Despite her iconic status as a female reggae deejay, Sister Nancy's catalogue of full-length releases has stayed notably modest over the decades. Back in 1982, we got both 'The Yellow, The Purple, The Nancy' (produced by Henry 'Junjo' Lawes for Greensleeves) and her debut album 'One, Two' (produced by Winston Riley for Techniques). Now, Mad Professor finally adds a third chapter to that legacy with 'Armageddon'!
By Jah Rebel
Title track ‘Armageddon’, an Ariwa spin on Sister Nancy’s own ‘I Am A Geddion’, was first released as a single in 2021, and now comes bundled with seven brand-new tracks. For the occasion, Sister Nancy called on a top-tier lineup from the UK reggae scene: Horseman on drums, Black Steel on guitar and bass, Ashanti Selah and Cyrus Richards on keys, Vin Gordon and Henry ‘Matic’ Tenue on trombone, Dave Fulwood on trumpet, and Sara Tobias on saxophone.
The sense of familiarity remains strong in tunes like ‘Guess Who Is Talking On The Microphone’, ‘Live The Life/Love The Life’ and ‘Moving Away’, respectively a reimagining of ‘Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner’ and deejay versions of The Paragons’ ‘Left With A Broken Heart’ and the eponymous Studio One classic by Ken Boothe.
Also worth highlighting are repatriation anthem ‘Africa - The Motherland’ and powerful closing track ‘Mother Of Civilisation’, a stirring tribute to womanhood.
Highly enjoyable and long overdue addition to Sister Nancy’s discography!
Catch Sister Nancy live on Saturday, August 2nd in the Dub Forest at Reggae Geel, and again on Saturday, October 18th at the Théâtre National in Brussels as part of the Festival des Libertés!
Founder alongside Jah Shakespear who transitioned to this role in late 2014. Previously worked as critic and reporter, balancing passions for music and Haile Selassie spirituality.
July 22, 2025