v.a.: jahtarian dubbers vol. 5
Francisco Espregueira
Celebrating two decades of reggae oddness from Leipzig, Jahtari Music unleashes Jahtarian Dubbers Vol. 5, a fresh compilation brimming with all-new outsider dubs, dancehall anthems, and earth-shaking low-end frequencies. Marking the first addition to this seminal series in over a decade, the compilation kicks off with a poignant note: 'The Loop Jerk' by the late DJ and activist Dave Watts (KingLMan). From there, the sonic journey traverses a diverse landscape, featuring Kiki Hitomi's raw yet sweet "Red Mustang," a Japanese lo-fi reggae gem, and UK producer Kris Kemist's meditative synth and drum machine jam, "Casio HipHop." Singjay El Fata injects positive vibes with the synth-drenched dancehall scorcher "Boom Sound," while Jura Soundsystem effortlessly shifts into Sly & Robbie mode with the hypnotic "On My Way (Dub)."
The flip side continues this eclectic voyage, launching with Pupajim's prophetic "Tidal Wave" in an epic extended Disco Dub version, courtesy of digi-reggae specialist Raggattack. Melodica maestro Taka Noda and synth shaman Danny Wolfers (Legowelt) then enter a deep magnetic communion on "Cabal of Puppeteers," followed by DJ veteran Speng Bond's chanting over a spaced-out dub by Jahtari co-founder Rootah. The sonic adventure culminates with Gameboy wizard DJ Scotch Egg joining forces with Pablo Volt for a mind-bending trip from synth-heavy roots reggae to free jazz on Namahage's "Voidout Dub," before Tiiu Helinä and Tapes close out the collection with a hazy and mystical ambient dub version of "Muuri." Jahtarian Dubbers Vol. 5, lovingly mixed by disrupt, is a testament to Jahtari's enduring spirit of sonic exploration and their dedication to the outer realms of reggae and dub music. Available on vinyl with the iconic artwork done by Disko 69. Baked frequencieeeees.