Underground Classic : “Observation Station” by Niney the Observer
Niney the Observer
Observation Station (Heartbeat, 1990)
I dug up this album in a novelty store in Venice Beach, California back in 2007, and it provoked all kinds of questions, starting with, “Who is this eccentric-looking dude with a gold chain and Yoko Ono glasses?” Turns out, Winston Holness, better known as “Niney the Observer” (1) was one of Jamaica’s most sought after producers in the 1970s. He produced tracks through the 1990s for artists in their prime from Dennis Brown, Delroy Wilson, and Freddie McGregor to Beenie Man, Sugar Minott, and Yami Bolo.
“Observation Station” (1990) offers 18 tracks recorded mainly in the 1970s, with a distinct sound that is backed by the brilliant and omnipresent Soul Syndicate band. You’ll find rare numbers such as “Tribute to Donald Quarrie” by Bongo Herman, and “Tumbling Down” by Keeling Beckford, as well as familiar treats like Black Uhuru legend Michael Rose’s mellow rendition of “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”. Still, it’s the mixture of heavy and uplifting tracks like Dennis Brown’s “No More Will I Roam” and Niney the Observer’s “Rasta No Pickpocket” that exemplifies a diverse and sometimes whimsical style that’s exclusive to Niney.
When revolutionary rhythms and lyrics are graced by some of the most memorable vocalists in reggae music, it’s a wrap. Throw in a dash of dub, and you have one of the most interesting classic reggae compilations there ever was.
Stream the album on Spotify, Amazon, or Apple Music.
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Footnote:
1) Holness gained his nickname "Niney" after losing a thumb in a workshop accident. Thompson, Dave (2002) "Reggae & Caribbean Music", Backbeat Books
