Micron Music is one of the lesser-known Jamaican labels but with no shortage of superstar MCs and production legends. This collection, spanning 1973-76, features tracks by Joe Higgs, I Roy, Bobby Ellis, Tommy McCook, U Roy, Junior Byles, and many more, as well as deep, deep dubs by King Tubby. The first essential reggae compilation of the summer.

This roots collection from reggae stalwarts Pressure Sounds shines a light on the Micron label, a seminal yet under-appreciated Jamaican imprint from the mid-'70s that specialized in upbeat riddims and dub versions. Unlike many retrospective compilations that alienate the uninitiated and don't satiate die-hards, Every Mouth Must be Fed features accessible tracks like Junior Byles' reworking of the Motown classic "Ain't too Proud to Beg" as well as deep rarities ("Our Rights" by the Defenders and Tommy McCook's "Tribute to Muhammed Ali") that will satisfy the most entrenched dub-heads. Active from 1973 to '76, Micron Music released records by King Tubby, I-Roy, U-Roy, and Joe Higgs (who's cited as a key influence to Bob Marley's aesthetic) with production from electronic pioneers Lee 'Scratch' Perry, Bunny Lee, and label co-owner Pete Weston. These artists and some of their lesser-known brethren are present on this distinctively cohesive compilation that juxtaposes more lyrical mixes with their more exploratory dub sides. The relaxed yet up-tempo mood is maintained throughout and will provide you with a crucial soundtrack to counteract the sweltering sun. [MG] (June 27, 2008)