MAD PROFESSOR, VARIOUS - Melodies International presents Ariwa Sounds MAD PROFESSOR, VARIOUS

In 1979, Neil Fraser (artistically known as Mad Professor) founded Ariwa Sounds, the longest-serving and one of the most influential independently owned reggae studios and record labels in the UK. From humble beginnings set up in the front room of Neil’s home in South London, recording on 4-track and homemade equipment, Ariwa would go on to record and release over 300 albums, including works from some of the most impactful and storied artists in reggae, dub, and lovers rock.

Whilst a previous release in collaboration with Ariwa captured the label’s early sound, a shared performance with Neil in Osaka and regular visits to his South London studio inspired this 15-track compilation, showcasing the label’s output across 45 years. The release emphasizes some of the label’s greatest vocalists: Johnny Clarke, Sandra Cross, Kofi, U Roy, Sister Nancy, Queen Omega, Aisha, Garnett Cross, Abel Miller, Horace Andy and more. It highlights the Motown and Stax influences in lovers rock, while also providing a glimpse into the dubbier and more experimental side of the label, showcasing Ariwa’s commitment to quality as well as its personality, philosophy and humour.

Love songs, break-up songs, socially engaged songs, dub experimentations, this compilation is not a “best of” Ariwa but a diverse and honest celebration of the label through the lens of Melodies International.

The compilation will be released in July on vinyl 2xLP, CD, and digital formats, mastered from the original tapes by Frank Merritt (the Carvery), pressed at Optimal, with artwork created by Jason Evans, design and assembly contributions from Nevil Bernard and Will Sweeney, an animated teaser by Nevil Bernard, and Melozine designed by Mafalda Meireles.