Jamaica to Toronto

For those of you who might have thought that Memphis, Detroit and Muscle Shoals had the first and last word in 60’s soul, I have news for you. There’s a great compilation I just discovered a few days ago – Jamaica to Toronto: Soul, Funk & Reggae 1967-1974. It’s a recently released collection with a very interesting origin. Apparently, in the late 60’s, Toronto’s large West Indian population was a magnet for Jamaican touring artists who ended up emigrating there. The music that resulted is a brew light on the reggae, but heavy on the soul. It was a scene hidden from the world, but it was one of real vitality. Check out the Cougars version of the Temptations “I Wish It Would Rain.” It’s stunning.

Download: The Cougars - "I Wish It Would Rain"
Buy it at Emusic