Dont Stay Away Riddim – Peckings Records

In 2008, when roots and lovers rock reissues were rubbing shoulders with newer reggae cuts, Peckings Records lined up a neat little vocal showcase around the old Phyllis Dillon favorite “Don’t Stay Away. ” The label’s family-run Kingston-to-London pedigree has long made it a reliable home for classic-minded reggae, and this set leans into that strength with singers from different corners of the style book. Phyllis Dillon and Carrol Thompson give the early stretch its sweetest edge, Luciano brings a sharper modern roots charge on “Running For My Life, ” and Leroy Mafia’s “Brag And Boast” closes things with a tougher finish. With U-Roy tucked in at the end of the sequence, the tracklist feels deliberately arranged: a respectful nod to the original tune, then a steady run of versions that move from lovers rock warmth into deeper roots territory.