20 track collection from the Kingston, Jamaica legends.
Formed by singer and guitarist Albert Griffiths in the mid-‘60s, Gladiators soon became a force in the genres of Ska and reggae. As Reggae moved toward Ragga (synthesized drums, sampling, etc.) Gladiators’ recordings for the Nighthawk Records label in the ‘80s stayed true to their roots reggae sound.
One Love: The Best Of Their Nighthawk Recordings collects 20 tracks from their tenure at the label, including tracks from the albums Symbol Of Reality (1982) and Serious Thing (1984), as well as the 1992 collection of previously unissued tracks Full Time, the 1983 U.S. Tour EP, and Dread Prophecy (recorded with Ethiopian) from 1986. It traces the direction of Jamaican music, coupling Griffith’s originals with covers of Bob Marley and more. It is the perfect introduction to the band’s pivotal period, and also stands as document of how as the genre had evolved, the need for true roots reggae never wavered.
Packaging contains photos and new liner notes from Dana Smart outlining Gladiators’ story. One Love: The Best Of Their Nighthawk Recordings presents an integral piece into the roots and soul of reggae music.
Symbol Of Reality Fling It Gimme Mister Goose One Love Reggae Jamboree Cheater Full Time My Thoughts Fussing And Fighting Serious Thing Bless Our Soul Streets Of Gold Boy In Long Pants Dread Prophocy Small Axe Mid-Range Stand Alone Bongo Red You Little Rat (aka Prince Tony’s Head) After You
