14 Blackboard Jungle Dub AKA Blackboard Jungle, is one of the most sought after Dub records ever made. The origional pressing consisted of only 300 copies, it remains one of the most valuable vynil pressings in existence. In 1973, the first three Dub albums were released, one from each of Jamaica's top producers. This record, produced and directed by Upsetter Lee Perry with the engineering skills of Osbourne Ruddock AKA King Tubby.
This is the perfect introduction to the weird and wonderful world of the Upsetters and other Dub music. The Album brings you straight in with Lee Perry's unmistakable voice telling ''Calling the meek and humble, welcome to blackboard jungle, so dont you fumble, just be humble....'' anyone who has not yet heard Lee Perry speak before will be mesmerized at his amazing presence and character. The introduction has an amazing echo effect, which was made common in music by Dub music.
As soon as Lee Perry's voice fades, there are some short sharp noises created in the studio, including guitar scratching and very unconventional drumming. Then it suddenly finds its feet and the powerful rhythm for Black Panta, one of the Upsetters finest kicks in. The rest of the track is kept very simple, without too many effects, which became popular in later Dub. The second song, as the title suggests is another version of the same rhythm track, which will come as a shock to people who are not used to Dub records.
The album has some very good Rhythms, including 'Dreamland' by the Wailers, 'Place called Africa' by Junior Byles and the Upsetters. The highlight of the album, and the strongest Rhythm is the version of the wailers 'Kaya', which completes the album.
Other highlights of the album are, the introduction to Jungle Jim, which Lee Perry introduces by growling like a lion, showing off the eccentric geniuses character, which shines through on every performance.
Overall, one of reggaes greatest moments, and the beginnings of Dub, which has gone on to inspire so many new forms of music, most notably, Hip Hop, Drum and Bass and Punk Rock.
