「Various – Studio One Kings」は、ジャマイカ音楽の黄金期を象徴するコンピレーションアルバムだ。Studio Oneレーベルのトップアーティストたちによる魂を揺さぶる楽曲が満載。「Declaration of Rights」では、Rootsの力強さとメッセージ性が融合し、社会的な問題を考えさせる。「Love Me Forever」は、甘美なメロディーと心地よいリズムが絶妙に調和し、恋愛の美しさを讃える感動的な一曲。また、「Swing Easy」は、スウィング感溢れるリズムが身体を揺らし、楽しさと軽快さをもたらす。アルバム全体を通して、Studio Oneのスタイリッシュで時代を超越した音楽の魅力を存分に味わえる。アーティストたちの深い表現力とレーベルの音楽的なビジョンが見事に融合した一枚で、ジャマイカ音楽の貴重な遺産を感じさせる至高の体験だ。

A1    Larry Marshall–    I've Got To Make It
Written-By – Clement Dodd*, Larry Marshall     2:54
A2    Horace Andy–    Every Tongue Shall Tell
Written-By – Horace Hinds     2:22
A3    Alton Ellis–    The Well Run Dry
Written-By – Alton Ellis, Clement Dodd*     2:32
A4    Johnny Osbourne–    Water More Than Flour
Written-By – Johnny Osbourne     6:11
B1    Anthony Rocky Ellis–    I'm The Ruler
Written-By – Anthony Ellis*     2:17
B2    Cornell Campbell–    Pretty Looks Isn't All
Written-By – Freddie McKay     2:31
B3    Alexander Henry–    Please Be True
Written-By – Alexander Henry     2:40
B4    Burning Spear–    Them A Come
Written-By – Clement Dodd*, Winston Rodney     3:11
B5    Joe Higgs–    Change Of Plan
Written-By – Joseph Benjamin Higgs*     2:09
B6    Devon Russell–    Roots Natty
Written-By – Albert Griffiths, Clement Dodd*     2:58
C1    Ken Boothe–    Be Yourself
Written-By – Harris Seaton, Ken Boothe     2:18
C2    Freddie McGregor–    I Shall Be Released
Written-By – Bob Dylan     10:05
C3    Freddie McKay–    Father Will Cut You Off
Written-By – Freddie McKay     2:49
D1    The Ethiopian–    Locust
Written-By – Leonard Dillon     4:17
D2    George Philip–    One One
Written-By – Delroy Wilson, Roland Alphonso     3:04
D3    John Holt–    I Don't Want To See You Cry
Written-By – Keith Anderson (4)     2:46
D4    Delroy Wilson–    Won't You Come Home Now    6:54

"Various – Studio One Kings" is a compilation album that epitomizes Jamaica's golden era of music. It features soul-stirring tracks by top artists from the Studio One label. For instance, "Declaration of Rights" blends Roots' strength with its message, prompting listeners to ponder social issues. "Love Me Forever" harmonizes sweet melodies and soothing rhythms, celebrating the beauty of romance. Additionally, "Swing Easy" sways with a swing feel, bringing joy and lightness. Throughout the album, you can fully appreciate Studio One's stylish, timeless music. It's a masterpiece where artists' profound expressions and the label's musical vision blend seamlessly, offering a sublime experience that embodies Jamaica's musical heritage.