The Gladiators - Presenting The Gladiators (Studio One - SOR-017) (CD-Deluxe Edition) (2018)

Presenting..originally released on Studio One in 1978- has been reissued in a Deluxe Edition by Studio One. What a treat! This band, this label, and this release are considered classics in the reggae world. Led by vocalist, Albert Griffiths, The Gladiators, a self-contained band, also backed up other musicians at Studio One. Aside from including the full, original album, this Deluxe Edition, also includes some dubs, some unreleased material, and even some alternate takes.

The Gladiators had some success in the UK with releases on Virgin and Front Line in the mid-70s, but this Studio One release is where I got my first taste of this roots reggae band. This release also comes with a handy and pretty booklet which provides some background of the band some of the members that have passed through the ranks. The music? Well, listening to this album on CD for the first time allows me to hear some background harmony parts that I had not heard on the vinyl release. On some the tracks the bass can really be heard and distorts a little but if you are a fan of reggae music and Studio One, that will not be a problem. By the way, the bass parts are credited to Clinton Fearon and Bagga Walker. Solid!! If you are a fan of reggae music, you should have this. This CD is worth getting even if you prefer vinyl. Enjoy - Listen to Roots Natty