Released: 17/11/23
Early is a 2005 U.S.-only vinyl release compiling Scritti Politti’s raw, politically charged recordings from the late ’70s and early ’80s. Featuring tracks like “Skank Bloc Bologna” and “The 'Sweetest Girl',” it captures the band’s post-punk beginnings in the Marxist squats of Camden and their pivotal role in shaping the UK’s indie scene alongside peers like Gang of Four and The Mekons. These foundational works offer a striking contrast to their later polished pop, highlighting the radical spirit that first drew attention from John Peel and Rough Trade.