Black Uhuru X Michael Rose X Uhuru

This is the very first vinyl release of X Uhuru, the first and only album bringing together Michael Rose and Sly and Robbie after the golden years of the legendary Black Uhuru line-up between 1978 and 1984.

Recorded in the early 1990s, X Uhuru doesn’t just highlight the timeless brilliance of reggae - it elevates it with a modern touch, blending traditional roots with innovative sounds that resonate across generations.

Rather than trying to recreate the old Black Uhuru sound, Sly and Robbie crafted a groundbreaking approach to accompany the legendary Grammy Award-winning voice of Michael Rose.

X Uhuru is a journey through a kaleidoscope of emotions and rhythms, where Michael Rose brings his iconic voice and powerful lyrics, skilfully weaving stories of freedom, resilience and unity. Sly and Robbie’s production delivers the unique and sophisticated Taxi sound, making this album a must for music lovers. Tracks like ‘Come Home’ feature subtle double-tempo echo effects, enough to make any aspiring junglist green with envy.

Michael Rose made history in roots reggae as a founding member of Black Uhuru, a revolutionary vocal trio whose dark harmonies, modal melodies and committed vision opened a new path on the reggae scene of the 1970s and 1980s. This 1999 album ranks among his finest achievements. The rhythms combine the futuristic power of digital ragga with the depth of classic roots reggae grooves, while Michael Rose’s distinctive North African-style vocalizations and piercing voice cut through the mix with deadly precision.