A sublime set of roots, vocal and dubbed out instrumental magic, Close Encounters Of The Third World is a real lost gem in the treasure-filled Creation Rebel back catalogue. A true cross-atlantic collaboration – initial rhythm tracks were laid down in London in 1978, with horns and vocals overdubbed at Channel One in Jamaica, before bandleader Crucial Tony returned to London with the tapes for the album to be mixed by a visiting Prince Jammy.

Originally released on pre-On-U Sound label Hitrun, and the second album released by the group chronologically. Unavailable for 45 years, it has been carefully pieced back together, for this new edition featuring extended 12” discomix versions of ‘Beware’ and ‘Natty Conscience Free’, re-cut by Frank Merritt at The Carvery.

High Above Harlesden 1978–2023
On-U Sound presents High Above Harlesden 1978–2023, shining a spotlight on the work of the original On-U house band Creation Rebel. The reissue campaign sees 5 classic albums being repressed on vinyl, as well as a 6CD anthology box set. See below for more details on each.