NIX Punky Reggae Party

WHAT’S THIS ONE ABOUT?

This is where the sharp elbows of punk meet the space and weight of reggae. Ska puts a spring in its step; dub leaves room for the bass to do the talking.

The running order opens with Bob Marley’s live “Punky Reggae Party”, then The Clash’s “(White Man) in Hammersmith Palais”. Junior Murvin’s “Police And Thieves” sits right beside The Clash’s version. Same song, different temperature. That’s the idea in miniature.

The Specials, Madness, The Beat and The Selecter keep it moving, before roots reggae and the rougher edge of The Ruts take their turns. Musical Youth’s “Pass The Dutchie” appears near the finish; Stiff Little Fingers get the last word with “Alternative Ulster”. Nobody promised a quiet exit.

LISTEN OUT FOR

The bass
Try “The Guns of Brixton”. Follow the low end before you follow the vocal. Leave a little space around the speaker; let it breathe.

The contrast
Play the two versions of “Police And Thieves” back to back. Listen for what changes when the song crosses into The Clash’s hands.

The atmosphere
“Ghost Town” is the one to give your full attention. Don’t rush past the spaces between the sounds.

The wildcard
“Alternative Ulster” closes the party. If the reggae has persuaded you to settle into the chair, that should sort it.

BEST HEARD ON

My vote: Vanilla, parked up for the evening, with the driving finished and something cold within reach. A Bose SoundLink Micro or the B&O Beosound Explore will get the party started; at home, I’d give the original HomePods a turn.

Start at a sensible volume. See how long “sensible” lasts.