Dub

This insightful book offers a detailed look at the origins and enduring influence of dub music, showcasing its cultural significance and musical innovation.

In Dub, Michael Veal presents the first comprehensive exploration of the Jamaican reggae sub-genre that has captivated audiences worldwide. The book delves into the origins of dub music, tracing its roots back to the early 1970s when pioneering Jamaican recording engineers such as Osbourne 'King Tubby' Ruddock, Errol Thompson, and Lee 'Scratch' Perry began to innovate within the recording studio. Their groundbreaking techniques of remixing existing tracks and experimenting with sound effects led to the creation of a unique and influential musical style that continues to resonate today.

Veal meticulously examines the development of dub during reggae's 'golden age,' from the late 1960s through the early 1980s. He highlights how dub transformed the role of the recording studio, turning mixing and sound processing into instruments of real-time improvisation. This innovative approach not only changed the landscape of Jamaican music but also laid the groundwork for future genres, including hip-hop, by making technology a central component of musical expression.

Beyond its musical analysis, Dub also addresses the social significance of this genre within Jamaican culture. Veal explores how the dub revolution has transcended cultural boundaries, influencing a diverse array of musical styles around the globe for over three decades. This book is essential for anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of dub music on both the Jamaican music scene and the wider world of music.