Artist: Aswad Album: Hulet

Year: 1979
Duration: 0:0-1

Grooving to Aswad's Hulet: A Review

Aswad has been a significant influence in the world of reggae music since the 1970s. With a career spanning over four decades, they have released over 20 albums. Hulet, released in 1988, is one of their most celebrated albums, and it's no surprise why. In this , we'll take a deep dive into Hulet, exploring the history of Aswad, the album's music genre, the best songs, the most innovative parts, and a critic to the album. Get your headphones out, and let's groove to Aswad's Hulet.
Let's start with a brief history of the band. Aswad was formed in 1975 in West London, consisting of Brinsley Forde, George Oban, and Tony Robinson. The band's name means black in Arabic and is a nod to their African roots. Aswad's music style is a blend of reggae, dub, and R&B. Hulet was released in 1988, during the golden age of reggae music. The album's music genre is a mix of reggae, dancehall, and lovers rock. You can hear the strong Jamaican influence in the music, and it's evident that Aswad is paying tribute to their reggae roots.
The album starts with the hit single Don't Turn Around, and it's clear that Aswad's steady bass and drums are at the core of the song. The vocal harmonies are soulful and powerful, and the chorus is infectious. Another standout track is Give A Little Love, a song that starts with eerie dub sounds that build up to the bright and joyful chorus. The song is a beautiful testament to the power of love and unity. Didn't Know At The Time is a slower track that showcases the band's versatility. The lyrics are introspective and touching, and the guitar solo is spine-tingling. A personal favorite is If I Was, a danceable track with heavy bass beats that's guaranteed to get you moving.
The most innovative part of the album is undoubtedly the use of electronic drums. For the first time, Aswad was incorporating electronic beats into their music, giving it a modern edge. In songs like In Our Roots, the use of electronic drums gives the track a futuristic vibe, while still maintaining the roots reggae sound. The experimental use of electronic percussion paved the way for Aswad's later music, and Hulet is a crucial album in the band's evolution.
Now, it's time for the critic section. Hulet is a solid album from start to finish, but it does have a few flaws. Some of the tracks sound a bit too similar, and a few could have benefited from a more stripped-down production. It's also a shame that Aswad didn't include any political or social commentary on the album. However, these minor criticisms don't detract from the fact that Hulet is a great album that's stood the test of time.
Aswad's Hulet is a fantastic album that showcases the band's immense talent. The blend of reggae, dancehall, electronic, and lovers rock creates a unique sound that's instantly recognizable as Aswad's. The use of electronic percussion was groundbreaking at the time and adds an innovative edge to the music. For fans of reggae music, Hulet is a must-listen. If you're new to Aswad's music, this album is an excellent introduction to the band. All in all, Grooving to Aswad's Hulet is a joyous experience that you shouldn't miss.