Anything For Jah b/w Anything for Dub Rob Symeonn
The inaugural release from Easy Star Records, "Anything For Jah" by Rob Symeonn, serves as the cornerstone for a label that would eventually redefine the global reach of modern reggae. Released as a 7-inch vinyl single, the track is a masterclass in the "roots and culture" aesthetic that dominated the New York City reggae scene in the late '90s. Featuring the veteran toast of Ranking Joe, the single bridged the gap between the foundation era of Jamaican sound system culture and the burgeoning independent movement in the United States. It wasn't just a debut; it was a mission statement, establishing a commitment to high-fidelity production and authentic songwriting that remains the label's hallmark.
Musically, the track leans into a heavy, meditative rhythm that highlights Symeonn's soulful, unassuming delivery. The production by Michael Goldwasser—who would later helm the label's massive DUB SIDE OF THE MOON project—showcases an early penchant for crisp, analog textures and spacious arrangements. The B-side, "Anything for Dub," strips the track down to its skeletal essentials, allowing the bassline to drive the narrative in true King Tubby-inspired fashion. This early collaboration between Symeonn and the Easy Star All-Stars production team set the stage for future roster staples like The Meditations and Sugar Minott, who would similarly find a home for their veteran talents under the Easy Star banner.
Within the broader context of the Easy Star catalog, "Anything For Jah" acts as the stylistic DNA for everything that followed. While the label gained international fame for its ambitious tribute albums, its heart has always remained in the discovery and promotion of singular voices like Symeonn. The single's raw, physical presence as a 7-inch dubplate reflected a DIY ethos that continues to influence the label's current roster, from the soulful explorations of The Expanders to the progressive sounds of Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad. It remains a definitive piece of New York reggae history, capturing a moment when a small group of enthusiasts turned their passion for the "version" into a lasting legacy.
