Jahrukus are a soulful roots-reggae collective, active on the Melbourne club scene circa 2005. Their sole recorded output, their self-titled CD released in 2008, sold out a limited run direct to fans at shows. For the first time, two incredible recordings from the album get a much overdue remaster and vinyl release courtesy of Soul Messin’ Records, Australia’s home of soul, roots and jazz.

The A side sees Jahrukus pay respect to the late great David Bowie with the world’s first reggae inspired cut of 1980 classic “Ashes to Ashes”. Recorded above a smash repairs shop in the south of Melbourne between 1-5am (after gigs but before the shop opened), the idea to take on a cover song was premised by a fan at a live shows who said ‘this band is so good you could re-work any song into a reggae jam’.

“Island Girl feat. Bunny Rugs” (Heerah, Hirini, Kopa, Bekker, Clark, Mason) is the band’s first original track released to wax, featuring Kingston’s late Bunny Rugs who is best known for his work with Third World and Inner Circle. Joining the band for a one-off recording session during his brief tour to Melbourne, Rugs brought the authentic sounds of Jamaica to the bands makeshift loft studio.

Soul Messin’ Records is Australia’s newest soul and jazz imprint and home to Australia’s premier artists including Cookin’ on 3 Burners, Jake Mason Trio and The Soul Messin’ Allstars. Specialising in quality vinyl releases for soul, roots and jazz connoisseurs, creating a distinctive and unique catalogue, perfectly capturing the sound of Australia.