(12) Third World - The Story´s Been Told (1979)

1979's The Story´s Been Told", like its immediate predecessor "Journey To Addis", is a transitional album bridging the traditional roots reggae of early albums like 1976's self-titled release and the more pop-oriented and keyboard-heavy work of Third World's later years. The balance is still tilted towards the rootsy and the Rasta, however, making "The Been Told" a fine example of the band's classic era.

These seven lengthy songs are funky reggae workouts evenly divided between Rastafarian devotionals like "Irie Ites," and more playful party tunes like "Having a Party" and "Come Together." The gently flowing title track, one of Third World's finest, closes the album on an appropriately high note.

Third World, to this day, portrays every sense of their moniker "Reggae Ambassadors," with their musicianship and camaraderie as they continue to spread the message of love around the world.

Track listing

01.  Talk to Me (William Clarke)  - 8:20    

02.  Irie Ites  (Steven "Cat" Coore)  - 4:33    

03.  Always Around  (Third World)  - 4:37    

04.  Tonight for Me  (Third World)  - 4:52    

05.  Come Together  (Third World)  - 3:02    

06.  Having a Party  (Third World)  - 5:07    

07.  The Story's Been Told  (Third World)  - 7:08    

Released:  1979

Recorded at:  Crystal Studios, Los Angeles, California

Label:  Island

Genre:  Reggae, Pop

Length:  37:39

Producer:  Third World

Personnel:

W. "Rugs" Clarke - vocals, guitar

Michael "Ibo" Cooper - vocals

Richard "Bass" Daley - guitar

Steven "Cat" Coore - guitar

Chris Wood - saxophone

Willie Stewart - drums

Irvin Jarrett - percussion