When The Expanders first entered the studio in the mid-2000s, they weren’t trying to reinvent reggae; they were trying to channel the concrete-hard roots and sweet, three-part vocal harmonies of 1970s Jamaica. Recorded entirely to tape using vintage gear, their self-titled 2011 debut became an instant classic for purists, laying down the blueprint for the signature, heavy-stepping California roots sound they are known for today.
Now, Easy Star Records is bringing the entire output of those foundational sessions together in one definitive collection.
This reissue features all 12 original tracks, spanning from the hard-hitting rhythms of "Evilous Number" and "Moving Along" to the smooth, conscious storytelling of "Down In The Valley." For the first time digitally, the release appends all six legendary dub versions from the rare MERCILESS DUB sessions, letting listeners hear the riddims completely stripped back, drenched in spring reverb and tape delay. Rounding out the collection is a previously unheard bonus track, "The Ground," rescued straight from the original mid-2000s session archives.
Featuring iconic guest appearances from Alex Desert and Deston Berry of Hepcat on "Merciless Deeds," alongside the late, great Jah Faith on "Turtle Racing," this expanded edition is the ultimate archive of a modern roots landmark.
