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Biography
Coming together while each member was still studying at the Holland Park School in Chelsea, Aswad formed in 1975 and by 1976, they became the first British reggae band to sign to a major record label. The band saw some steady success with their first couple of singles, and their self-titled debut album, but the band's profile really rose when they were tapped to back up several of the world's biggest reggae artists when they toured the U.K. They worked with everyone from Bob Marley to Black Arrow and were even featured on Burning Spear's 1977 live album recorded at the Rainbow Theatre in Finsbury Park. It wasn't until 1981 that the band would make their commercial breakthrough with their third album “New Chapter”.
By the mid-80's the band were building up some serious momentum for themselves, and in 1988 they finally broke through into the mainstream with their eleventh album “Distant Thunder”, which hurtled into the top ten of the album charts on the back of their number one single “Don't Turn Around”. Since then, singer Tony Robinson has continued to lead the band to this very day, releasing an absolute multitude of studio albums and playing live shows that are better than ever, thanks to the band's 40 years of experience. For being one of the true legends of reggae, Aswad come highly recommended.
Live reviews
As a reggae band who have been around for over 30 years, so they have plenty of awesome tracks to pick from when they’re playing a live show. They’ve got a following of both young and older generations, so had to be great at catering their show for fans of every era of their music.
Seeing them live was amazing. Their vocals and talents on their instruments was simply outstanding, and they had the entire audience captivated from the offset. They opened with Hooked On You, and then introduced themselves one at a time. It was really cool to be able to hear them chat a little but about the lyrics and motivations of their tracks, and then hearing them live after a brief explanation made them even more special.
As well as playing the older hits, they played some songs from City Lock, as well as adding in a couple of covers throughout the set. You could tell that they were real crows pleasers, getting everyone to sing and dance along, and picking out people individually to speak to, which made the entire event seem really personal. I really hope they keep bringing out new music, it never gets old or tired!
yazhow
It was excellent every band members playing his part from trombonist hiding in back and coming to do his bit at front
The guitarist at front just in front of me was excellent with his play and the two singers were brilliant leaving don't turn around and shine to end f show finished a memorable night
Plus the lead singer and base guitarist nearly tripping over his guitar lead they were laughing so much such brilliant night
michael-waite-1
I've been a fan and followed Aswad since 1984... I've seen many changes to their line up over the years from the front men to the backing musicians..But one thing has never changed & that is their ability to produce a show that makes you want to see them again & again..From my 1st time in October 1984 to my next time in August 2025.. I've lost count of how many cities I've visited to see them & they never fail to please!!!
hazel-west-1
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