AMG Review of Anthology

Rosalind Cummings-Yeates
All Music Guide

Like Bob Marley and the Wailers, Freddie McGregor started his career as part of the legendary Studio One cadre of Jamaican crooners. Golden-voiced and subtly charismatic, he has been a consistently popular singer since the '60s. The Anthology presents a brilliant overview of Freddie McGregor's deep impact on Jamaican music. Opening with his best-known hits, the '80s classics "Big Ship" and "Stop Loving You," McGregor's soulful talent is unquestionable, but it's on the rare Studio One tracks that a glimpse of his skilled ability to translate emotion is really evident. From the haunting melody on "Africa Here I Come" to his caressing delivery on "Bobby Babylon" to the flawless harmonies on "Bandulu," he paints landscapes of feeling and longing. The Anthology is an essential addition to all reggae collections.