1982 Rico “Jama Rico” on Two-Tone Records

You know what I love? Anything on Two-Tone. Also, any record with a song called “Destroy Them”, plus any UK-Cuban ska, plus British music from the early 80’s that in no way was involved with Malcom McLaren. I also dig soul-driven Ska with a touch of Rocksteady. I also like Cuban trombonists who helm Dancehall studio sessions heavy on trombone that sound like they would be equally at home on King’s Row as Havana as N’awlins deep into Mardi Gras. The only thing this record wants from you is to respect your inner Rude Boy, and it delivers hard. Since this is a Jerry Dammers thang, also worth mentioning that I loved that brief moment when Two Tone and its whole vibe ruled the dawn of MTV. Oh, and who plays on this one? Just Robbie Shakespeare & Sly Dunbar, Mikey Chung, Noel “Scully” Simms, Carlton “Santa” Davis, and Winston Wright. It’s pure, glorious nostalgic wonder. Oh yea.