Originally released on KLIK Records, in 1975, ‘Dread Locks Dread’ became one of the new Front Line label’s first key releases when reissued in 1978. One of reggae’s best and most recognizable ‘toasters’, Big Youth broke new ground as a DJ in the early ’70s with a flowing, chant-like cadence that was equal parts melodic and invigorating, applying his infectious vocal approach to heavy social and political lyrics. A huge favourite of the punk and new wave artists at the time of release, Big Youth was embraced by The Clash, via Don Letts, and PiL, amongst others. ‘Dread Locks Dread’ skanks from punchy, rhythm-heavy reggae to the deepest, dubbiest roots. The hypnotic ‘Some Like It Dread’ reworks Dennis Brown’s ‘Some Like It Hot’, where the DJ’s toast is entwined with a bluesy harmonica (the dub version re-titled ‘Black Man Message’).
