Search - Joe Higgs :: Life of Contradiction

100% Crucial Reggae

Art | 05/05/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the original album, in the original sequence, remastered and sounding great. The liner notes are informative and insightful.



This album is a 100% no-brainer essential for any fan of classic reggae. This belongs of the very short list of all-time classic roots LPs, in a genre where most albums are just collections of singles with one or two classic tracks.



If you like...



"Heart of the Congos" (The Congos)

"Satta Massagana" (The Abyssinians)

"Mr. Isaacs" (Gregory Isaacs)

"Man in the Hills" (Burning Spear)

"Sunday Coming" (Alton Ellis)

"Song Book" (Bob Andy)



... then you need to hear this album. It's distinctive and memorable, combining intelligent songwriting with musical sophistication. Like Bob Andy, Joe Higgs is one of the (mostly) unappreciated geniuses of reggae, and this is his masterpiece. Why are you still reading this? Just buy it already!



PS: Search for Joe Higgs on Youtube to see him singing his classic "There's a Reward".

"

A Real Gem

James Wax | San Diego, CA | 03/28/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This classic first release from reggae great Joe Higgs has finally been reissued. It was previously available only as an international release. Upon first listen, I immediately noticed a marked improvement in sound quality.



For those unfamiliar with the music, it is roots reggae at its best. The songs' melodies are memorable and the message is eternal. But what makes this album truly special? The vocals. Higgs' voice rings with true feeling and a rare sincerity that transform this album from enjoyable to inspiring.



The whole album is solid, but standout tracks include:

Got to Make a Way

Life of Contradiction

Hard Times Don't Bother Me

There's a Reward



Absent is "More Slavery" and several other tracks, including the dub versions, all of which are present on the international release. I believe this is a faithful reproduction of the album in its original form, but "More Slavery" is a great track and is sadly missed. Still, the core of the album is present and I cannot recommend it enough."