Island 12”, 1977
It was with great sadness that I read of Junior Murvin’s passing today. It seems only fitting to feature one of his tunes this week.
‘Tedious’ is one of his tracks from the classic ‘Police and Theives’ set, co-written and produced with Lee Scratch Perry. Murvin’s unique falsetto voice sets him apart from the crowd.
Although he recorded for most of the leading producers throughout his career such as Sonia Pottinger, Derrick Harriot, Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes, Prince Jammy, and King Tubby, the ‘Police and Thieves’ set with Scratch cemented his place in reggae history. His falsetto voice complimenting Perry’s unique and mystical production style from the Black Ark. For me, this set rates up there with the ‘Heart of the Congos’ as some of Scratch’s finest work.
A fierce and stomping bassline with militant snares and percussion, form the heart of the rhythm for ‘Tedious’. Murvin’s vocal floats on top of it with his biblically inspired, conscious message. With Scratch working his magic on the desk and the Congos providing the backing vocals, it all comes together for an essential and classic slice of 70s steppers roots.
R.I.P Junior Murvin, another legend who will be sorely missed.
Conviction Roots
