Freddie McKay - Harsh Words (Only Roots Pressing)

1LP Vinyl - ORLP29

Freddie McKay’s self-produced 1977 LP Harsh Words has finally returned to circulation. Initially released in Jamaica on Gorgon Records, a subsidiary of Sonic Sounds, it was issued in the US by Salsoul Records’ sister label Salsoul Salsa Series in 1982. The album includes 10 tracks, featuring previously issued singles from the ’70s along with exclusive songs like the title track Harsh Words, Feel So High, and Travelling. McKay’s gritty, soulful voice is backed by top-tier musicians, including Sly & Robbie, Fish Clarke, Flabba Holt, Bingi Bunny, Ranchy McLean, Ansel Collins, Winston Wright, Bobby Ellis, Don D Jr, and Sticky.

The nearly simultaneous reissue of Freddie McKay’s LP Harsh Words by France’s Only Roots under McKay’s Amethyst label and Switzerland-based Reggae Fever under the Kismet label raises some eyebrows. France’s Only Roots claims a licensed release from Freddie McKay’s estate, while Switzerland-based Reggae Fever acknowledges Patrick Harty as the producer behind their release. Harty owns Jamaican label Kismet, known for its unofficial releases.

Condition:

Media: Mint (M)

Sleeve: Mint (M)

Track List: 

A1. Harsh Words
A2. Sun Don't Shine
A3. Feel So High
A4. All I Need Is Love
A5. Rock A Bye Woman
B1. Take My Hands Oh Jah
B2. Get So Hot
B3. Tear Drops
B4. Peace In The Garden
B5. Travelling