Jesus Dread

Crippled from malnutrition, and founder of the legendary vocal group the Prophets, Vivian "Yabby You" Jackson created in "Conquering Lion" the reggae masterpiece that would be transformed into a million other dub masterpieces. Of course, it doesn't hurt to have King Tubby as a buddy and collaborator, although Jackson is no slouch of a producer, himself. This two-CD set contains other pieces, and Jackson productions of the recently deceased trombonist Tommy McCook and a young Michael Rose. But it's essentially the same song repeated over two 75-minute CDs. No fear; it's one of the greatest pieces of music ever. Think of it as a symphony. --D. Strauss