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LP
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RROO 399LP
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$20.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 6/6/2025
Aitken relocated to London, England, in 1960 and became a pivotal figure in the ska movement, recording extensively in both the UK and Jamaica throughout the decade. His groundbreaking contributions solidified his status as one of the genre's foremost pioneers, earning him the revered titles "The Godfather of Ska" and "Boss Skinhead." His infectious sound and dynamic performances attracted a devoted following, not only within the West Indian community but also among mods, skinheads, and ska enthusiasts across the cultural spectrum.
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LP
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SOULG 010LP
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Reissue, originally released in 1973. Reissued for the very first time on a limited vinyl edition, here's the fifth work of the godfather of ska, Laurel Aitken. Originally released on Count Shelly Records, Moria Sofia was completely written, arranged, produced, and sung by Aitken himself. The album is a skillful blend of soul and calypso tunes with a splash of rocksteady. A mandatory gem to be rediscovered by all Jamaican music fans. Fully licensed; edition of 500.
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LP
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RR 371LP
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Radiation Roots present a reissue of Laurel Aitken's The Fantastic Laurel Aitken, originally released in 1972. Remastered and expanded edition of this hyper-rare early '70s release from the "Godfather Of Ska". By 1970, Laurel Aitken was well and truly established as the "Father of British Reggae", having dominated the country's Jamaican music scene since his arrival at the start of the '60s. But having enjoyed success with every UK-based West Indian record company of note over the previous eleven years, he was no longer content with simply domestic triumphs and set his sights on conquering foreign territories. So, he took the unusual step of licensing his next album to companies in Europe and North America, while leaving his legions of British fans scrambling for the few copies available on import. Originally out on the Belgian label Hebra 42 years ago and never reissued ever since, this is one of the unmissable '70s ska classics finally back on vinyl. Includes four bonus tracks.
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LP
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RUM 2011020LP
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"Unmissable singles collection documenting the early days of the man the world will always remember as the 'Godfather of Ska'. Born in Cuba in 1927 but raised in Jamaica, Laurel Aitken played an important role in the growth of the 'Mento' music (indigenous Jamaican folk-based music, blending elements of European melody and African rhythm) phenomenon, while the Jamaican music industry was taking its first, hesitant steps back in 1958. Including such classics as the 'Day-O'-influenced 'Mass Charlie' or the pivotal 'Calypso Rock 'n' Roll', this is a must-have for anyone willing to know more on the origins of rocksteady and ska."
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