Search - Junior Byles :: Beat Down Babylon

Early Roots Performer!!

Mutulu1 | Brooklyn, NYC | 10/17/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Junior Byles is a pioneer in early roots reggae. His collaboration with Lee Perry in the early '70's set the tone for many roots acts in the mid to late 70's. Records like "Beat down Babylon," "Place in Africa," and "Pharaoh Hiding" are early indications of the political and religious stance Junior was taking despite the simplicity of the records produced by Lee Perry. Junior was a die hard supporter of the People's National Party and Michael Manley. The socialist party appealed to many rastafarians. Junior's simple yet effective reggae messages during the 70's is often overlooked. His ability to make crossover hits like the popular "fever" and "Festival (Da Da)" give him credibility on both sides of the reggae fence. Junior Byles is best known for checking himself into Bellvue Hospital for supposedly going insane, but his landmark sound and messages opened doors for the ever popular roots sound."