![1990 1990](http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_67NiaEmvgck/SM-sTvNqJUI/AAAAAAAAA5k/fV-qmHl6NdU/s320/745158.jpg)
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This is the first of four albums the Heartbeat label has released featuring ' work with producer (the other three are, The Best of Gregory Isaacs, Vol. 1, and The Best of Gregory Isaacs, Vol. 2, with the latter pair since repackaged as a single disc).
The producer was responsible for giving the singer his first number one hit, 'Love Is Overdue,' in 1974, and their partnership remained particularly fruitful, but not exclusive. So while much of the best of ' mid- to late-'70s work can be found across this and the other aforementioned albums, there's other equally stunning material still out there from this period. That said, another qualification needs to be made: Many of the hits included here are not the original versions, but either extended mixes or alternate takes. But don't think that makes of interest to collectors only. You may not get the single version of the title track, but in its stead comes Trinity's spectacular DJ version, and it's not to be missed. Nor is U-Brown's fiery version of 'Border.'
![One One](http://static.unitedreggae.com/music/disc/disc-2926-gregory-isaacs-the-ruler-1972-1990.jpg)
DJ Ranking Barnabbas takes on two further songs, including a fabulous version of 'Tumbling Tears.' Also of interest is an alternate take of 'Lonely Days.' The rest of the record is fleshed out by original 45s, including the superb 'Philistines' and a few tracks culled from albums also produced by Ranglin. To say this is Isaccs at his height would merely slight his equally powerful later work, but this is certainly a clutch of crucial cuts from one of Jamaica's greatest artists.
Released almost a year after his death at the age of 59, The Ruler: 1972-1990 is a fantastic 40-track collection covering the smooth reggae crooner’s best years. Heartbreak, heartache, and occasional social commentary were well within Gregory Isaacs' grasp, with all of it delivered in a convincingly reserved tone, earning him the nickname “The Cool Ruler.” The quintessential numbers are almost all here, with “My Only Lover,” “My Number One,” “Mr.
Cop,” “Night Nurse,” “Rumours,” and “Red Rose for Gregory” making this one stellar track list. The stern uprising track “Slave Master” is here, too, although in a live version. Still, it’s a very good version and the compilation’s excellent second-tier selections more than make up for it; plus, to get some extended mixes as well is absolute gravy. Buy the physical release and a live 1984 show from the Brixton Academy is included on DVD, and the booklet features a welcome essay from Steve “Serpiente” Stromberg along with track-by-track commentary. David Jeffries.