Transitions (Gate) [LP]

Transitions, the third album from Boston ska stalwarts Westbound Train, is finally receiving it's first ever vinyl pressing, 17 years after it's initial release on Tim Armstrong's Hellcat Records. The 16-song set showcases the band in peak form, dexterously weaving flavors of early Jamaican ska, reggae, and rocksteady with the '60s American influences of jazz, soul, and funk to create their own authentic sound. As AllMusic states in their 4-star review, "Transitions isn't just an homage to the past, but a reinvention of all it's power and glory." Frontman Obi Fernandez provides powerful, emotive vocal performances throughout the record, and Alex Desert of Hepcat lends his signature voice for two cuts. The double LP comes housed in a gatefold jacket, featuring newly penned liner notes from producer and engineer Brian Wallace.