VP Records is celebrating the 40th anniversary of Barrington Levy’s iconic album “Prison Oval Rock” with a special expanded edition, set for release today, on January 31, 2025. Originally released in 1985 on Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes’ Jah Guidance imprint, the album was a defining moment in Levy’s career, capturing the raw energy of the dancehall scene.

The title track, “Prison Oval Rock,” was born from an unforgettable night in Spanish Town, where Levy recorded an exclusive dubplate for Volcano Sound, one of Jamaica’s top sound systems. The song became an instant anthem, later inspiring Chronixx’s 2016 hit “Spanish Town Rocking.” That legendary dance saw prisoners dancing on the roof of the Spanish Town Adult Correctional Centre, lighting up newspapers while Levy’s voice echoed through the night.

This 40th Anniversary Edition dives deep into the archives, featuring thirty-nine tracks, including remastered versions, alternate mixes, dubs, and edits. As always, Levy’s unmistakable voice is backed by the legendary Roots Radics, with production handled by Junjo Lawes and recordings done at Channel One.

Barrington Levy’s influence spans generations, from his early days in 1979 to becoming one of the few dancehall vocalists with enduring global success. His ability to bring the live energy of dancehall to record has cemented his status as one of Jamaica’s most revered voices. With this anniversary release, VP Records pays tribute to an album that continues to resonate in reggae history.