This is the inaugural volume of the Disco Devil discomix series, spotlighting five extended vocal-to-dub mixes carved from the creative crucible of Kingston’s Black Ark Studio between 1977 and 1979.
This compilation, released by Studio 16 Records under the Black Art imprint, features:
- Disco Devil — Lee Perry & The Full Experience
- Lion A De Winner — Lee Perry
- Dispensation — Winston Watson & Dellenger
- Such Is Life — Lord Creator
- Roots Train — Junior Murvin
These selections showcase Perry’s signature fusion of dub bravado and reggae roots vibes. Working within the constraints of a modest 4-track reel-to-reel setup, Perry accomplished highly nuanced textures through experimental layering, echo, and analog warmth—defining the legendary Black Ark aesthetic. The “discomix” format—originally conceived for sound system DJs—elevates extended grooves with seamless transitions between vocal and instrumental dub passages, making this collection both a dancefloor instrument and a studio marvel.
