Released in 1977, EXODUS was recorded in London after Marley had survived an assassination attempt in Jamaica. The title track was written in 1976 against the backdrop of a general election in Jamaica and was a direct response to the campaign of the then Prime Minister (Michael Manley).
This ninth studio album from Marley, arguably gave him his biggest commercial breakthrough, featuring classic tracks such as ‘Natural Mystic’, ‘Jamming’ and ‘Three Little Birds’, ‘EXODUS’ propelled Marley on his journey to become a global superstar and cultural icon.
Brinsley Forde
Brinsley Forde best known as the founding member of the British super Reggae group Aswad.
Aswad was formed in West London in 1974 with Brinsley fronting the original five piece on both vocals and rhythm guitar, Angus Gaye (Drums/Vocals), George Oban (Bass), Courtney Hemmings (Keyboards), Donald Griffiths (Lead Guitar). The group quickly became recognised among reggae fans for their rich melodies and compelling harmonies, woven over hard rhythm tracks and inspired horn riffs. Aswad first gained national attention in 1976 when their debut single release Back To Africa hit #1 in the UK Reggae Charts.
Aswad earned international acclaim with their reggae version of Don’t Turn Around, a song previously covered by both Luther Ingram and Tina Turner. Don’t Turn Around, released on Island in 1988, went to #1 on the UK National charts and was the most-played record on French radio. In 1994 the band were nominated for a second Grammy for Best Reggae Album of the Year for Rise & Shine which spent four weeks at the #1 slot on the CMJ New World chart and got a Top 10 slot on the Billboard reggae chart. The album was also a major hit in the UK and Japan, where it produced a #1 single Shine, boosting worldwide sales to more than 600,000. Later, Love Fire, Aswad’s popular anthem released in 1981, and Warrior Charge have become part of the reggae canon and both are still covered today by many Jamaican record producers.
Ciyo Brown
An in-demand musicians’ musician, Ciyo’s ongoing collaborative works cover a range of genres. His musical talent has featured alongside artists such as Roachford, Linda Lewis, Raghav, Shara Nelson, through progressive Jazz with Soweto Kinch, to the ‘new psychedelia’ Brit-pop/folk influenced music of Bishi.
Ciyo’s jazzy guitar contributions are also present in the genres of reggae and lover’s rock and can be found in his live and recorded work with many artists including JC Lodge, Sugar Minott, Bob Andy, Earl ‘Chinna Smith’, Barry Biggs, Dennis Bovell, Pam Hall, Jimmy Lindsay, Earl 16, Lukie D, Paulette Tajah, Susan Cadogan, Lorna Bennett, Kofi, Winston Reedy, Janet Kay and Carroll Thompson.
Ciyo has toured with Courtney Pine, Byron Wallen, Ronnie Laws, Billy Paul, Jean Toussaint, Maxi Priest, Beres Hammond, Horace Andy, Cleveland Watkiss, Steel Pulse and a host of others. He counts quality time spent with George Benson as amongst his most inspiring experiences to date.