Third World

Rip It Up, Issue 98, 1 September 1985, Page 10

Third World

Third World have always trodden an uneasy path, blending reggae rhythms with other Caribbean sounds, as well as Latin and North American soul. Reggae purists shun much of their work as disco crossover, and with some justification. Their best music was produced in their days with Island, and their switch to CBS has seen them move more into the American mainstream.

The band was formed in 1973 by keyboard player Ibo Cooper and guitarist Cat Coore. Their debut album, Third World, was a sombre affair, featuring the low-key vocals of Milton Hamilton. He was subsequently replaced by Rugs Clark, a much stronger singer with a pronounced soul influence. Their follow-up album, 96 Degrees in the Shade, is generally regarded as their best. Their distinctive harmonies recalled such groups as the Isley Brothers, yet they retained the roots feel which they were later to lose for good. Third World’s success peaked with 1978's Journey To Addis, featuring their trademark song, 'Now That We’ve Found Love’. Their output since has been erratic and disappointing, but this compilation catches most of their good moments. 'Prisoner In the Street' and ‘African Woman’ are both vocal showcases for Rugs, and ‘Cool Meditation’ is as sweet as its name implies. A fair representation of a band which has since sought other directions.