Experience '80s post-punk with Khartomb's reissue of Swahili Lullaby/Teekon Warriors

Did you know a hidden gem emerged during the 1980s post-punk explosion? The unique blend of post-punk and reggae, encapsulated in the 1983 release of Swahili Lullaby/Teekon Warriors, left an indelible mark on those who knew it. Now, 40 years later, Jason Boardman's Before I Die label brings this masterpiece back to life, along with some tantalizing new additions.

Swahili Lullaby/Teekon Warriors originally hit the shelves on June 23, 1983, as a 7" vinyl. Khartomb, the band behind the gem in question, drew inspiration from contemporaries like The Slits and The Raincoats, crafting a sound that was nothing shy of pulsatingly complex. Despite initial interest sparked by their Peel Session and support from influential music outlets like Melody Maker and ZigZag, the London act couldn't capitalize on the momentum, leaving this their sole vinyl release—until now.

The reissue, released on July 20, 2024 on Before I Die, does more than just revive old tracks. It breathes new life into them with the addition of Daisy High, a previously unreleased slow jam favored by Pat Nevin. The original tracks remain as potent as ever with "Swahili Lullaby" being gifted complementary remixes by Synkro and Talking Drums.

Khartomb's Swahili Lullaby/Teekon Warriors reissue is beyond nostalgia. It's a rediscovery of a band whose sound was ahead of its time. These tracks will surely throb their way to a new audience, and Khartomb's legacy will be taken note of. Great music, no matter how obscure, will always find its way back into the light.

Curious about what transpired that led to the rediscovery of this '80s gem? There's a video where they share just that. Watch it below. Stream, download, or get the record on vinyl via Bandcamp.

Sam Corrazza

Sam is a mediocre artist, musician, and the founder and editor in chief of UNXIGNED. He is a Juris Doctor who leads an excitingly boring life in the confines of his room juggling studies with passion and dreams. He is terrible at finding balance but gets by anyhow. He wants you to follow his artist pages and channels for when he decides to up his game. Pretty open for collabs and will mix your would-be hit song for cheap.