Aswad Albums (19)
What The Critics Say
For more than three decades now, Aswad have persisted as one of England's most popular and consistent reggae acts. To a significant degree, the group's staying power can be attributed to its principled flexibility: without ever losing touch with its reggae roots, the band has effectively incorporated dancehall, techno, pop, and R&B elements into its sound, gradually creating a smart and complex hybrid sound that appeals to a wide variety of listeners. This album, on which Aswad collaborate with British techno duo the Rhythm Riders (Danny Briottet and Tim Bran), is a classic example of Aswad's approach. Everywhere is fusion and experimentation -- the zippy and slightly jungly "Come with the Love," a sort of soca-house update of the band's early classic "African Children," the dreamy, almost ambient "Under Palm Trees" -- but nowhere does this sound like anything other than an Aswad album. What the Rhythm Riders bring is a particular warmth and funkiness, along with an electro edge that nicely complements Aswad's natural tendency toward slick modern roots reggae. Guests include DJs Brother Culture, Soloman (who delivers a fine speed rap on "Come with the Love"), and Sweetie Irie. Very, very nice. ~ Rick Anderson, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Roots Revival is an apt title for this album, since Aswad's greatest successes have been as a pop-reggae crossover band, most notably with the huge 1988 hit "Don't Turn Around." On this one the group returns to its roots with a vengeance. The sound is still pretty slick, but the material includes a remake of Ken Boothe's rocksteady classic "Freedom Street," two seldom-covered Bob Marley tunes ("Caution" and "Thank You Lord"), a decent cover of the Police's "Invisible Sun" (featuring Sting in a guest appearance), and a bunch of relatively roots-wise new originals. The only remaining members of the band, Drummie Zeb and Tony Gad still have a great melodic sense, as evidenced on the smooth and silky "Follow '99" and the churning "Breakout." But the rhythms are deep and compelling as well, resulting in a sound that will move them in the dancehall even as it pleases more roots-oriented fans. ~ Rick Anderson, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Not content with releasing an excellent album, Mesa and Aswad have taken said album, revised it, brightened it, added assorted alternate and remix versions, tuned up all of the songs, and put it out again. It's still an excellent collection of reggae numbers, with an accent on dancehall, though the collection now sounds quite a bit more commercial and punchy. For those looking for something more on the commercial tip, but still worth airing. ~ Steven McDonald, All Music Guide
'Rise and Shine'
Release Date 7/29/1994
Tracks 14
Label Mesa/Bluemoon
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
Contains the wonderful single "Bubbling" and good vocal harmonies. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide
'Jah Shaka Meets Aswad in Addis Ababa Studio'
Release Date 8/1/1988
Tracks 7
Label Jah Shaka
See Album Tracklist and Review
