In Person (2023 Reissue, Doctor Bird, 2 CDs)

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19 tracks new to CD. First CD release of breakthrough debut album outside Japan. Includes numerous major Jamaican hits from 1973/4. After making his recording debut in the late 60s, Gregory Isaacs recorded for a number of leading Jamaican record producers without ever achieving significant sustained success. His fortunes changed dramatically early in 1974, however, after he began collaborating with Alvin 'G. G. ' Ranglin, who over the previous six years had established a reputation as one of the island's most respected hit-makers. The partnership immediately paid dividends with the release of the singer's smash hit, 'Love Is Overdue', the popularity of which spurred Ranglin to record have the singer record his hugely popular debut long player. The LP provides the focus of this 2CD set, which also includes the remainder of Isaacs's recordings with Ranglin from the period, along with the very best of the producer's output from 1973, featured on disc 2. With 14 tracks unavailable on any format since their original release, this is a crucial collection for fans of the Cool Ruler and classic early 70s reggae sounds. A crucial collection for fans of the Cool Ruler and classic early 70s reggae sounds