Unlocking the Dub Dimension, Groundation's “Dub Rock”, Revives the DubVersion Tradition
Photo courtesy of Young Tree Records.
One of my favourite aspects of the classic reggae albums is that the artists would include dub versions of songs. I miss the days when a reggae track would be followed by its dub track, offering listeners an alternative dimension to experience the riddim, usually enhancing the experience.
In 2022, Groundation released their brilliant tenth studio album, “One Rock”, featuring collaborations with the truly legendary reggae bands Israel Vibration, The Abyssinians, and The Congos.
Given the album's featuring bands in the impressive “One Rock”, I was surprised to find that there wasn’t a dub version accompanying the tracks. Thankfully, Groundation has provided us with an entire dub version album, “Dub Rock”.
Groundation’s new album is a reimagined true dubby counterpart to their 2022 album. With Groundations trademark mixture of reggae, dub and jazzy beats, “Dub Rock” showcases their flair.
One way to listen to Groundations new album “Dub Rock”, is to combine it with “One Rock”. You can share the experience in a playlist I created on Spotify: One Dub Rock Deluxe. The original track is followed by the dub version afterwards. Listening to the two albums this way, adds another level of experience and takes the listener on an audio journey, it allows you to compare the complexities of the wonderfully crafted dub riddims, by legendary engineer Jim Fox.
“Dub Rock”dubby exploration blasts off with the deep bass and triumphantly trumpeting echoes of “Ancient Form”. Setting the tone of the album, preparing their listeners for the dub adventure they are about to embark on. I found the funky beat, combined with string inflections of “World of Love” to be particularly unique. The cadence of the track has a jazzy feel, it’s something I enjoy about Groundation, the variety, versatility of sounds they never fail to deliver in their music.
The rich vibrations of “Gold Dub” resonate through my soul, the stirring dubby beats and tones have me bopping around my abode as I listen gleefully with my speakers up max. The progression of the riddim makes you want to move your body bop, groove, move. “Demons and Pagans” begins the track with madness instrument intensity, but progresses to cool vibes calm vibrations. Backed up by harmonic vocals and a relaxed beat that gives the listener a chilled feeling that develops into a more upbeat jazzy dub track.
“Dub Rock” is a dubby evolution of “One Rock”, that not only enhances the experience of the original album, but revitalises it, giving it a fresh sound and adding a dub dimension to each track. Groundation has stayed true to the tradition of classic reggae albums by creating a full dub version of their songs, allowing listeners to experience the intricate layers and depth of their music in a way that honours the genre's roots while showcasing their unique style.
By Luka H.
