on the late 70s Black Ark work and doesn't overlap with other compilations. It's a well-thumbed and well-loved part of my collection and I can't recommend it highly enough.

it hasnt stopped me getting hangovers, funny that, 26 Mar 2003
i bought this because i didnt have any reggae to speak of, it seemed an interesting place to start. Sadly (?) i only listen to it now when i have a hangover, on a sunny day. The fact that this is not very often probably has more to do with lack of scottish sun than a lack of beer. I just found that i have not got to know it very well, there is a lot here but it becomes rather repetetive over 3 CDs and there was not enough that jumped out and pulled me in. I went back to my U2 and sigur ros. Perhaps i will try again sometime. Amusing to hear the original of the prodigy song out of space though.

Excellent selection and beautifully mastered, 22 Jan 2002
The definitive Lee Perry selection, filled with the best of his production for other artists and his own output. Worth it alone almost for the quality of the remastering of the Roast Fish & Cornbread tunes as the only available release of this album sounds as though it was mastered from a record left behind a radiator for 20 years.

Lee Perry: Pretty Amazing Really., 15 Jun 2003
The first Perry I heard. Simply knocked me off my feet. Although only the tip of the iceberg from Scratch but it's still better than any other kind of music I have ever heard. It stopped me from buying anything else and rightly so.

I am an alien from outer space, living in a briefcase, 11 Jun 2001
Really, for post-Black Ark Scratch, it doesn't get any better than this. The current Station Underground Report is a pale imitation of the often quite lucidly bonkers narrative on here (if that makes any sense). Sure, it's heavily dancehall-influenced, which is going to upset purists, but if the title track doesn't make you bob and weave around your front room, you have no soul.

IT is a different way,when he is scratching his voice, 20 Mar 2001
Okay ,no hard feelings(no,realy ) but i'm just a newcomer of perry's stuff . Even though i dislike regae(that's the way i was burn and rased...jazz and pink floyd) i'll express some of my happieness and brightness feeling from listening to the "secret laboratory",and the master got some secret one -that's for sure ..... I liked the connection between him and the african rechargeble tunes -he is going on and on around a model of an 80's electric stracture , and his bright comes ofcourse-from the scratchy yet lovely voice of this great artist . As for my own secret c.d. collection,well,it is lovely to find such type of "frank sinatra"... rare combination of talent,creativaty,charm,and probably much more .

More from the Upsetter, but no 'Millionare Liquidator', 05 Jan 2001
Another outing for Lee Scratch Perry, with good tracks, but not his best of this period. While newcomers to his work may like it, older fans of his work may be a little dissapointed. Still, surreal and fun... Can't be bad.

You like Lee Perry, and do not have this album? , 08 Jul 2006
JUST BUY IT - This IS HIS BEST album/compilation, all things considered. Yes there are some 'big' tracks missing so your quest in finalising your collection is probably not yet over.

If you have not heard any/much of Lee Perry's work this album just about sums him up, this is some (even most, dare i say it, ok allot) of his finest works all wrapped up into three disks. If you do not like it after having listened to it, then leave this Artist (and his 'friends') well alone - forever.

If you have the odd album and think hes poo, There is allot of 'junk' out there!! These are other albums of 'his/friends' I would also rate highly:

The Heptones - Party Time
The Congo's
Open the Gate/Build the Ark - Lee Perry & Friends
Junior Murvin - Police and Thieves
Scratch Attack (2 solid albums in 1)
The Upsetters 'Super Ape'
George Faith - To be a Lover, Max Romeo and others.

This album has a good array of tracks/versions from many of the albums listed above so buy this one and go from there, and save yourself a small fortune in the process.

It is of course all a matter of personal choice. You decide.

Return of the ape man, 08 Jan 2005
Along with the brilliant King Tubby, Sscratch must lay claim to being one of the most influencial persons of the whole Reggae, Ska, Dub, Rocksteady thing. This album highlights the essense of the man. A man who smoked so much Ganja that he burnt down his own studio in a fit of paranoia.
The only perceived weakness could be the repeativeness of the tracks, however this reflects upon the scene surrounding the soundsystems of Jamaica, and not scratch's ability to produce original material (and original his material was).
A personal favorite song is Roots Train by Dillinger, which climaxes in what would now be called a rap, and gives us a tangible link to modern day music. However the songs aim is to highlight the plight of the Rasta, who suffered in a Jamaica where Ganja was illegal.
All in all an exception introduction to the world of Dub Reggae and more than that it highlights that Reggae exists, moreover is waiting to be discovered, beyond its figurehead Bob Marley.

Give Thanks & Praise for the Dub Shepherd!!!, 24 Jun 2003
I only give 5 stars to utter classics like Perry's Blackboard Jungle Dub or Pablo & Tubby's 'Meets Rockers Uptown' and this compilation contains some comparable and seminal work from the Black Ark era.

Diverse influences and musical innovation mean that Jamaican music, Ska, Roots, Dub, etc has in turn had an influence upon the likes of soul, rap, techno and other diverse genres that is hard to overstate. Perry was at the forefront of the 'Dub' era in the 70s using drum machines before anyone else and creating sounds (upon a two-track tape deck) the likes of which had never been heard before. His distinctive sound, e.g. his 'flying hi-hat' set him apart from other producers in a fiercely competitive market and he worked with all of the best Jamaican artists e.g Bob Marley, Max Romeo, The Meditations, The Mighty Diamonds, Junior Murvin, the list goes on.

Never mind that there are some 'fillers' here (though perhaps not as far as hardcore fans are concerned), the genius of the man is well in evidence and there are enough classics to make it well worth the price for any Reggae newbies: Life Is Not Easy - The Meditations, War Ina Babylon - Max Romeo, Chase the Devil - Max Romeo (sampled by the Prodigy!), Police & Thieves - Junior Murvin.

In addition there are plenty of tracks that will make you bounce or just stop and listen: One Step Forward - Max Romeo, Dub Revolution, Pt. 1, Why Must I [Version] - The Heptones, Vibrate On - Augustus Pablo.

As one reviewer points out this concentrates on the late 70s Black Ark work and doesn't overlap with other compilations. It's a well-thumbed and well-loved part of my collection and I can't recommend it highly enough.

it hasnt stopped me getting hangovers, funny that, 26 Mar 2003
i bought this because i didnt have any reggae to speak of, it seemed an interesting place to start. Sadly (?) i only listen to it now when i have a hangover, on a sunny day. The fact that this is not very often probably has more to do with lack of scottish sun than a lack of beer. I just found that i have not got to know it very well, there is a lot here but it becomes rather repetetive over 3 CDs and there was not enough that jumped out and pulled me in. I went back to my U2 and sigur ros. Perhaps i will try again sometime. Amusing to hear the original of the prodigy song out of space though.

Excellent selection and beautifully mastered, 22 Jan 2002
The definitive Lee Perry selection, filled with the best of his production for other artists and his own output. Worth it alone almost for the quality of the remastering of the Roast Fish & Cornbread tunes as the only available release of this album sounds as though it was mastered from a record left behind a radiator for 20 years.

Lee Perry: Pretty Amazing Really., 15 Jun 2003
The first Perry I heard. Simply knocked me off my feet. Although only the tip of the iceberg from Scratch but it's still better than any other kind of music I have ever heard. It stopped me from buying anything else and rightly so.

I am an alien from outer space, living in a briefcase, 11 Jun 2001
Really, for post-Black Ark Scratch, it doesn't get any better than this. The current Station Underground Report is a pale imitation of the often quite lucidly bonkers narrative on here (if that makes any sense). Sure, it's heavily dancehall-influenced, which is going to upset purists, but if the title track doesn't make you bob and weave around your front room, you have no soul.

IT is a different way,when he is scratching his voice, 20 Mar 2001
Okay ,no hard feelings(no,realy ) but i'm just a newcomer of perry's stuff . Even though i dislike regae(that's the way i was burn and rased...jazz and pink floyd) i'll express some of my happieness and brightness feeling from listening to the "secret laboratory",and the master got some secret one -that's for sure ..... I liked the connection between him and the african rechargeble tunes -he is going on and on around a model of an 80's electric stracture , and his bright comes ofcourse-from the scratchy yet lovely voice of this great artist . As for my own secret c.d. collection,well,it is lovely to find such type of "frank sinatra"... rare combination of talent,creativaty,charm,and probably much more .

More from the Upsetter, but no 'Millionare Liquidator', 05 Jan 2001
Another outing for Lee Scratch Perry, with good tracks, but not his best of this period. While newcomers to his work may like it, older fans of his work may be a little dissapointed. Still, surreal and fun... Can't be bad.

Each to their own, BUT, 03 Jul 2006
Everyone has their own opinion and dont let me put you off buying this album, as there are some good songs on it, but this is far cry from albums such as 'Arkology' (which is a must for any Perry fan), 'Open the Gate', 'Build the Ark'. Go straight to the good stuff and buy 'Arkology' and go from there (save yourself a small fortune too).

There is of course classic albums such as Police and Thieves (Junior Murvin) , Party Time (The Heptones) which are superb albums produced by Perry.

Best Introduction, 23 Mar 2006
I bought this album as an introduction to Lee Perry's work, after already hearing a few King Tubby compilations. I was not dissapointed by the hype and enamour built up around the upsetter, and this has some of his best material. However, it also has his weakest track 'white belly rat' which does not let down the rest of the CD. This is definately worth the low price and I think it is a better start than essential lee perry, which is a more commercial outing. Will leave you wanting more.

Everything starts from Scratch..., 29 Jan 2004
Having been listening to various reggae artists for the last 15 odd years, no CD has stunned me by its brilliance as much as this. In fact I bought it on the off chance as I had heard that LSP was worth a listen...but after listening to it twice I went out and bought two more copies to give to friends as I felt it would be an injustice if this music went unnoticed! Something I've not done before and probably won't do again! I have since bought more LSP but none are as good as this (Earthman Skanking is a close second).
So why is it so good? Well not only is it original (from the mix of the baby crying in 'People Funny Boy' which incidentally really does work), to the catchy 'Uncle Desmond' and then on to the witty 'Bathroom skank' ('you have to be clean..to be on the scene..'), before more subtle special effects in 'Cold weather' (rain this time, again - it works - so good in fact that he uses it in 'Kentucky Skank'). All this and I haven't even mentioned my favourite 'White Belly Rat' a reflection on his falling out with Bob Marley which could go on for an hour and I wouldn't get bored of it.

So there you have it! Give it a go - you won't be disappointed, trust me!

An excellent introduction to the Upsetter., 15 Jan 2003
Are you looking for an introduction to Jamaican producer, vocalist and all-round nutter Lee 'Scratch' Perry, but found yourself drowning in the choice of albums that the extremely prolific dub/reggae-meister has released?

Well, struggle no further, you have found a flawless selection of some of his greatest achievements. Whereas on some other compilations, Perry is the common denominator as a producer, on 'Upsetter: Essential Madness From The Scratch Files', he takes centre stage where he belongs, producing, mixing and vocalizing. OK, there are a few guests on this album, but Perry naturally dominates every track from start to finish.

'The Upsetter' and 'Kimble' act as an introduction to the album and to the madman himself, enjoying tough vocal posturing as he showcases his legendary sense of humour (Perry boasts of being 'Kimble the Nimble', to the sound effect of a glass being knocked over). The Jamaican hit 'People Funny Boy' is an irresistibly catchy tune, even below the sample of a wailing baby, which although bizarre, lends the track a certain charm.

'Cow Thief Skank' is the hilarious tale of a cow purloined in the night. Perry and his vocal accomplice are not amused, dishing out threats to the thief and producing their own cow sound effects!

Perhaps a personal favourite would have to be 'Public Jestering'. Beneath the courtroom antics and skylarking, there's a huge bassline and heavy drum, illustrating Perry's mastery of the mixing desk. Listen to this track on headphones, and you can almost feel his fingers on the controls.

'Stay Dread' is yet another highlight, infectious vocals, and an absolutely huge bass thumping out the tune. I could go on, but since every track is perfectly selected, I would have to credit every track to do the album justice. Needless to say, when I bought the album it didn't leave my CD player for weeks. I am still listening to it now, months later, and it sounds as joyous to my ears as ever.

This album is an essential choice for a Lee 'Scratch' Perry newcomer, because it is simply an album with a selection of his best reggae tracks, with no obscure mixes or dubs (which are fine but perhaps better suited to those accustomed to his style). Even though it is a compilation, the tracks are so well picked that it runs like a planned album.

Highly Recommended.

It is worth noting that the sleeve notes are very informative, and give a brief description and history of each track on the collection.

You like Lee Perry, and do not have this album? , 08 Jul 2006
JUST BUY IT - This IS HIS BEST album/compilation, all things considered. Yes there are some 'big' tracks missing so your quest in finalising your collection is probably not yet over.

If you have not heard any/much of Lee Perry's work this album just about sums him up, this is some (even most, dare i say it, ok allot) of his finest works all wrapped up into three disks. If you do not like it after having listened to it, then leave this Artist (and his 'friends') well alone - forever.

If you have the odd album and think hes poo, There is allot of 'junk' out there!! These are other albums of 'his/friends' I would also rate highly:

The Heptones - Party Time
The Congo's
Open the Gate/Build the Ark - Lee Perry & Friends
Junior Murvin - Police and Thieves
Scratch Attack (2 solid albums in 1)
The Upsetters 'Super Ape'
George Faith - To be a Lover, Max Romeo and others.

This album has a good array of tracks/versions from many of the albums listed above so buy this one and go from there, and save yourself a small fortune in the process.

It is of course all a matter of personal choice. You decide.

Return of the ape man, 08 Jan 2005
Along with the brilliant King Tubby, Sscratch must lay claim to being one of the most influencial persons of the whole Reggae, Ska, Dub, Rocksteady thing. This album highlights the essense of the man. A man who smoked so much Ganja that he burnt down his own studio in a fit of paranoia.
The only perceived weakness could be the repeativeness of the tracks, however this reflects upon the scene surrounding the soundsystems of Jamaica, and not scratch's ability to produce original material (and original his material was).
A personal favorite song is Roots Train by Dillinger, which climaxes in what would now be called a rap, and gives us a tangible link to modern day music. However the songs aim is to highlight the plight of the Rasta, who suffered in a Jamaica where Ganja was illegal.
All in all an exception introduction to the world of Dub Reggae and more than that it highlights that Reggae exists, moreover is waiting to be discovered, beyond its figurehead Bob Marley.

Give Thanks & Praise for the Dub Shepherd!!!, 24 Jun 2003
I only give 5 stars to utter classics like Perry's Blackboard Jungle Dub or Pablo & Tubby's 'Meets Rockers Uptown' and this compilation contains some comparable and seminal work from the Black Ark era.

Diverse influences and musical innovation mean that Jamaican music, Ska, Roots, Dub, etc has in turn had an influence upon the likes of soul, rap, techno and other diverse genres that is hard to overstate. Perry was at the forefront of the 'Dub' era in the 70s using drum machines before anyone else and creating sounds (upon a two-track tape deck) the likes of which had never been heard before. His distinctive sound, e.g. his 'flying hi-hat' set him apart from other producers in a fiercely competitive market and he worked with all of the best Jamaican artists e.g Bob Marley, Max Romeo, The Meditations, The Mighty Diamonds, Junior Murvin, the list goes on.

Never mind that there are some 'fillers' here (though perhaps not as far as hardcore fans are concerned), the genius of the man is well in evidence and there are enough classics to make it well worth the price for any Reggae newbies: Life Is Not Easy - The Meditations, War Ina Babylon - Max Romeo, Chase the Devil - Max Romeo (sampled by the Prodigy!), Police & Thieves - Junior Murvin.

In addition there are plenty of tracks that will make you bounce or just stop and listen: One Step Forward - Max Romeo, Dub Revolution, Pt. 1, Why Must I [Version] - The Heptones, Vibrate On - Augustus Pablo.

As one reviewer points out this concentrates on the late 70s Black Ark work and doesn't overlap with other compilations. It's a well-thumbed and well-loved part of my collection and I can't recommend it highly enough.

it hasnt stopped me getting hangovers, funny that, 26 Mar 2003
i bought this because i didnt have any reggae to speak of, it seemed an interesting place to start. Sadly (?) i only listen to it now when i have a hangover, on a sunny day. The fact that this is not very often probably has more to do with lack of scottish sun than a lack of beer. I just found that i have not got to know it very well, there is a lot here but it becomes rather repetetive over 3 CDs and there was not enough that jumped out and pulled me in. I went back to my U2 and sigur ros. Perhaps i will try again sometime. Amusing to hear the original of the prodigy song out of space though.

Excellent selection and beautifully mastered, 22 Jan 2002
The definitive Lee Perry selection, filled with the best of his production for other artists and his own output. Worth it alone almost for the quality of the remastering of the Roast Fish & Cornbread tunes as the only available release of this album sounds as though it was mastered from a record left behind a radiator for 20 years.

Lee Perry: Pretty Amazing Really., 15 Jun 2003
The first Perry I heard. Simply knocked me off my feet. Although only the tip of the iceberg from Scratch but it's still better than any other kind of music I have ever heard. It stopped me from buying anything else and rightly so.

I am an alien from outer space, living in a briefcase, 11 Jun 2001
Really, for post-Black Ark Scratch, it doesn't get any better than this. The current Station Underground Report is a pale imitation of the often quite lucidly bonkers narrative on here (if that makes any sense). Sure, it's heavily dancehall-influenced, which is going to upset purists, but if the title track doesn't make you bob and weave around your front room, you have no soul.

IT is a different way,when he is scratching his voice, 20 Mar 2001
Okay ,no hard feelings(no,realy ) but i'm just a newcomer of perry's stuff . Even though i dislike regae(that's the way i was burn and rased...jazz and pink floyd) i'll express some of my happieness and brightness feeling from listening to the "secret laboratory",and the master got some secret one -that's for sure ..... I liked the connection between him and the african rechargeble tunes -he is going on and on around a model of an 80's electric stracture , and his bright comes ofcourse-from the scratchy yet lovely voice of this great artist . As for my own secret c.d. collection,well,it is lovely to find such type of "frank sinatra"... rare combination of talent,creativaty,charm,and probably much more .

More from the Upsetter, but no 'Millionare Liquidator', 05 Jan 2001
Another outing for Lee Scratch Perry, with good tracks, but not his best of this period. While newcomers to his work may like it, older fans of his work may be a little dissapointed. Still, surreal and fun... Can't be bad.

Each to their own, BUT, 03 Jul 2006
Everyone has their own opinion and dont let me put you off buying this album, as there are some good songs on it, but this is far cry from albums such as 'Arkology' (which is a must for any Perry fan), 'Open the Gate', 'Build the Ark'. Go straight to the good stuff and buy 'Arkology' and go from there (save yourself a small fortune too).

There is of course classic albums such as Police and Thieves (Junior Murvin) , Party Time (The Heptones) which are superb albums produced by Perry.

Best Introduction, 23 Mar 2006
I bought this album as an introduction to Lee Perry's work, after already hearing a few King Tubby compilations. I was not dissapointed by the hype and enamour built up around the upsetter, and this has some of his best material. However, it also has his weakest track 'white belly rat' which does not let down the rest of the CD. This is definately worth the low price and I think it is a better start than essential lee perry, which is a more commercial outing. Will leave you wanting more.

Everything starts from Scratch..., 29 Jan 2004
Having been listening to various reggae artists for the last 15 odd years, no CD has stunned me by its brilliance as much as this. In fact I bought it on the off chance as I had heard that LSP was worth a listen...but after listening to it twice I went out and bought two more copies to give to friends as I felt it would be an injustice if this music went unnoticed! Something I've not done before and probably won't do again! I have since bought more LSP but none are as good as this (Earthman Skanking is a close second).
So why is it so good? Well not only is it original (from the mix of the baby crying in 'People Funny Boy' which incidentally really does work), to the catchy 'Uncle Desmond' and then on to the witty 'Bathroom skank' ('you have to be clean..to be on the scene..'), before more subtle special effects in 'Cold weather' (rain this time, again - it works - so good in fact that he uses it in 'Kentucky Skank'). All this and I haven't even mentioned my favourite 'White Belly Rat' a reflection on his falling out with Bob Marley which could go on for an hour and I wouldn't get bored of it.

So there you have it! Give it a go - you won't be disappointed, trust me!

An excellent introduction to the Upsetter., 15 Jan 2003
Are you looking for an introduction to Jamaican producer, vocalist and all-round nutter Lee 'Scratch' Perry, but found yourself drowning in the choice of albums that the extremely prolific dub/reggae-meister has released?

Well, struggle no further, you have found a flawless selection of some of his greatest achievements. Whereas on some other compilations, Perry is the common denominator as a producer, on 'Upsetter: Essential Madness From The Scratch Files', he takes centre stage where he belongs, producing, mixing and vocalizing. OK, there are a few guests on this album, but Perry naturally dominates every track from start to finish.

'The Upsetter' and 'Kimble' act as an introduction to the album and to the madman himself, enjoying tough vocal posturing as he showcases his legendary sense of humour (Perry boasts of being 'Kimble the Nimble', to the sound effect of a glass being knocked over). The Jamaican hit 'People Funny Boy' is an irresistibly catchy tune, even below the sample of a wailing baby, which although bizarre, lends the track a certain charm.

'Cow Thief Skank' is the hilarious tale of a cow purloined in the night. Perry and his vocal accomplice are not amused, dishing out threats to the thief and producing their own cow sound effects!

Perhaps a personal favourite would have to be 'Public Jestering'. Beneath the courtroom antics and skylarking, there's a huge bassline and heavy drum, illustrating Perry's mastery of the mixing desk. Listen to this track on headphones, and you can almost feel his fingers on the controls.

'Stay Dread' is yet another highlight, infectious vocals, and an absolutely huge bass thumping out the tune. I could go on, but since every track is perfectly selected, I would have to credit every track to do the album justice. Needless to say, when I bought the album it didn't leave my CD player for weeks. I am still listening to it now, months later, and it sounds as joyous to my ears as ever.

This album is an essential choice for a Lee 'Scratch' Perry newcomer, because it is simply an album with a selection of his best reggae tracks, with no obscure mixes or dubs (which are fine but perhaps better suited to those accustomed to his style). Even though it is a compilation, the tracks are so well picked that it runs like a planned album.

Highly Recommended.

It is worth noting that the sleeve notes are very informative, and give a brief description and history of each track on the collection.

saladcreme, 27 Sep 2008
PANIC IN BABYLON, Got to be the best LSP album ever! if you looking for that far out outerspace then find it with this heavenly stoned album!! absolutely beautiful tracks, made by a CLEVER man!

Reggae Shaman Masterpiece!, 08 Sep 2007
Fantastic. This is all I played for a year straight. Political - intense - passionate - heavy, and couldn't have been more appropriate in the context of our modern day world filled with uncertainty and war. The band is sooooo good, that no matter where scratch's mind is, it is somehow ok. The sound is crisp and richly layered as in "Greetings" and the potent groove of "Purity Rock"... the caucophany of "Panic" on the bonus CD is dark - deep - and mezmerizingly apocalyptic. The voice of magical humour for global humanity.

For a nice live complement to this CD, I also recommend Alive More Than Ever... which is also fantasticly infectious.

The Future of Reggae - Should have won a grammy, 08 Sep 2007
Fantastic. This is all I played for a year straight. Political - intense - passionate - heavy and couldn't have been more appropriate in the context of our modern day world filled with uncertainty and war. The band is sooooo good, that no matter where scratch's mind is, it is somehow ok. The sound is crisp and richly layered "Greetings" and the potent groove of "Purity Rock"... the caucophany of "Panic" on the bonus CD is dark - deep - and mezmerizingly apocalyptic.

For a nice live complement to this CD, I also recommend Alive More Than Ever... which is also fantasticly infectious.

Unbeatable - Lee Perry is the cockyman!, 23 Apr 2007
This is a bit more uptempo than the other Lee Perry records I own. It was not produced by the man himself, probably because he has finally gone completely bonkers and is unable to do the serious side of the work (I base this assumption on hearing the lyrics on this album, and on seeing him a couple of years ago where I decided he was either totally insane or pretending to be. I suspect it's a bit of both).

Anyway, I digress. This album is now my favourite reggae/dub album of all time, and it is currently my favourite CD. The production is very slick, quite poptastic, but it has loads of the usual crazy delay effects that you expect from dub. It also has some modern touches, e.g. putting Lee's voice through a 'Cher' style vocoder.

The lyrics are hilarious and brilliant. The tunes are amazing (quality live playing as well as production). I can't recommend this highly enough.

My only criticism is their choice of the 1st song on the CD. Probably selected because it's the most up-tempo, but it is far from the best, so seems a strange way to kick off the CD.

If you're a fan of classic Lee Perry, you'll love this, and if you're not, it's not a bad place to start listening to the original reggae loon...

this is a great perry album, 24 Nov 2006
I am blown away - this is a musically excellent and coherent album. The variety is stunning, yet album fits together without a weak track. Although the reggae/dub heritage is there, even those whom dislike reggae will find this a joyful experience. Sure the lyrics are eccentric, but there's an intelligence to them and I can't give you enough encouragement to Add to Shopping Basket. The newer edition has a three track bonus disk with remixes which is worthwhile, but the truly excellent music is here.

You like Lee Perry, and do not have this album? , 08 Jul 2006
JUST BUY IT - This IS HIS BEST album/compilation, all things considered. Yes there are some 'big' tracks missing so your quest in finalising your collection is probably not yet over.

If you have not heard any/much of Lee Perry's work this album just about sums him up, this is some (even most, dare i say it, ok allot) of his finest works all wrapped up into three disks. If you do not like it after having listened to it, then leave this Artist (and his 'friends') well alone - forever.

If you have the odd album and think hes poo, There is allot of 'junk' out there!! These are other albums of 'his/friends' I would also rate highly:

The Heptones - Party Time
The Congo's
Open the Gate/Build the Ark - Lee Perry & Friends
Junior Murvin - Police and Thieves
Scratch Attack (2 solid albums in 1)
The Upsetters 'Super Ape'
George Faith - To be a Lover, Max Romeo and others.

This album has a good array of tracks/versions from many of the albums listed above so buy this one and go from there, and save yourself a small fortune in the process.

It is of course all a matter of personal choice. You decide.

Return of the ape man, 08 Jan 2005
Along with the brilliant King Tubby, Sscratch must lay claim to being one of the most influencial persons of the whole Reggae, Ska, Dub, Rocksteady thing. This album highlights the essense of the man. A man who smoked so much Ganja that he burnt down his own studio in a fit of paranoia.
The only perceived weakness could be the repeativeness of the tracks, however this reflects upon the scene surrounding the soundsystems of Jamaica, and not scratch's ability to produce original material (and original his material was).
A personal favorite song is Roots Train by Dillinger, which climaxes in what would now be called a rap, and gives us a tangible link to modern day music. However the songs aim is to highlight the plight of the Rasta, who suffered in a Jamaica where Ganja was illegal.
All in all an exception introduction to the world of Dub Reggae and more than that it highlights that Reggae exists, moreover is waiting to be discovered, beyond its figurehead Bob Marley.

Give Thanks & Praise for the Dub Shepherd!!!, 24 Jun 2003
I only give 5 stars to utter classics like Perry's Blackboard Jungle Dub or Pablo & Tubby's 'Meets Rockers Uptown' and this compilation contains some comparable and seminal work from the Black Ark era.

Diverse influences and musical innovation mean that Jamaican music, Ska, Roots, Dub, etc has in turn had an influence upon the likes of soul, rap, techno and other diverse genres that is hard to overstate. Perry was at the forefront of the 'Dub' era in the 70s using drum machines before anyone else and creating sounds (upon a two-track tape deck) the likes of which had never been heard before. His distinctive sound, e.g. his 'flying hi-hat' set him apart from other producers in a fiercely competitive market and he worked with all of the best Jamaican artists e.g Bob Marley, Max Romeo, The Meditations, The Mighty Diamonds, Junior Murvin, the list goes on.

Never mind that there are some 'fillers' here (though perhaps not as far as hardcore fans are concerned), the genius of the man is well in evidence and there are enough classics to make it well worth the price for any Reggae newbies: Life Is Not Easy - The Meditations, War Ina Babylon - Max Romeo, Chase the Devil - Max Romeo (sampled by the Prodigy!), Police & Thieves - Junior Murvin.

In addition there are plenty of tracks that will make you bounce or just stop and listen: One Step Forward - Max Romeo, Dub Revolution, Pt. 1, Why Must I [Version] - The Heptones, Vibrate On - Augustus Pablo.

As one reviewer points out this concentrates on the late 70s Black Ark work and doesn't overlap with other compilations. It's a well-thumbed and well-loved part of my collection and I can't recommend it highly enough.

it hasnt stopped me getting hangovers, funny that, 26 Mar 2003
i bought this because i didnt have any reggae to speak of, it seemed an interesting place to start. Sadly (?) i only listen to it now when i have a hangover, on a sunny day. The fact that this is not very often probably has more to do with lack of scottish sun than a lack of beer. I just found that i have not got to know it very well, there is a lot here but it becomes rather repetetive over 3 CDs and there was not enough that jumped out and pulled me in. I went back to my U2 and sigur ros. Perhaps i will try again sometime. Amusing to hear the original of the prodigy song out of space though.

Excellent selection and beautifully mastered, 22 Jan 2002
The definitive Lee Perry selection, filled with the best of his production for other artists and his own output. Worth it alone almost for the quality of the remastering of the Roast Fish & Cornbread tunes as the only available release of this album sounds as though it was mastered from a record left behind a radiator for 20 years.

Lee Perry: Pretty Amazing Really., 15 Jun 2003
The first Perry I heard. Simply knocked me off my feet. Although only the tip of the iceberg from Scratch but it's still better than any other kind of music I have ever heard. It stopped me from buying anything else and rightly so.

I am an alien from outer space, living in a briefcase, 11 Jun 2001
Really, for post-Black Ark Scratch, it doesn't get any better than this. The current Station Underground Report is a pale imitation of the often quite lucidly bonkers narrative on here (if that makes any sense). Sure, it's heavily dancehall-influenced, which is going to upset purists, but if the title track doesn't make you bob and weave around your front room, you have no soul.

IT is a different way,when he is scratching his voice, 20 Mar 2001
Okay ,no hard feelings(no,realy ) but i'm just a newcomer of perry's stuff . Even though i dislike regae(that's the way i was burn and rased...jazz and pink floyd) i'll express some of my happieness and brightness feeling from listening to the "secret laboratory",and the master got some secret one -that's for sure ..... I liked the connection between him and the african rechargeble tunes -he is going on and on around a model of an 80's electric stracture , and his bright comes ofcourse-from the scratchy yet lovely voice of this great artist . As for my own secret c.d. collection,well,it is lovely to find such type of "frank sinatra"... rare combination of talent,creativaty,charm,and probably much more .

More from the Upsetter, but no 'Millionare Liquidator', 05 Jan 2001
Another outing for Lee Scratch Perry, with good tracks, but not his best of this period. While newcomers to his work may like it, older fans of his work may be a little dissapointed. Still, surreal and fun... Can't be bad.

Each to their own, BUT, 03 Jul 2006
Everyone has their own opinion and dont let me put you off buying this album, as there are some good songs on it, but this is far cry from albums such as 'Arkology' (which is a must for any Perry fan), 'Open the Gate', 'Build the Ark'. Go straight to the good stuff and buy 'Arkology' and go from there (save yourself a small fortune too).

There is of course classic albums such as Police and Thieves (Junior Murvin) , Party Time (The Heptones) which are superb albums produced by Perry.

Best Introduction, 23 Mar 2006
I bought this album as an introduction to Lee Perry's work, after already hearing a few King Tubby compilations. I was not dissapointed by the hype and enamour built up around the upsetter, and this has some of his best material. However, it also has his weakest track 'white belly rat' which does not let down the rest of the CD. This is definately worth the low price and I think it is a better start than essential lee perry, which is a more commercial outing. Will leave you wanting more.

Everything starts from Scratch..., 29 Jan 2004
Having been listening to various reggae artists for the last 15 odd years, no CD has stunned me by its brilliance as much as this. In fact I bought it on the off chance as I had heard that LSP was worth a listen...but after listening to it twice I went out and bought two more copies to give to friends as I felt it would be an injustice if this music went unnoticed! Something I've not done before and probably won't do again! I have since bought more LSP but none are as good as this (Earthman Skanking is a close second).
So why is it so good? Well not only is it original (from the mix of the baby crying in 'People Funny Boy' which incidentally really does work), to the catchy 'Uncle Desmond' and then on to the witty 'Bathroom skank' ('you have to be clean..to be on the scene..'), before more subtle special effects in 'Cold weather' (rain this time, again - it works - so good in fact that he uses it in 'Kentucky Skank'). All this and I haven't even mentioned my favourite 'White Belly Rat' a reflection on his falling out with Bob Marley which could go on for an hour and I wouldn't get bored of it.

So there you have it! Give it a go - you won't be disappointed, trust me!

An excellent introduction to the Upsetter., 15 Jan 2003
Are you looking for an introduction to Jamaican producer, vocalist and all-round nutter Lee 'Scratch' Perry, but found yourself drowning in the choice of albums that the extremely prolific dub/reggae-meister has released?

Well, struggle no further, you have found a flawless selection of some of his greatest achievements. Whereas on some other compilations, Perry is the common denominator as a producer, on 'Upsetter: Essential Madness From The Scratch Files', he takes centre stage where he belongs, producing, mixing and vocalizing. OK, there are a few guests on this album, but Perry naturally dominates every track from start to finish.

'The Upsetter' and 'Kimble' act as an introduction to the album and to the madman himself, enjoying tough vocal posturing as he showcases his legendary sense of humour (Perry boasts of being 'Kimble the Nimble', to the sound effect of a glass being knocked over). The Jamaican hit 'People Funny Boy' is an irresistibly catchy tune, even below the sample of a wailing baby, which although bizarre, lends the track a certain charm.

'Cow Thief Skank' is the hilarious tale of a cow purloined in the night. Perry and his vocal accomplice are not amused, dishing out threats to the thief and producing their own cow sound effects!

Perhaps a personal favourite would have to be 'Public Jestering'. Beneath the courtroom antics and skylarking, there's a huge bassline and heavy drum, illustrating Perry's mastery of the mixing desk. Listen to this track on headphones, and you can almost feel his fingers on the controls.

'Stay Dread' is yet another highlight, infectious vocals, and an absolutely huge bass thumping out the tune. I could go on, but since every track is perfectly selected, I would have to credit every track to do the album justice. Needless to say, when I bought the album it didn't leave my CD player for weeks. I am still listening to it now, months later, and it sounds as joyous to my ears as ever.

This album is an essential choice for a Lee 'Scratch' Perry newcomer, because it is simply an album with a selection of his best reggae tracks, with no obscure mixes or dubs (which are fine but perhaps better suited to those accustomed to his style). Even though it is a compilation, the tracks are so well picked that it runs like a planned album.

Highly Recommended.

It is worth noting that the sleeve notes are very informative, and give a brief description and history of each track on the collection.

saladcreme, 27 Sep 2008
PANIC IN BABYLON, Got to be the best LSP album ever! if you looking for that far out outerspace then find it with this heavenly stoned album!! absolutely beautiful tracks, made by a CLEVER man!

Reggae Shaman Masterpiece!, 08 Sep 2007
Fantastic. This is all I played for a year straight. Political - intense - passionate - heavy, and couldn't have been more appropriate in the context of our modern day world filled with uncertainty and war. The band is sooooo good, that no matter where scratch's mind is, it is somehow ok. The sound is crisp and richly layered as in "Greetings" and the potent groove of "Purity Rock"... the caucophany of "Panic" on the bonus CD is dark - deep - and mezmerizingly apocalyptic. The voice of magical humour for global humanity.

For a nice live complement to this CD, I also recommend Alive More Than Ever... which is also fantasticly infectious.

The Future of Reggae - Should have won a grammy, 08 Sep 2007
Fantastic. This is all I played for a year straight. Political - intense - passionate - heavy and couldn't have been more appropriate in the context of our modern day world filled with uncertainty and war. The band is sooooo good, that no matter where scratch's mind is, it is somehow ok. The sound is crisp and richly layered "Greetings" and the potent groove of "Purity Rock"... the caucophany of "Panic" on the bonus CD is dark - deep - and mezmerizingly apocalyptic.

For a nice live complement to this CD, I also recommend Alive More Than Ever... which is also fantasticly infectious.

Unbeatable - Lee Perry is the cockyman!, 23 Apr 2007
This is a bit more uptempo than the other Lee Perry records I own. It was not produced by the man himself, probably because he has finally gone completely bonkers and is unable to do the serious side of the work (I base this assumption on hearing the lyrics on this album, and on seeing him a couple of years ago where I decided he was either totally insane or pretending to be. I suspect it's a bit of both).

Anyway, I digress. This album is now my favourite reggae/dub album of all time, and it is currently my favourite CD. The production is very slick, quite poptastic, but it has loads of the usual crazy delay effects that you expect from dub. It also has some modern touches, e.g. putting Lee's voice through a 'Cher' style vocoder.

The lyrics are hilarious and brilliant. The tunes are amazing (quality live playing as well as production). I can't recommend this highly enough.

My only criticism is their choice of the 1st song on the CD. Probably selected because it's the most up-tempo, but it is far from the best, so seems a strange way to kick off the CD.

If you're a fan of classic Lee Perry, you'll love this, and if you're not, it's not a bad place to start listening to the original reggae loon...

this is a great perry album, 24 Nov 2006
I am blown away - this is a musically excellent and coherent album. The variety is stunning, yet album fits together without a weak track. Although the reggae/dub heritage is there, even those whom dislike reggae will find this a joyful experience. Sure the lyrics are eccentric, but there's an intelligence to them and I can't give you enough encouragement to Add to Shopping Basket. The newer edition has a three track bonus disk with remixes which is worthwhile, but the truly excellent music is here.

Don't bother with this people!, 30 May 2008
Just to let everyone know, the material on this album isn't actually by Scratch, it's material he had nothing to do with putout underhis name. Check out David Katz's biography of him, it's in there.

IMO go for Arkology or Essential Madness From The Scratch Files instead.

FFFWWAAR!!!, 13 Apr 2004
I would definetely recommend this album to anybody who frequents the olde clarky cat or quack candles if u know what i mean. If ur up 4 a pumpkin party or a hoot and a half just play this album at a session with ur mates after youve suffered a couple of bisqweet eggs(dixon) and dr.chrons (u know what stage of a party im talking about!) then lie back on your favourite couch with the biggest blunt youve ever seen in your hand(youre not quite there yet). Now put on the 3rd(could b the 5th) song on the album and enjoy. if ur properly stonehenged(f!%cked) this will make for some of the best listening of the session until hugh changes the cd.

You like Lee Perry, and do not have this album? , 08 Jul 2006
JUST BUY IT - This IS HIS BEST album/compilation, all things considered. Yes there are some 'big' tracks missing so your quest in finalising your collection is probably not yet over.

If you have not heard any/much of Lee Perry's work this album just about sums him up, this is some (even most, dare i say it, ok allot) of his finest works all wrapped up into three disks. If you do not like it after having listened to it, then leave this Artist (and his 'friends') well alone - forever.

If you have the odd album and think hes poo, There is allot of 'junk' out there!! These are other albums of 'his/friends' I would also rate highly:

The Heptones - Party Time
The Congo's
Open the Gate/Build the Ark - Lee Perry & Friends
Junior Murvin - Police and Thieves
Scratch Attack (2 solid albums in 1)
The Upsetters 'Super Ape'
George Faith - To be a Lover, Max Romeo and others.

This album has a good array of tracks/versions from many of the albums listed above so buy this one and go from there, and save yourself a small fortune in the process.

It is of course all a matter of personal choice. You decide.

Return of the ape man, 08 Jan 2005
Along with the brilliant King Tubby, Sscratch must lay claim to being one of the most influencial persons of the whole Reggae, Ska, Dub, Rocksteady thing. This album highlights the essense of the man. A man who smoked so much Ganja that he burnt down his own studio in a fit of paranoia.
The only perceived weakness could be the repeativeness of the tracks, however this reflects upon the scene surrounding the soundsystems of Jamaica, and not scratch's ability to produce original material (and original his material was).
A personal favorite song is Roots Train by Dillinger, which climaxes in what would now be called a rap, and gives us a tangible link to modern day music. However the songs aim is to highlight the plight of the Rasta, who suffered in a Jamaica where Ganja was illegal.
All in all an exception introduction to the world of Dub Reggae and more than that it highlights that Reggae exists, moreover is waiting to be discovered, beyond its figurehead Bob Marley.

Give Thanks & Praise for the Dub Shepherd!!!, 24 Jun 2003
I only give 5 stars to utter classics like Perry's Blackboard Jungle Dub or Pablo & Tubby's 'Meets Rockers Uptown' and this compilation contains some comparable and seminal work from the Black Ark era.

Diverse influences and musical innovation mean that Jamaican music, Ska, Roots, Dub, etc has in turn had an influence upon the likes of soul, rap, techno and other diverse genres that is hard to overstate. Perry was at the forefront of the 'Dub' era in the 70s using drum machines before anyone else and creating sounds (upon a two-track tape deck) the likes of which had never been heard before. His distinctive sound, e.g. his 'flying hi-hat' set him apart from other producers in a fiercely competitive market and he worked with all of the best Jamaican artists e.g Bob Marley, Max Romeo, The Meditations, The Mighty Diamonds, Junior Murvin, the list goes on.

Never mind that there are some 'fillers' here (though perhaps not as far as hardcore fans are concerned), the genius of the man is well in evidence and there are enough classics to make it well worth the price for any Reggae newbies: Life Is Not Easy - The Meditations, War Ina Babylon - Max Romeo, Chase the Devil - Max Romeo (sampled by the Prodigy!), Police & Thieves - Junior Murvin.

In addition there are plenty of tracks that will make you bounce or just stop and listen: One Step Forward - Max Romeo, Dub Revolution, Pt. 1, Why Must I [Version] - The Heptones, Vibrate On - Augustus Pablo.

As one reviewer points out this concentrates on the late 70s Black Ark work and doesn't overlap with other compilations. It's a well-thumbed and well-loved part of my collection and I can't recommend it highly enough.

it hasnt stopped me getting hangovers, funny that, 26 Mar 2003
i bought this because i didnt have any reggae to speak of, it seemed an interesting place to start. Sadly (?) i only listen to it now when i have a hangover, on a sunny day. The fact that this is not very often probably has more to do with lack of scottish sun than a lack of beer. I just found that i have not got to know it very well, there is a lot here but it becomes rather repetetive over 3 CDs and there was not enough that jumped out and pulled me in. I went back to my U2 and sigur ros. Perhaps i will try again sometime. Amusing to hear the original of the prodigy song out of space though.

Excellent selection and beautifully mastered, 22 Jan 2002
The definitive Lee Perry selection, filled with the best of his production for other artists and his own output. Worth it alone almost for the quality of the remastering of the Roast Fish & Cornbread tunes as the only available release of this album sounds as though it was mastered from a record left behind a radiator for 20 years.

Lee Perry: Pretty Amazing Really., 15 Jun 2003
The first Perry I heard. Simply knocked me off my feet. Although only the tip of the iceberg from Scratch but it's still better than any other kind of music I have ever heard. It stopped me from buying anything else and rightly so.

I am an alien from outer space, living in a briefcase, 11 Jun 2001
Really, for post-Black Ark Scratch, it doesn't get any better than this. The current Station Underground Report is a pale imitation of the often quite lucidly bonkers narrative on here (if that makes any sense). Sure, it's heavily dancehall-influenced, which is going to upset purists, but if the title track doesn't make you bob and weave around your front room, you have no soul.

IT is a different way,when he is scratching his voice, 20 Mar 2001
Okay ,no hard feelings(no,realy ) but i'm just a newcomer of perry's stuff . Even though i dislike regae(that's the way i was burn and rased...jazz and pink floyd) i'll express some of my happieness and brightness feeling from listening to the "secret laboratory",and the master got some secret one -that's for sure ..... I liked the connection between him and the african rechargeble tunes -he is going on and on around a model of an 80's electric stracture , and his bright comes ofcourse-from the scratchy yet lovely voice of this great artist . As for my own secret c.d. collection,well,it is lovely to find such type of "frank sinatra"... rare combination of talent,creativaty,charm,and probably much more .

More from the Upsetter, but no 'Millionare Liquidator', 05 Jan 2001
Another outing for Lee Scratch Perry, with good tracks, but not his best of this period. While newcomers to his work may like it, older fans of his work may be a little dissapointed. Still, surreal and fun... Can't be bad.

Each to their own, BUT, 03 Jul 2006
Everyone has their own opinion and dont let me put you off buying this album, as there are some good songs on it, but this is far cry from albums such as 'Arkology' (which is a must for any Perry fan), 'Open the Gate', 'Build the Ark'. Go straight to the good stuff and buy 'Arkology' and go from there (save yourself a small fortune too).

There is of course classic albums such as Police and Thieves (Junior Murvin) , Party Time (The Heptones) which are superb albums produced by Perry.

Best Introduction, 23 Mar 2006
I bought this album as an introduction to Lee Perry's work, after already hearing a few King Tubby compilations. I was not dissapointed by the hype and enamour built up around the upsetter, and this has some of his best material. However, it also has his weakest track 'white belly rat' which does not let down the rest of the CD. This is definately worth the low price and I think it is a better start than essential lee perry, which is a more commercial outing. Will leave you wanting more.

Everything starts from Scratch..., 29 Jan 2004
Having been listening to various reggae artists for the last 15 odd years, no CD has stunned me by its brilliance as much as this. In fact I bought it on the off chance as I had heard that LSP was worth a listen...but after listening to it twice I went out and bought two more copies to give to friends as I felt it would be an injustice if this music went unnoticed! Something I've not done before and probably won't do again! I have since bought more LSP but none are as good as this (Earthman Skanking is a close second).
So why is it so good? Well not only is it original (from the mix of the baby crying in 'People Funny Boy' which incidentally really does work), to the catchy 'Uncle Desmond' and then on to the witty 'Bathroom skank' ('you have to be clean..to be on the scene..'), before more subtle special effects in 'Cold weather' (rain this time, again - it works - so good in fact that he uses it in 'Kentucky Skank'). All this and I haven't even mentioned my favourite 'White Belly Rat' a reflection on his falling out with Bob Marley which could go on for an hour and I wouldn't get bored of it.

So there you have it! Give it a go - you won't be disappointed, trust me!

An excellent introduction to the Upsetter., 15 Jan 2003
Are you looking for an introduction to Jamaican producer, vocalist and all-round nutter Lee 'Scratch' Perry, but found yourself drowning in the choice of albums that the extremely prolific dub/reggae-meister has released?

Well, struggle no further, you have found a flawless selection of some of his greatest achievements. Whereas on some other compilations, Perry is the common denominator as a producer, on 'Upsetter: Essential Madness From The Scratch Files', he takes centre stage where he belongs, producing, mixing and vocalizing. OK, there are a few guests on this album, but Perry naturally dominates every track from start to finish.

'The Upsetter' and 'Kimble' act as an introduction to the album and to the madman himself, enjoying tough vocal posturing as he showcases his legendary sense of humour (Perry boasts of being 'Kimble the Nimble', to the sound effect of a glass being knocked over). The Jamaican hit 'People Funny Boy' is an irresistibly catchy tune, even below the sample of a wailing baby, which although bizarre, lends the track a certain charm.

'Cow Thief Skank' is the hilarious tale of a cow purloined in the night. Perry and his vocal accomplice are not amused, dishing out threats to the thief and producing their own cow sound effects!

Perhaps a personal favourite would have to be 'Public Jestering'. Beneath the courtroom antics and skylarking, there's a huge bassline and heavy drum, illustrating Perry's mastery of the mixing desk. Listen to this track on headphones, and you can almost feel his fingers on the controls.

'Stay Dread' is yet another highlight, infectious vocals, and an absolutely huge bass thumping out the tune. I could go on, but since every track is perfectly selected, I would have to credit every track to do the album justice. Needless to say, when I bought the album it didn't leave my CD player for weeks. I am still listening to it now, months later, and it sounds as joyous to my ears as ever.

This album is an essential choice for a Lee 'Scratch' Perry newcomer, because it is simply an album with a selection of his best reggae tracks, with no obscure mixes or dubs (which are fine but perhaps better suited to those accustomed to his style). Even though it is a compilation, the tracks are so well picked that it runs like a planned album.

Highly Recommended.

It is worth noting that the sleeve notes are very informative, and give a brief description and history of each track on the collection.

saladcreme, 27 Sep 2008
PANIC IN BABYLON, Got to be the best LSP album ever! if you looking for that far out outerspace then find it with this heavenly stoned album!! absolutely beautiful tracks, made by a CLEVER man!

Reggae Shaman Masterpiece!, 08 Sep 2007
Fantastic. This is all I played for a year straight. Political - intense - passionate - heavy, and couldn't have been more appropriate in the context of our modern day world filled with uncertainty and war. The band is sooooo good, that no matter where scratch's mind is, it is somehow ok. The sound is crisp and richly layered as in "Greetings" and the potent groove of "Purity Rock"... the caucophany of "Panic" on the bonus CD is dark - deep - and mezmerizingly apocalyptic. The voice of magical humour for global humanity.

For a nice live complement to this CD, I also recommend Alive More Than Ever... which is also fantasticly infectious.

The Future of Reggae - Should have won a grammy, 08 Sep 2007
Fantastic. This is all I played for a year straight. Political - intense - passionate - heavy and couldn't have been more appropriate in the context of our modern day world filled with uncertainty and war. The band is sooooo good, that no matter where scratch's mind is, it is somehow ok. The sound is crisp and richly layered "Greetings" and the potent groove of "Purity Rock"... the caucophany of "Panic" on the bonus CD is dark - deep - and mezmerizingly apocalyptic.

For a nice live complement to this CD, I also recommend Alive More Than Ever... which is also fantasticly infectious.

Unbeatable - Lee Perry is the cockyman!, 23 Apr 2007
This is a bit more uptempo than the other Lee Perry records I own. It was not produced by the man himself, probably because he has finally gone completely bonkers and is unable to do the serious side of the work (I base this assumption on hearing the lyrics on this album, and on seeing him a couple of years ago where I decided he was either totally insane or pretending to be. I suspect it's a bit of both).

Anyway, I digress. This album is now my favourite reggae/dub album of all time, and it is currently my favourite CD. The production is very slick, quite poptastic, but it has loads of the usual crazy delay effects that you expect from dub. It also has some modern touches, e.g. putting Lee's voice through a 'Cher' style vocoder.

The lyrics are hilarious and brilliant. The tunes are amazing (quality live playing as well as production). I can't recommend this highly enough.

My only criticism is their choice of the 1st song on the CD. Probably selected because it's the most up-tempo, but it is far from the best, so seems a strange way to kick off the CD.

If you're a fan of classic Lee Perry, you'll love this, and if you're not, it's not a bad place to start listening to the original reggae loon...

this is a great perry album, 24 Nov 2006
I am blown away - this is a musically excellent and coherent album. The variety is stunning, yet album fits together without a weak track. Although the reggae/dub heritage is there, even those whom dislike reggae will find this a joyful experience. Sure the lyrics are eccentric, but there's an intelligence to them and I can't give you enough encouragement to Add to Shopping Basket. The newer edition has a three track bonus disk with remixes which is worthwhile, but the truly excellent music is here.

Don't bother with this people!, 30 May 2008
Just to let everyone know, the material on this album isn't actually by Scratch, it's material he had nothing to do with putout underhis name. Check out David Katz's biography of him, it's in there.

IMO go for Arkology or Essential Madness From The Scratch Files instead.

FFFWWAAR!!!, 13 Apr 2004
I would definetely recommend this album to anybody who frequents the olde clarky cat or quack candles if u know what i mean. If ur up 4 a pumpkin party or a hoot and a half just play this album at a session with ur mates after youve suffered a couple of bisqweet eggs(dixon) and dr.chrons (u know what stage of a party im talking about!) then lie back on your favourite couch with the biggest blunt youve ever seen in your hand(youre not quite there yet). Now put on the 3rd(could b the 5th) song on the album and enjoy. if ur properly stonehenged(f!%cked) this will make for some of the best listening of the session until hugh changes the cd.

Artistic madness as it should be, 26 Jul 2005
The magnificent Scratch at his raving best. Clearly wandering around the borderline between madness and completely and utter barking, this long serving musical genius produces an album of pure invective, acid, humour and roots. Coupled with the clean but authentic On-U production, everyone's a winner.

Lee Perry at his best, 29 Jul 2002
Very political. Loads of bass with smart lyrics, great stick in the head tunes. Everyone should own this as its Lee Perry at his most lucid, inventive, antagonistic but lyrical.

You like Lee Perry, and do not have this album? , 08 Jul 2006
JUST BUY IT - This IS HIS BEST album/compilation, all things considered. Yes there are some 'big' tracks missing so your quest in finalising your collection is probably not yet over.

If you have not heard any/much of Lee Perry's work this album just about sums him up, this is some (even most, dare i say it, ok allot) of his finest works all wrapped up into three disks. If you do not like it after having listened to it, then leave this Artist (and his 'friends') well alone - forever.

If you have the odd album and think hes poo, There is allot of 'junk' out there!! These are other albums of 'his/friends' I would also rate highly:

The Heptones - Party Time
The Congo's
Open the Gate/Build the Ark - Lee Perry & Friends
Junior Murvin - Police and Thieves
Scratch Attack (2 solid albums in 1)
The Upsetters 'Super Ape'
George Faith - To be a Lover, Max Romeo and others.

This album has a good array of tracks/versions from many of the albums listed above so buy this one and go from there, and save yourself a small fortune in the process.

It is of course all a matter of personal choice. You decide.

Return of the ape man, 08 Jan 2005
Along with the brilliant King Tubby, Sscratch must lay claim to being one of the most influencial persons of the whole Reggae, Ska, Dub, Rocksteady thing. This album highlights the essense of the man. A man who smoked so much Ganja that he burnt down his own studio in a fit of paranoia.
The only perceived weakness could be the repeativeness of the tracks, however this reflects upon the scene surrounding the soundsystems of Jamaica, and not scratch's ability to produce original material (and original his material was).
A personal favorite song is Roots Train by Dillinger, which climaxes in what would now be called a rap, and gives us a tangible link to modern day music. However the songs aim is to highlight the plight of the Rasta, who suffered in a Jamaica where Ganja was illegal.
All in all an exception introduction to the world of Dub Reggae and more than that it highlights that Reggae exists, moreover is waiting to be discovered, beyond its figurehead Bob Marley.

Give Thanks & Praise for the Dub Shepherd!!!, 24 Jun 2003
I only give 5 stars to utter classics like Perry's Blackboard Jungle Dub or Pablo & Tubby's 'Meets Rockers Uptown' and this compilation contains some comparable and seminal work from the Black Ark era.

Diverse influences and musical innovation mean that Jamaican music, Ska, Roots, Dub, etc has in turn had an influence upon the likes of soul, rap, techno and other diverse genres that is hard to overstate. Perry was at the forefront of the 'Dub' era in the 70s using drum machines before anyone else and creating sounds (upon a two-track tape deck) the likes of which had never been heard before. His distinctive sound, e.g. his 'flying hi-hat' set him apart from other producers in a fiercely competitive market and he worked with all of the best Jamaican artists e.g Bob Marley, Max Romeo, The Meditations, The Mighty Diamonds, Junior Murvin, the list goes on.

Never mind that there are some 'fillers' here (though perhaps not as far as hardcore fans are concerned), the genius of the man is well in evidence and there are enough classics to make it well worth the price for any Reggae newbies: Life Is Not Easy - The Meditations, War Ina Babylon - Max Romeo, Chase the Devil - Max Romeo (sampled by the Prodigy!), Police & Thieves - Junior Murvin.

In addition there are plenty of tracks that will make you bounce or just stop and listen: One Step Forward - Max Romeo, Dub Revolution, Pt. 1, Why Must I [Version] - The Heptones, Vibrate On - Augustus Pablo.

As one reviewer points out this concentrates on the late 70s Black Ark work and doesn't overlap with other compilations. It's a well-thumbed and well-loved part of my collection and I can't recommend it highly enough.

it hasnt stopped me getting hangovers, funny that, 26 Mar 2003
i bought this because i didnt have any reggae to speak of, it seemed an interesting place to start. Sadly (?) i only listen to it now when i have a hangover, on a sunny day. The fact that this is not very often probably has more to do with lack of scottish sun than a lack of beer. I just found that i have not got to know it very well, there is a lot here but it becomes rather repetetive over 3 CDs and there was not enough that jumped out and pulled me in. I went back to my U2 and sigur ros. Perhaps i will try again sometime. Amusing to hear the original of the prodigy song out of space though.

Excellent selection and beautifully mastered, 22 Jan 2002
The definitive Lee Perry selection, filled with the best of his production for other artists and his own output. Worth it alone almost for the quality of the remastering of the Roast Fish & Cornbread tunes as the only available release of this album sounds as though it was mastered from a record left behind a radiator for 20 years.

Lee Perry: Pretty Amazing Really., 15 Jun 2003
The first Perry I heard. Simply knocked me off my feet. Although only the tip of the iceberg from Scratch but it's still better than any other kind of music I have ever heard. It stopped me from buying anything else and rightly so.

I am an alien from outer space, living in a briefcase, 11 Jun 2001
Really, for post-Black Ark Scratch, it doesn't get any better than this. The current Station Underground Report is a pale imitation of the often quite lucidly bonkers narrative on here (if that makes any sense). Sure, it's heavily dancehall-influenced, which is going to upset purists, but if the title track doesn't make you bob and weave around your front room, you have no soul.

IT is a different way,when he is scratching his voice, 20 Mar 2001
Okay ,no hard feelings(no,realy ) but i'm just a newcomer of perry's stuff . Even though i dislike regae(that's the way i was burn and rased...jazz and pink floyd) i'll express some of my happieness and brightness feeling from listening to the "secret laboratory",and the master got some secret one -that's for sure ..... I liked the connection between him and the african rechargeble tunes -he is going on and on around a model of an 80's electric stracture , and his bright comes ofcourse-from the scratchy yet lovely voice of this great artist . As for my own secret c.d. collection,well,it is lovely to find such type of "frank sinatra"... rare combination of talent,creativaty,charm,and probably much more .

More from the Upsetter, but no 'Millionare Liquidator', 05 Jan 2001
Another outing for Lee Scratch Perry, with good tracks, but not his best of this period. While newcomers to his work may like it, older fans of his work may be a little dissapointed. Still, surreal and fun... Can't be bad.

Each to their own, BUT, 03 Jul 2006
Everyone has their own opinion and dont let me put you off buying this album, as there are some good songs on it, but this is far cry from albums such as 'Arkology' (which is a must for any Perry fan), 'Open the Gate', 'Build the Ark'. Go straight to the good stuff and buy 'Arkology' and go from there (save yourself a small fortune too).

There is of course classic albums such as Police and Thieves (Junior Murvin) , Party Time (The Heptones) which are superb albums produced by Perry.

Best Introduction, 23 Mar 2006
I bought this album as an introduction to Lee Perry's work, after already hearing a few King Tubby compilations. I was not dissapointed by the hype and enamour built up around the upsetter, and this has some of his best material. However, it also has his weakest track 'white belly rat' which does not let down the rest of the CD. This is definately worth the low price and I think it is a better start than essential lee perry, which is a more commercial outing. Will leave you wanting more.

Everything starts from Scratch..., 29 Jan 2004
Having been listening to various reggae artists for the last 15 odd years, no CD has stunned me by its brilliance as much as this. In fact I bought it on the off chance as I had heard that LSP was worth a listen...but after listening to it twice I went out and bought two more copies to give to friends as I felt it would be an injustice if this music went unnoticed! Something I've not done before and probably won't do again! I have since bought more LSP but none are as good as this (Earthman Skanking is a close second).
So why is it so good? Well not only is it original (from the mix of the baby crying in 'People Funny Boy' which incidentally really does work), to the catchy 'Uncle Desmond' and then on to the witty 'Bathroom skank' ('you have to be clean..to be on the scene..'), before more subtle special effects in 'Cold weather' (rain this time, again - it works - so good in fact that he uses it in 'Kentucky Skank'). All this and I haven't even mentioned my favourite 'White Belly Rat' a reflection on his falling out with Bob Marley which could go on for an hour and I wouldn't get bored of it.

So there you have it! Give it a go - you won't be disappointed, trust me!

An excellent introduction to the Upsetter., 15 Jan 2003
Are you looking for an introduction to Jamaican producer, vocalist and all-round nutter Lee 'Scratch' Perry, but found yourself drowning in the choice of albums that the extremely prolific dub/reggae-meister has released?

Well, struggle no further, you have found a flawless selection of some of his greatest achievements. Whereas on some other compilations, Perry is the common denominator as a producer, on 'Upsetter: Essential Madness From The Scratch Files', he takes centre stage where he belongs, producing, mixing and vocalizing. OK, there are a few guests on this album, but Perry naturally dominates every track from start to finish.

'The Upsetter' and 'Kimble' act as an introduction to the album and to the madman himself, enjoying tough vocal posturing as he showcases his legendary sense of humour (Perry boasts of being 'Kimble the Nimble', to the sound effect of a glass being knocked over). The Jamaican hit 'People Funny Boy' is an irresistibly catchy tune, even below the sample of a wailing baby, which although bizarre, lends the track a certain charm.

'Cow Thief Skank' is the hilarious tale of a cow purloined in the night. Perry and his vocal accomplice are not amused, dishing out threats to the thief and producing their own cow sound effects!

Perhaps a personal favourite would have to be 'Public Jestering'. Beneath the courtroom antics and skylarking, there's a huge bassline and heavy drum, illustrating Perry's mastery of the mixing desk. Listen to this track on headphones, and you can almost feel his fingers on the controls.

'Stay Dread' is yet another highlight, infectious vocals, and an absolutely huge bass thumping out the tune. I could go on, but since every track is perfectly selected, I would have to credit every track to do the album justice. Needless to say, when I bought the album it didn't leave my CD player for weeks. I am still listening to it now, months later, and it sounds as joyous to my ears as ever.

This album is an essential choice for a Lee 'Scratch' Perry newcomer, because it is simply an album with a selection of his best reggae tracks, with no obscure mixes or dubs (which are fine but perhaps better suited to those accustomed to his style). Even though it is a compilation, the tracks are so well picked that it runs like a planned album.

Highly Recommended.

It is worth noting that the sleeve notes are very informative, and give a brief description and history of each track on the collection.

saladcreme, 27 Sep 2008
PANIC IN BABYLON, Got to be the best LSP album ever! if you looking for that far out outerspace then find it with this heavenly stoned album!! absolutely beautiful tracks, made by a CLEVER man!

Reggae Shaman Masterpiece!, 08 Sep 2007
Fantastic. This is all I played for a year straight. Political - intense - passionate - heavy, and couldn't have been more appropriate in the context of our modern day world filled with uncertainty and war. The band is sooooo good, that no matter where scratch's mind is, it is somehow ok. The sound is crisp and richly layered as in "Greetings" and the potent groove of "Purity Rock"... the caucophany of "Panic" on the bonus CD is dark - deep - and mezmerizingly apocalyptic. The voice of magical humour for global humanity.

For a nice live complement to this CD, I also recommend Alive More Than Ever... which is also fantasticly infectious.

The Future of Reggae - Should have won a grammy, 08 Sep 2007
Fantastic. This is all I played for a year straight. Political - intense - passionate - heavy and couldn't have been more appropriate in the context of our modern day world filled with uncertainty and war. The band is sooooo good, that no matter where scratch's mind is, it is somehow ok. The sound is crisp and richly layered "Greetings" and the potent groove of "Purity Rock"... the caucophany of "Panic" on the bonus CD is dark - deep - and mezmerizingly apocalyptic.

For a nice live complement to this CD, I also recommend Alive More Than Ever... which is also fantasticly infectious.

Unbeatable - Lee Perry is the cockyman!, 23 Apr 2007
This is a bit more uptempo than