“Black Roots”, the eponymously named debut album, was originally released in 1983 on Kick Records, by which time the band was established as one of the UK's leading live acts with a strong repertoire of socially aware songs reflecting the issues of the day. When it came to their first album, they chose eight of their strongest tracks and assembled what was to become one of the classic British reggae albums of the decade.

Featuring 8 songs “The Father”, “Survival”, “Juvenile Delinquent”, “What Them 'A Do”, “Opportunity”, “Tribal War”, “Africa” and “Move On”, the album covers themes of social alienation, deprivation, repatriation, RastafarI, violence within the black community and ends, with the tale of a failing relationship. Three decades later, many of the songs are just as relevant and provide the perfect complement to their latest recordings.

It was re-issued Bristol Archive Records on vinyl in 22nd April 2013 to coincide with Record Store Day.  The release on vinyl was strictly limited to 500 copies worldwide. 400 copies were made be available for Record Store Day, 22nd April 2013, at participating retailers and feature a facsimile of the original sleeve, whilst 100 copies will be available directly from Bristol Archive Records and very select retailers and feature a unique handmade screen printed sleeve as well as being individually numbered, a very special edition.

This was the first time that this album was available on vinyl for twenty-five years and demand outstripped supply.

This release was made available by Nubian Records on digital platforms. Here is an opportunity to stream or download either this song or the full album that is still in great demand from old and new fans alike.

What Them A Do

Black Roots