CULTURE’S LOST MASTERPIECE ‘AFRICA STAND ALONE’ GOES DIGITAL
Forty-seven years after its quiet emergence, Africa Stand Alone finally finds its digital footing. Released by VP Records to mark Africa Day, this rugged roots classic now hits streaming platforms for the first time—raw, uncut, and gloriously unpolished.
Originally laid down at Kingston’s legendary Harry J Studios in 1978, Africa Stand Alone captures Culture at a moment of creative flux.
With the original Two Sevens Clash lineup—Joseph Hill, Albert Walker, and Kenneth Dayes—still intact, and backed by High Lites and Sons Of Jah, the album brims with spirit and fire.
Culture had just walked away from producer Joe Gibbs. While exploring new paths, they linked with Jamie Hatcher and Seymour Cummings of Dragon Productions. That spontaneous studio session led to an album both loved and contested, long regarded as an essential bootleg among collectors.
WITH THE ORIGINAL TWO SEVENS CLASH LINEUP STILL INTACT, THE ALBUM BRIMS WITH SPIRIT AND FIRE
Now, in its original, stripped-down form—with haunting harmonies, taut Nyabingi drumming, and that minimalist, hand-drawn cover—it stands tall once again.
Whether you’re a longtime devotee or a new listener, this is Culture in its purest essence. Stream it, absorb it, and feel the pulse of a band speaking truth to power.
ABOUT CULTURE
Culture changed reggae forever with Two Sevens Clash, a 1977 classic praised by John Peel and cherished worldwide. Their conscious lyrics, tight harmonies, and calls for unity and justice helped define the golden era of roots reggae.
As the genre evolved, their influence continued to grow, inspiring artists across generations. After Joseph Hill’s passing in 2006, his son Kenyatta stepped up. Alongside Telford Nelson, he continues to carry the torch, keeping Culture’s message alive and urgent.
