Black Slate were, during the late 70's & early 80's, one of the most prominent names in British reggae, their hit "Amigo" swept across Britain and Europe in the summer of 1980, there were 3 well received albums, and live shows impressed with both atmosphere and musicianship. As well they might, because individually and together, the band have backed and collaborated with some of the biggest and most respected names in music of any genre - from Sly and Robbie, Peter Tosh, Dennis Brown, Ken Boothe, Eruption, Gwen Guthrie and Pink Floyd's Dave Gilmour. And now they're Back!, but not, as happens so often, for financial reasons, or to become part of a "Nostalgia package". They were asked to come back by the fans.
Drummer Desmond Mahoney noticed that a lot of people who enjoyed their solo work were asking: "When are the band coming back?" - and they realised Black Slate still had a lot to say to the world.
Each member of the band has been making and producing music over the years as well as mentoring young musicians and it seems to be a perfect recipe for keeping a classic sound fresh.
With a clutch of successful London gigs behind them including London's O2, Leeds Festival and the prestigious Ruby Lo's. Black Slate have a new album due for release April 2012 and a world tour to look forward to. (An EP with songs from the album will be available in November).
New single from the album out now, the highly conscious 'Postcode Gangster'.
'Amigo 2011' and 'Spending Cuts' are two of tracks due for release in September as well as the hugely anticipated bonus track 'Mozart in Trenchtown' .