Noel Ellis (Self-titled showcase album debut) 1983

I get a kick out of introducing people to rare, even obscure, reggae records they have never heard, and this one is a stunner.

Noel Ellis is the son of legendary Studio One/Treasure Isle recording artist Alton Ellis, and this self-titled debut showcase was recorded in Toronto in 1979 by studio wizard Jerry Brown for the pioneering Summer Records – often cited as Canada’s answer to Lee Perry’s Black Ark Studios.

This album features six dub-loved, heavy yet ethereal tracks, with contributions from OG reggae maestros Jackie Mittoo, Willi Williams, and Johnny Osbourne. The eponymous classic lost full-length includes the hugely influential Rocking Universally, whose rhythmic influence was Willi Williams’ “Armagideon Time” (covered by The Clash). The poignantly autobiographical “Memories” (about Noel’s upbringing in Jamaica) is a highpoint as well. “Stop Your Fighting” is a universal anti-materialism/war plea that we should still heed today, while “Marcus Garvey” is delivered in Noel’s playful style, despite a solemn rallying cry of “Africa it must be free.”

Noel Ellis evokes a transcendent majesty, and the album’s economical performances were a blessing compared to certain overproduced recordings of the era. Tasteful keys, varied percussion, essential echo, conquering dub changeovers, and Noel’s impeccable mic control gives an otherworldly twist to Summer’s remarkable drum and bass sound. It is an end-to-end burner for midnight tokers and cool rulers alike.

1. Noel Ellis – To Hail Salassie
2. Stop Your Fighting
3. Rocking Universally (not included here)
4. Marcus Garvey
5. Dance With Me
6. Memories

Engineer : Jerry Brown

Vocals : Noel Ellis
Drums : Colin Suban & Donovan & Bucksie
Bass : Tony Hibberts
Guitar : Kirk Salom & Willie Williams & Matt Shalle
Keyboards : Jackie Mittoo & Tony White & Willie Williams
Percussions : Willie Williams & Bongo Gene & H. Miller & J. Osborne