Chris And Duke Peckings are continuing the legacy of their father George ‘Peckings’ Price. He was the first to bring Jamaican records to London after moving with his wife Gertrude in 1960. With his close links to Coxsone Dodd and other producers, he initially supplied famous sounds and labels. In 1974 he opened the now renowned shop on Askew Road, recently honoured with a blue plaque.
At first it was older brothers Tony and Trevor who took over the shop after their father sadly passed in 1994, and then Chris and Duke. They’ve now released almost 100 albums and singles, taking the label to new heights, breaking many artists, as well as making the shop a hub for the reggae community. A trip to Peckings is a must for any reggae lover.
Chris and Duke have been busy of late, putting out a slew of excellent releases on the roots front. “Conquering Lion of Judah” by Jah Mega, “Warning” by Ras Sherby that’s been rumbling up Channel One dances, Miss KJah and Gappy Ranks on a sweet version of the Dennis Brown classic “Ain’t That Loving You” with Gappy’s wicked “Tribute to Robert Nesta Marley” on the flip, along with some classic Treasure Isle reissues.
My pick for Track of the Week however is “Tribute to Fela”, a great instrumental from the Peckings All-Stars. It reworks the riddim from Tommy McCook’s “Jah I”, with some Fela style sax and horns to tear it up. It’s a bit funky, a bit jazzy, 100% niceness. On the flip is an organ led version to the Monty Morris tune, “Sampson”. The original Tommy McCook piece is also available on another 7” titled “Fela Rock”.
“Tribute to Fela” is available on 7″ or digital download.
More info:
Tribute to Fela – Peckings Bandcamp
