This is an Enhanced CD, which contains both regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.

Whether Toots Hibbert coined the term "reggae" with his 1968 hit "Do the Reggay" or not, it's indisputable that he's been a major force in the music since his hit 1966 jailbird anthem "54-46 That's My Number." Collecting a dozen of Toots and the Maytals' best-known hits, this volume of Trojan's THIS IS CRUCIAL REGGAE series provides an easily digestible overview of the high points of Hibbert's career.

"Funky Kingston" points up Otis Redding's strong influence on Toots, as well as including keyboards courtesy of an uncredited Steve Winwood. The unstoppable rhythm of "Pressure Drop," the majestic horn arrangement of "Pomps and Pride," and the sheer irrepressible joy of the vocals in "Sweet and Dandy" are all worth the price of admission by themselves. The addition of the unlikely but extremely successful cover of John Denver's "(Take Me Home) Country Roads," and the little-heard "She's My Scorcher," as well as the infectiously danceable "Monkey Man," make this collection a valuable primer to the world of Toots and the Maytals.