The importance of King Tubby’s studio to the history of recorded sound is beyond measure and its all-encompassing influence is a lasting monument to the resolute resourcefulness of Jamaica’s musical pioneers. “Dubbing At King Tubby’s” (Volumes 1 & 2) chronicles the late Dubmaster Osbourne ‘King Tubby’ Ruddock’s 70s output from his home studio at 18 Dromilly Avenue in Kingston. With riddims created by the most respected band of the era The Aggrovators (with famed producer Bunny ‘Striker’ Lee at the helm), Tubby was able to deconstruct songs to their raw essence and highlight particular elements and frequencies, giving the listener some real authentic Jamaican ‘Drum & Bass.’
These Dubs have echoed through generations of music makers as have Tubby’s innovations, such as the use of Echo, Reverb and Hi-Pass Filter, which have informed the musical language of creatives the world over opening up a universe of sonic possibilities. Artists from Prince Fatty to Leftfield, Nubya Garcia to Mala have all cited King Tubby as an influence and certainly, the musical landscape would be very different today without Dub. Even the late, great Andrew Weatherall was a champion of the musical aesthetic that emanated from 18 Dromilly Avenue, he played the original King Tubby compilations from Blood & Fire (on which these new issues are based) heavily in the 90s, including at a headline Glastonbury performance.
Available on coloured, double vinyl which includes photography from the acclaimed musical historian Dave Hendley, plus audio restoration by CEDAR / Abbey Road and remastering by Kevin Metcalfe at Sound Masters.
The Aggrovators – Dubbing At King Tubby’s Volume 1 & 2 is available for Record Store Day, April 20th, 2024 in the UK.
