Planet Reggae 2000 (VP, 2000)

Listening to this superb compilation, I was reminded why I got into dancehall in the first place.  The up-tempo sound -- hard-hitting and aggressive, yet fun -- is uniquely invigorating.  Planet Reggae represents dancehall (or "ragga," for you of more European tendencies) in its purest form, with nary a hint of pop or crossover leanings and with a predominance of DJs over singers (Only Wayne Wonder, Crissy D, and Devonte sing here.) chatting over hardcore, bare-bones -- yet still inventive -- beats.  Hot newcomer Lexxus shines on the hit "Ring Mi Cellie," displaying a likeably robotic, blase flow somewhat like Ward 21.   Speaking of whom, Lexxus appropriately performs the nice duet "Divine Reasoning" with Ward 21, who also contribute a the playful "Vagina."   There are no songs on Planet Reggae that I would peg as classics, but practically all are sound, my faves (besides those already mentioned) being Tanto Metro & Devonte's "Teaser" and Crissy D's "Rain Again," a remake of the Eurhythmics' "Here Comes the Rain."  A must for fans of de dancehall riddim.