‘Showcase’ is the debut album release from the Abassi All Stars. For those of you who know of Universal Egg and the Deep Root imprint, you’ve no doubt heard many of these riddims being pumped out by the sound-system crews. The album highlights the best tracks from previous 7 inch and 10 inch Deep Root releases, alongside some of the best unreleased versions from the mighty Zion Train studio.

The album opens with three versions based on the riddim taken from the prodigious tune ‘Prophecy’ by Fabian. An impressive start to any release; Earl 16, Fitta Warri and Junior Kigwa all giving thanks and praises alongside the Zion Train horn section.

Next up we have the two cuts on the ‘Suffering’ Riddim; Dubdadda with ‘Cross the Border’ followed by ‘Suffering’ from Sis Sanae. This is one of my favourite riddims, a down-beat affair with some delightfully drawn out brass and muted horn stabs - both cuts have a lovely floating feel.

You’ll also find the ‘Crisis’ riddim included on this release, which regularly features in the Zion Train stage show. One of the stand-out versions of this riddim is the guttural deejay cut ‘Gideom Youth’ from Fitta Warri. Well ruff!

Other highlights include the inspirational ‘What We Gonna Do’ riddim. With its echoes of Channel One and striking victory horns reminiscent of the great Yabby U. Luciano heads up this riddim with ‘What We Gonna Do’ originally mixed for the Twilight Circus crew, but due to popular demand it was put out as a Deep Roots release of its own.

If you want your roots in a sound-system style this is for you, heavy on the drum, heavy on the bass – it’s a serious ting.

As an added bonus the CD boasts a 10 minute video remix by the Echolab VJ team. The video showcases all the artists of the CD alongside the Abassi Hi Power sound system (the custom built 12 kilowatt bad bowy!) in action.

Check it >> CLICK HERE

Review by JumpUp

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