Information/Write-up
I first met Jackie on a record label.
I had taken keen interest in playing Byron Lee’s Ram Jam and noted it was written by a “J. Mittoo”. It’s ironic that Carl Dehaney, producer on Jackie’s first Canadian release, WISHBONE, should have asked my opinion before releasing it. After one listen I told him it was a winner ... could I have first play? It’s always nice to be first to introduce a hit!
So it is now, with Reggae Magic.
Jackie explains Reggae as a cross between calypso and jazz. Starting as a Ska, it picked up a bit of American Soul along the way. A Caribbean skip ... like a jump later and found itself as Reggae — a far together beat and a still Good Time People — happy. Relax, let’s go step for that that keeps body and feet moving with the tempo, asking for more.
The man Mittoo lives his music, emotion-filled, looking more for his inspiration from the life he lives rather than a piano when he sits down. His confidence for getting instant start, a Jamaican he was for, and his understanding of being a person of people allows the gift of his music to be appreciated in many different ways — the one constant being the identification that this young man makes. From this 24-year old’s fingers, come honest music — so real — so right.
Reggae Magic! Her, where rhythm makes strong believable hits. Where the beat is so strong, it stays with you. You can’t help but move to the beat. If you like music, Rock Steady, Soul and Reggae, you’ll enjoy the sounds of this great Canadian Jamaican. (his music is played by some 20 radio stations — When I suggested them for inclusion — WISHBONE cut — was given instant airplay.)
Jackie Mittoo’s Reggae Magic
Play it.....YOU’LL LIKE it!
Carl Banas
CKFM Toronto
September, 1972
Rhythm arrangements, string and brass arrangements by Jackie Mittoo
String and brass arrangements by Carl Dehaney
Produced by Carl Dehaney
Engineered by Dave Green, assisted by Bob Stone
Product co-ordinator and design by Bob Stone
Executive producers: Anthony Collins and Carl Banas
Recorded at Manta Sound, Toronto, Ontario
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