Artist page · 04/07/2026
About
Seven vinyl records including original 1976 debut and prized live LPs with steady price tracking.
Formed in London in 1975, Aswad became a cornerstone of British reggae, offering a distinctive sound marked by the fusion of deep roots rhythms and soulful melodies. Their debut album "Aswad," released in 1976 on Island Records, features tracks like "I A Rebel Soul" and "Back To Africa" that reflect the black British experience through politically charged lyrics. The group continued to evolve through the 1980s and beyond, with live albums capturing their energetic performances worldwide. Vinyl enthusiasts can explore various original pressings and recent reissues, including deluxe editions and 180g versions.
Aswad's catalog spans several labels and formats, with both studio and live recordings that demonstrate their versatility and commitment to reggae's enduring message.
Discography
Studio albums, EPs and notable live records, from newest to oldest. Drag the timeline to browse.
SMC Records · 2024
Rhythm Riders · 2009
Universal Music TV · 2002
Eagle Records · 2000
Ark 21 Records · 1999
Gut Records · 1997
Bubblin' Records · 1995
Sony · 1995
Blow Up · 1995
Bubblin' Records · 1994
Mango · 1990
Mango · 1988
Simba · 1986
Jah Shaka Music · 1985
Island Records · 1984
Island Records · 1983
CBS · 1982
Island Records · 1982
CBS · 1981
Grove Music · 1979
Island Records · 1976Playlist
The tracks that sum up Aswad's career.
The essentials
Our pick, validated by the editorial team.
The band's debut album on Island Records embodies roots reggae with dub influences, including the political anthem "Back To Africa."
A pivotal live record recorded across Europe, featuring nine tracks like "Not Guilty" and "Roots Rocking," sought for its authentic atmosphere.
Recent live album capturing a vibrant London performance with 14 tracks including the hit "Don't Turn Around."
Go further
Artists who share part of Aswad's musical DNA.
Collectors
The hidden side of the catalogue: rare pressings, sought-after matrices, Discogs values.
For each reference edition, these cards summarise the state of the global Discogs market. Market position places the average price of a copy between the observed min and max prices. Average price is the price seen for a mint-condition copy. Copies available counts listings currently for sale. Collectors who want it is the number of Discogs users who added it to their wantlist without owning it — a good signal of upcoming demand.
Face B
Studio secrets, touring anecdotes and B-sides worth the whole album.
Aswad's sound was both authentic and militant, distinct from other Jamaican partners.— Observation on their musical style
The live album "Live In London" was released on SMC Records in 2024 on LP format with stereo sound, retaining a catalog number SMCRX001LP. It is currently tracked with a median price of €25 and three copies available for sale.
The debut album "Aswad" was originally released in 1976 on Island Records with cat number ILPS 9399, including roots reggae and dub styles across 8 tracks. Original pressings from Canada and US fetch prices around €14 to €29 on vinyl.
"Live And Direct" was issued in 1983 as an LP mini-album by Island Records for the European market. It contains 9 live tracks and remains widely collected with original editions priced up to €9.
The single "Don't Turn Around" reached number one on the UK reggae charts in March 1988, evidencing the band's success beyond roots reggae.
FAQ
The most common questions about pressings, reissues and limited editions.
Aswad was formed in London, United Kingdom, in 1975.
Aswad is primarily known for reggae, roots reggae, dub, reggae ragga, and occasionally pop influences.
The debut album "Aswad" was released in 1976 as a vinyl LP on Island Records.
Live albums like "Live And Direct" and "Live In London" are available on vinyl in LP and mini-album formats, including high-quality pressings such as 180g editions.
Yes, original UK pressings are available for albums like "Live In London" and "Live And Direct," tracked with specific catalogue numbers and real-time price estimates.
Vinyl records by Aswad are available via distributors and collectors in France, with releases like the 2019 "Live And Direct" from Disco Bertus France, detailed with price tracking.
Notable tracks include "Don't Turn Around," "Back To Africa," "Shine," and "I A Rebel Soul," important for their lyrical and musical resonance.
Their lyrics and themes often address the struggles and societal challenges faced by black British communities, especially evident in songs like "Three Babylon."
Transparency
This page is compiled by the vinyles.com editorial team from public sources and our marketplace.
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