Name: Police In Helicopter
Brand: John Holt

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

GREL58

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Colour

Black

Colour details

Discogs ID

[r3941461]

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2021-11-12

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

Proper

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

0601811005811

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Total Cap

1 / Extended format: No / LP / Rough Trade Exclusive: No / Signed copies: No / black

GREWCD58

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2015-09-26

601811005828

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1 / CD / Extended format: No / Rough Trade Exclusive: No / Signed copies: No

Artist

John Holt

Genre GB

Reggae / Dub

Label GB

Greensleeves

Greensleeves is one of the key, longest-running and most diverse UK reggae labels. Founded by Chris Cracknell and Chris Sedgwick in 1977, it has become a renowned name in the music industry. With a rich history spanning over four decades, Greensleeves has established itself as a leading force in reggae music.

As an authoritative figure in the genre, Greensleeves has played a pivotal role in promoting and nurturing reggae talent. The label has worked with some of the most influential artists in the industry, including *Bob Marley*, *Barrington Levy*, *Yellowman*, and *Gregory Isaacs*. Its commitment to showcasing diverse styles within reggae has made it a go-to destination for fans seeking authentic and groundbreaking music.

With its label code LC 05923 / LC 5923, Greensleeves Records Ltd. continues to be at the forefront of reggae music production. In addition to its record label, Greensleeves also operates Greensleeves Publishing Ltd., further solidifying its presence as a comprehensive platform for all things reggae.

John Holt was a Jamaican reggae singer and songwriter, born on July 11, 1947 (or possibly 1942 or 1945 according to some sources) in Kingston, Jamaica. He gained international recognition for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. His music resonated with audiences worldwide and he became known as one of the pioneers of reggae music. Sadly, John Holt passed away on October 20, 2014 in London, England, UK. Despite his untimely death, his legacy lives on through his timeless music.

Back In Stock

John Holt, both as a member of the Paragons and as a solo artist, had established himself as the master of pop with a multitude of love, love lost, and other typically pop-themed hit singles. However, with Police in Helicopter, the singer reinvented himself as a more contemporary, cultural artist. The title track, a Jamaican smash, set the defiant tone, threatening, "If you continue to burn up the herbs, we're going to burn down the cane fields." "Last Train From the Ghetto" and "Reality" are cultural/Rastafarian statements of intent, while "I Got Caught" is a warning about the consequences of misdeeds.

The Roots Radics provide the rootsy accompaniment, with producer Henry "Junjo" Lawes adding his signature deep roots/dubby production, with that sublime tinge of dancehall which gave the record a totally contemporary sound. Of course, Holt didn't totally break with his past, and the rest of the record contains lighter-themed material. Hit bound "Fat She Fat" and "Private Doctor" were equal to any of the singer's previous classics, only the musical style has changed. In fact, the deepest roots track of all is "Beach Party," the perfect thematic follow-up to the Paragons classic "On the Beach." "I Got Caught," which one expects to be rootsy, is virtually rocksteady, abetted by the Tamlins' sweet backing vocals and accompanied by a flock of chirping birds. Lawes also had a field day with the saccharine "Sugar &amp; Spice," drawing in elements of rocksteady while littering the track with contemporary electro effects. The album is a masterpiece of aural illusion, as the band slide out the fat rhythms and reggae riffs, and Lawes transforms them before our eyes. Deep roots with a twist, wave a wand and, abracadabra, Holt's songs are no longer considered MOR pop, but now appeal to a more serious audience. Police is a true classic album on which a great vocalist and songwriter comes of age.

Police In Helicopter

Music GB

Buy John Holt - Police In Helicopter (Vinyl, CD) now from Rough Trade - independent purveyors of great music, since 1976.