1965
YOU'RE TOO BAD * JACKIE OPEL * STUDIO 1 * JA

By the looks of it 'Sandy' (a previous owner) gave it a double EX EX that must be good, good? it's possibly the top ten best Ska vocals of all time. From Jackie's opening remarks, to his fading repetition of the title, it's a tour de force as only Ska records can be. And although with it's theme of murder and death, the lyrics are extreme, even by West Indian (grudge) standards, it never becomes morbid or gratuitous. For me the song is something of an enigma; just who or what the song is really about I do not know, yet everything seems right, everything fits. The record also serves as a perfect example of the masterful brilliance of the drumming of Lloyd Knibbs, not as an expansive virtuoso, with elaborate drum flourishes, but the most elegant and beautiful minimalist propelling the band along with all that is needed, no more no less, using the most exquisite percussive strength and timing. I don't think this was ever released outside of Jamaica and, if that is so, it remains just one of many beautiful works, that, quite rightly, belonged only to those for whom they were made, who heard them at the optimum time, in the best possible environments, with the best possible amplification, and the best possible social situation (for the music). Thanks for this one Sandy, whoever you are.


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