5 Years On: The Gregory Isaacs Reissues That Brought Jet Star Gems to Vinyl

Five years ago this week, Demon Records reissued two of Jet Star’s classic Gregory Isaacs albums on vinyl for the very first time - Rat Patrol (2001) and I Am Gregory (1993), both originally released on our Charm imprint.

Known for his effortlessly cool vocal delivery and rude boy charisma, Gregory Isaacs defined an era of lovers rock and dancehall. While much of his catalogue has been revisited over the years, these two albums stood as underrated gems, until Demon Records gave them the vinyl treatment in 2020.

💿 Rat Patrol (2001)

Originally released on Jet Star’s Charm label, Rat Patrol blends laidback lovers ballads with gritty dancehall cuts. The 2020 reissue marked the album’s vinyl debut, complete with printed inner sleeve and liner notes by reggae journalist John Masouri.

💿 I Am Gregory (1993)

Co-produced by Gregory himself and his wife June Isaacs, this intimate album features standout tracks like Goosie Gander, Mommy Doesn’t Understand, and a cover of Bob Marley’s I Am Still Waiting. Demon Records’ 2020 pressing marked its first time on vinyl, giving the album a fresh spin for collectors and new listeners alike.

While Jet Star was proud to release these projects in their original form, the 2020 reissues helped bring them to a new generation of reggae fans and vinyl lovers. Five years on, they stand as a reminder of Gregory’s prolific output and enduring charm.