Description:
Box set containing four CDs of Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry material, including original recordings, mixes and productions, from his own 1968 single ‘I Am The Upsetter’ onwards.
Which means?
The first CD covers Perry’s career, as mixologist, producer, and songwriter, from 1968 to 1971. Disc two moves on to the period 1972 to 1974. The third CD chronicles the years 1975 to 1978. Meanwhile Disc four features dub and instrumental recordings from 1974 to 1978.
Is it much cop?
More police than thieves.
How many good tracks?
Too many to mention. However, if Mistic I's 'Forward With The Orthodox' fails to move you, check your pulse. And whilst the inclusion of 'Small Axe' is justified by the track’s greatness, it’s interesting to hear a lesser-known Bob Marley and the Wailers composition 'Duppy Conqueror'. Especially, as it’s of similarly high quality.
And the worst?
None. Not even the absurd bovine impersonations on Charlie Ace & the Upsetter's 'Cow Thief Skank' or the extreme falsetto affected by Junior Murvin (think Justin Hawkins wearing even tighter trousers), especially on 'Roots Train Number One', can lessen the feel-good effect this anthology engenders.
Biggest disappointment?
Discovering what was left out. So prolific was Perry during 1968 to 1978, it would have been possible to have put out a 10-CD box set on top of what was selected for this one.
Verdict:
Much more than just up to Scratch. For those previously unaware of Perry’s music, these CDs reveal the reason he’s so well regarded in reggae circles. For LSP fans, it just confirms their hero’s legendary status. 
(4½/5)

Release Date: 21 February 2005

I Am The Upsetter