A masterful slice of lovers rock blended with roots sensibility, Changes finds the legendary Alton Ellis—often called the “Godfather of Rocksteady”—navigating the evolving sonic landscape of early 1980s reggae. This LP captures Ellis in a transitional era, balancing heartfelt romanticism with conscious cultural overtones.
Known for pioneering the rocksteady genre in the late 1960s, Alton Ellis adapted to reggae’s shifting rhythms with grace and depth. Changes is a testament to his versatility, showcasing soulful vocals, minimalist rhythms, and socially aware lyricism that resonated with audiences in both Jamaica and the UK.
This album bridges eras. In 1981, reggae was diversifying—dancehall was emerging, roots was politically charged, and lovers rock was gaining traction in Black British communities. Changes stands out as a refined artifact of that era: deeply emotional, rhythmically clean, and lyrically intimate. Ellis’ timeless vocal delivery helped define lovers rock as more than a genre—it became a cultural movement centered on healing, dignity, and connection.
Recommended For: Collectors of vintage reggae and lovers rock; fans of Alton Ellis, Dennis Brown, and Sugar Minott; sound system DJs seeking mellow vocal selections; listeners exploring the evolution of Jamaican music in the early ’80s.
