Felix Bartlett
Felix Bartlett is a photographer, journalist, and print editor at CLUNK Magazine, where he dives into the heart of independent music and culture. He’s also the founder and director of AMPED, CLUNK’s sister mag, dedicated to all things heavy.
WAR fans, rejoice! The SoCal crew’s recently announced release, ‘The Collection‘ captures the band’s most dynamic era
Arriving this Black Friday, November 29th, ‘The Vinyl: 1977-1994‘ and ‘The CD Collection: 1977-1994‘ showcase five definitive albums that cement WAR’s legacy firmly in the funk canon.
Featuring newly remastered audio by award-winning engineer Bernie Grundman, the collection includes ‘Platinum Funk‘ (1977), ‘Galaxy‘ (1977), ‘The Music Band‘ (1979), ‘Outlaw‘ (1982), and ‘Peace Sign‘ (1994). These classics arrive just in time for WAR’s 55th Anniversary celebrations next year, which will include receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
‘The Vinyl: 1977-1994‘ marks the first reissue of these albums on vinyl since their original pressings, with each LP pressed in vibrant, rainbow-themed colors—silver for ‘Platinum Funk‘, yellow for ‘Galaxy‘, red for ‘The Music Band‘, purple for ‘Outlaw‘, and orange for ‘Peace Sign‘. The set is housed in a stunning slipcase illustrated by Grammy-winning artist Dave Van Patten.
This release follows WAR’s acclaimed ‘The Vinyl: 1971-1975‘ and the 50th Anniversary Collector’s Edition of ‘The World Is a Ghetto‘.
The records included in ‘The Vinyl: 1977-1994‘ and ‘The CD Collection: 1977-1994‘ continue to showcase WAR’s mastery of universal street music, delivered through their innovative arrangements, seamless blend of styles, and unmatched musicianship. Packed with grooves, melodies, and meaningful messages, these albums highlight the sheer depth and breadth of WAR’s artistry.
Produced by Jerry Goldstein in collaboration with Lonnie Jordan, Howard Scott, and Jeremy Levine for Avenue Records/Far Out Productions, both collections share the same tracklist. Each album is distinct yet unmistakably WAR, with their signature sound and soulful energy running throughout.
Spanning 18 years of music, the set kicks off with ‘Platinum Funk‘ (1977), a rare release originally issued as a hybrid album (Platinum Jazz) that became Blue Note Records’ first Platinum album. Featuring the No. 1 R&B hit ‘L.A. Sunshine‘ and the title track from ‘The River Niger‘ film (starring James Earl Jones and Cicely Tyson), this collection offers a unique UK-only reissue of ‘Platinum Funk‘ previously unavailable in the U.S. outside of imports. This version highlights six instrumental, jazz-infused tracks that showcased WAR’s unparalleled versatility.
With over 50 million records sold worldwide and more than 20 platinum, multi-platinum, and gold certifications to their name, WAR’s legacy is undeniable. The set also includes fan favorites like ‘Galaxy‘ and ‘The Music Band‘, which featured the hit ‘Good, Good Feelin’‘, brought to life through a music video choreographed by the legendary Lester Wilson.
The journey continues with 1982’s ‘Outlaw‘, delivering classics like ‘Cinco De Mayo‘ and ‘You Got the Power‘. The collection closes with 1994’s ‘Peace Sign‘, where WAR reunited surviving members to create a heartfelt tribute to love, harmony, and brotherhood. Featuring José Feliciano on ‘East L.A.‘ and dedications to late bandmates Papa Dee Allen and Charles Miller, this album encapsulates WAR’s enduring mission.
As part of their ‘The World Is a Ghetto‘ 50th Anniversary Tour, WAR is currently performing across California. For full tour dates, visit war.com/tour.
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