#25 of 25
· Cratewise Editorial
Under Heavy Manners
Prince Far I
Year
1977
Genre
Reggae/DubLabel
Joe Gibbs
Format
Vinyl LP
“The Psalms of Dub. Prince Far I's deep-voiced toasting over Errol Thompson's heavy, spacious rhythms. More spoken word than singing, more sermon than music. Joe Gibbs production. The heaviest record on this list. Pressure Sounds reissue, under $25.”
Prince Far I (Michael James Bernard Henriques) was a Jamaican reggae and roots musician born in 1944, known for his powerful, distinctive vocal style and conscious lyrics. He emerged from the Kingston sound system scene in the 1970s and became a prominent figure in roots reggae, recording prolifically for various labels including Black Art and Joe Gibbs Productions. His career spanned several decades, during which he released numerous albums blending reggae, dub, and spiritual themes. He was tragically killed in Kingston in 1984, but his influential catalog remains respected within reggae circles and continues to be sought by vinyl collectors interested in conscious reggae and roots music from the 1970s-80s era.
Style
Prince Far I is renowned for his deep, commanding vocal delivery layered over roots reggae and dub production, often featuring socially conscious and spiritually-minded lyrics with heavy Rastafarian themes.
Significance
As a respected roots reggae vocalist with a distinctive voice and substantial catalog, Prince Far I holds significant value for vinyl collectors focused on 1970s-80s reggae, dub, and conscious music. His recordings, particularly original pressings from his various label releases, are considered important artifacts of Jamaican roots reggae history.
Under Heavy Manners (1978) marks Prince Far I's emergence as a distinctive voice in roots reggae and dub poetry. The Jamaican artist, born Michael William, crafted this album during a period of intense creative exploration, blending spoken word with heavy reggae rhythms. The production showcases the influence of Jamaica's vibrant studio culture of the late 1970s, with deep bass lines and echoing vocals characteristic of the era's dub innovations. Prince Far I's delivery—urgent and prophetic—became a hallmark of his work, as he addressed social and spiritual themes with poetic intensity. The album was recorded in Jamaica and reflects the artist's commitment to consciousness-raising through reggae music, positioning him alongside other roots and dub poets of the era.
Historical Context
Released in 1978, Under Heavy Manners arrived during a pivotal moment in reggae history, following Bob Marley's international breakthrough and the continued evolution of dub and roots reggae. The late 1970s saw increasing interest in reggae's conscious, spiritually-oriented strains, with dub poetry emerging as a powerful alternative to mainstream reggae. Prince Far I's album fit into this landscape of artistic experimentation and social commentary. While not achieving mainstream commercial success in the UK or US, the album resonated with reggae enthusiasts and contributed to the underground roots reggae movement, earning respect from collectors and musicians attuned to Jamaica's most progressive sounds.
Pressing Notes
Under Heavy Manners was released on the Jamaican label, with original pressings typically appearing on Island Records and regional Caribbean labels. Vinyl collectors should note that original Jamaican pressings often feature minimal packaging and varying audio quality typical of 1970s island productions. The album has seen reissue interest in recent decades as Prince Far I's reputation has grown among dub and reggae scholars. Collectors seeking original editions should verify pressing quality, as first presses can vary significantly. Reissues on labels specializing in roots reggae have made the album more accessible, though original 1970s copies remain sought-after for their sonic character and historical authenticity.
King Tubbys Meets Rockers Uptown
Augustus Pablo
Landmark dub album featuring heavy melodica work and spacious production that aligns with the meditative, echo-laden sound of Under Heavy Manners.
Marcus Garvey
Burning Spear
Raw roots reggae with conscious Rastafarian themes and deep spiritual vocals that complement Prince Far I's lyrical and philosophical approach.
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