Old Time Something Come Back Again, Vol. 2 The Expanders
With the release of OLD TIME SOMETHING COME BACK AGAIN, VOL. 2, The Expanders continue their meticulous excavation of reggae's golden era, proving that "vintage" is less a fashion statement and more a disciplined craft. While their previous full-length, HUSTLING CULTURE, showcased their prowess in original songwriting, this second volume of covers finds the Los Angeles-based group deepening their role as curators of the genre's foundational spirit. By focusing on the obscure B-sides and deep cuts of the late '70s and early '80s—rather than leaning on the safe bet of "greatest hits"—the band honors the technical precision and vocal harmony traditions that first defined the Easy Star ethos. The result is a collection that feels less like a tribute and more like a natural continuation of a musical conversation started in Kingston decades ago.
The tracklist serves as a masterclass in roots arrangement, featuring faithful yet vibrant interpretations of legends like Burning Spear ("Walla Walla") and The Gladiators ("Freedom Train"). The Expanders' signature three-part harmonies are on full display here, capturing the soulful, often haunting resonance of the original sessions. It's a sound that shares a clear lineage with other stalwarts on the roster; there is a direct sonic thread connecting the analog warmth of this record to the rocksteady leanings of The Frightnrs or the heavy, rhythmic foundations found in Triston Palma's later work. The rhythm section expertly captures that elusive mid-tempo "rockers" pocket, providing a weighted foundation that allows the vocal melodies to float with a deceptive, airy ease.
This volume also highlights the label's ongoing commitment to the "version" culture of reggae. By revisiting works from The Ethiopians, The Itals, and Yabby You, The Expanders act as a living link to the inspirations that fueled the Easy Star All-Stars' own reinterpretations of classic albums. Rather than a mere nostalgia trip, OLD TIME SOMETHING COME BACK AGAIN, VOL. 2 feels like an essential piece of a larger puzzle, sitting comfortably alongside the label's contemporary singles like “Two For Toots” or “Sweet and Slow”." Ultimately, the album cements its place as a vital document of the label's dedication to both preserving and progressing the genre's purest forms without the need for modern artifice.
