The oddly colorful clipart cover of this compilation seems a bit out of place in the On-U Sound catalog, but its content is certainly in line with the label's vintage dub and roots reggae sound. Reggae Archive is a compilation of tracks from On-U Sound's hard-to-find Reggae Archive series, which consisted of at least two volumes, maybe more. Unlike some of the Adrian Sherwood's label's output, this album forgoes the experimental rock and electronica sound in favor of a strict reggae vibe. It opens on a high note, literally and figuratively, as Carol Kalphat's ethereal warble plays off the contrasting deep roots groove of the best cut, "African Land." The next-best tune, Creation Rebel's "Dub Creation," was the gem of the group's Historic Movements Volume 1 and finds an echoing melodica wafting over a kinetic drum and bass line. Fans of Headley Bennett who are tired of listening to 35 Years from Alpha on a continuous loop (seriously, get help) should search out Reggae Archive to find two of his collaborations not on that album: the woozy "Revolution (Part 5)" with Singers & Players and "Two from Alpha" featuring Rico Rodriguez's sublime trombone. New Age Steppers likewise contribute a pair of tunes, a funky dub take on Chaka Khan's "Some Love" and the airy synth of "5 Dog Race/Tribute." Three tracks from Bim Sherman's bland 1982 set Across the Red Sea round out the album, two of which unfortunately bring it down at the end. Still, Reggae Archive is a cool reggae oasis that's well worth the money, especially considering this may be the only way to get some of these songs.