Formed by immigrants from the Caribbean in 1975, English reggae group Aswad ("Black" in arabic) are intriguing in that they have performed (according to critics) better music as they added more soul and R&B influences to it.

Among Aswad's catalogue of hits is the classic Don't Turn Around, which has been covered by artists such as Ace of Base and a reggae flavored rendition of Best of My Love, first popularised by The Eagles.

The band also hold the distinction of having played with each one of the ex-Wailers.

Band members

• Martin Augustine AKA "Tatta" - Lead guitar
• Brinsley Forde AKA "Dan" - Vocals, Rhythm guitar
• Angus Gaye AKA "Drummie Zeb" - Vocals, Drums
• Jimmy Haynes AKA "Senyah" - Lead guitar, Acoustic guitar
• Clifton Morrison AKA "Bigga" - Vocals, Keyboards, Melodica
• Tony Robinson AKA "Tony Gad" - Vocals, Bass guitar

Discography

• 1976 : Aswad - Mango Records
• 1978 : Hulet - Mango Records
• 1981 : New Chapter - Columbia Records
• 1981 : Showcase - Mango Records
• 1982 : A New Chapter of Dub - Mango Records
• 1982 : Not Satisfied - Columbia Records
• 1983 : Live and Direct - Mango Records
• 1984 : Rebel Souls - Mango Records
• 1986 : To the Top - Simba
• 1988 : Jah Shaka Meets Aswad in Addis Ababa Studio - Jah Shaka
• 1988 : Distant Thunder - Mango Records
• 1988 : Renaissance - 20 Crucial Tracks - Stylus
• 1990 : Next to You - Alex
• 1990 : Too Wicked - Mango Records
• 1993 : Firesticks - Alex
• 1994 : Rise and Shine - Rhino Entertainment
• 1995 : Rise and Shine Again! - Mesa
• 1995 : Dub: The Next Frontier - Mesa
• 1997 : Big Up - Atlantic Records
• 1999 : Roots Revival - Ark 21

Web Links

• [ http://www.blackworld.com/proffs/artistes/aswad.htm] biography and discography

Related articles:List of reggae musicians