Search - Third World :: Ultimate Collection

A Good Primer! Emphasizes "singles"

Tom Plum | Roswell, NM United States | 03/07/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is a good primer on Third World, a good price for a sampling of all of or nearly all of the distinct periods of the band, 20 songs is not enough for a representative sample of the band but it's a start. To me, the 2 early '80s albums, "You've got the power" and "Rock the World" read like greatest hits albums, however they are only represented on this compilation with single released versions of "Try Jah Love" written by Stevie Wonder (& M.A. McCully for the record) and "Who gave you (Jah Rastafari)." Yet, the solid positive message for which Third World has become known for permeates each song on this compilation. One would not be honest if one did not acknowledge that they have had downswings and upturns in their career but this is very largely due to their seeking to produce music diverse in nature and trying to keep up with musical trends. That said, it does seem that they started losing some of their direction with the 1985 "Sense of Purpose" album even though 2 songs from this collection come from there and I think "Sense of Purpose" itself is a marvelous song (right! the message).



I have mixed feelings on the band, they have been appraised at times for being a more commericalised reggae; but "inna time like this" or any other, their music can be very inspiring. I don't know the very early works as well such as "Journey to Addis Abba" or the other early albums, "96 Degrees in the Shade" and their premier album with Island Records titled "Third World" that have those primitive types of painting on them. However, I read the reviews here are very positive regarding them and the two albums I know well are some of the best in my humble collection. "Reggae Radio Station" from 1987's "Hold on to Love" should be on this collection as well. It is somewhat in the same vein as "Reggae Ambassador"; but to me, sounds more sincere.



There may be some issues dealing with labels here, it seems even the longer compilation "Reggae Ambassadors" lacks tracks from some total releases; such as "Ride on Jah people" from "YGTP" but may emphasize the earlier works more, so it is on my "get" list. We don't always need a Stones type of anthology retreading the same songs over and over."

Yes, Mon, Yes!

D. Goodson | Willow Park, TX USA | 03/11/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This whole CD is absolutely wicked! I urge everyone, familiar with Third World or not, to give this a listen. Believe me it has something to offer you whether you're a reggae fan or not. If you're not already a fan, this may very well convert you. Please do yourself a favor and give it a listen! There isn't enough room here to discuss the wonderful experience that listening to the stellar tunes included in this CD will allow you. Third World are truly Reggae Ambassadors and this CD is truly the Ultimate Collection!"

Generous, but goes south quickly

hopeordoom | 04/09/2004

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I've recently taken a big dive into the reggae waters... buying various discs trying to discover the incredible talent found down in Jamaica. These Hip-O "Ultimate Collection" discs are packed with songs and seem a good way to sample some respected bands. This is my first Third World CD and I have to say that if I investigate further it will be with their early albums. This collection takes a bigtime dive into cheesy, 80's sounding reggae about halfway through. Compare this to the Black Uhuru or Dillinger Hip-O comps and it's a bit disappointing. I LOVE roots reggae and older authentic sounds like Toots and the Maytals. This CD just seems to take a path away from strong reggae sounds that I enjoy. Not bad, but not perfect."