Few Jamaican groups can claim to be as enduringly influential as progressive roots outfit Third World. Formed from Kingston’s forward thinking music scene that also produced Inner Circle, Third World’s technical prowess and outernational sound led to a major label deal with Island Records. Their self-titled debut album featured an extended cover version of the Abyssinians’ Satta Massagana, their second album 96 Degrees In The Shade is considered a reggae classic, and their third LP Journey To Addis produced a massive international hit cover of the O’Jays’ Now That We’ve Found Love – later sampled by rapper Heavy D. Although their sound was initially thought of as unusual in the roots reggae landscape of the 70s, their legacy can be heard in the music of Jamaica’s 21st century reggae bands – trained by former Third World keyboardist Ibo Cooper at Edna Manley College. The group, led by guitarist/cellist Cat Coore, celebrate 45 years in the business in 2019.