One in a Million

Shanachie's One in a Million is actually a reissue of the 1982 Greensleeves 10" Operation Eradication, which itself was a compilation of early Yellowman singles. Confusing history aside, it's a fantastic set and includes many songs that still play a part in Yellowman's shows. "Them a Mad Over Me" turned out to be his anthem and "Shorties" was such a famous slack song it caused Peter Tosh to denounce Yellowman and his dirty talking imitators. Using the Itals' "In a Dis Ya Time" rhythm, "Operation Eradication" has an infectious hook, some fantastic vocal sparring with the late Fat Head, and remains Yellowman's greatest political observation. "Morning Ride" and "Couchie" have been fan favorites for years, and the remaining tracks would be considered highlights on Yellowman's lesser albums. The only disappointments are the 30-minute running time and Shanachie's softening of the album's title for mass appeal. Yellowman's career would suffer the same softening, but One in a Million (or whatever you want to call it) is stupendous. ~ David Jeffries