THE LEGACY

Album: Blackheart Man (Island, 1976)

The Sound: Infused with Rasta spirituality and consciousness (Fighting Against Conviction relates to his jail time, while the compassionate title track finds Christ-like transcendence and transformation), this exquisitely realised, soulful and melodious roots reggae album was the artistic equal of anything The Wailers did. His voice can be accusing as well as silken – see the endtimes Armagideon (Armagedon) – but like eight-minute, nyabinghi-country closer This Train, the ride’s ultimately a transport of delight.