v.a.: instrumental dubs #3
Francisco Espregueira
Isle Of Jura returns with Instrumental Dubs #3, a deep dive into the captivating realm of dub versions and beyond. This compilation explores the fascinating intersection of UK Street Soul and reggae on its first side, showcasing two tracks produced by Howard Hill for his Passion Enterprises label in the late 80s. These "Versions" feature a machine-driven rhythm section coupled with a classic reggae skank and subtle hints of soulful vocals, creating a sonic blend that's both familiar and refreshingly new. Adding to the mix is Protek's proto-house gem, "I Love to Dance With You," a track featured on a Jura Soundsystem DJ mix for Planet Trip. This one-off single from the late Errol Parkes receives a loving re-edit from Edinburgh's The Nightlark, adding another layer of intrigue.
The flip side of Instrumental Dubs #3 ventures into slightly different territory. The Cool Notes' "Natural Energy," while not strictly a dub version, captures the essence of the format with its primarily instrumental backing, sparse vocals, and spacey FX, creating a vibe that's undeniably dub-influenced. The compilation culminates with Ilija Rudman's "Dub 4 Love," a secret weapon paying homage to a legendary track from acid house's golden era. With Instrumental Dubs #3, Isle Of Jura once again curates a collection that celebrates the artistry and versatility of dub-inspired music. Available on vinyl.