As announced here a couple of weeks ago, the 'Story Of Trojan Records' box set is due for release at the end of August.

Explaining the thinking behind the release, Trojan Product Manager, Chris Howarth said, 'The concept was to present something that would appeal to both the die-hard fans and those simply wanting to discover more about the iconic label. We were also keen not to duplicate the themes or many of the recordings that featured on the 'Muzik City' set released by Sanctuary Records eights years ago, so while disc one of the box concentrates on the UK chart hits, the remainder of the material on sees issue on Trojan either for the first time, or the first time in a long time.'

Chris went on to clarify the criteria behind the selection process for the tracks:

'Although we wanted to include rare and unissued material, we were keen to maintain a high standard of music, so as to illustrate the strength in depth of Trojan's catalogue, particularly through the golden age of early Reggae. In addition, all the major artists needed to feature as well as the work of producers whose material in the early seventies helped estanblish the label as the world's leading Jamaican music company. Of course certain producer agreements have since expired, while others are currently being negotiated, so the selection was limited to some extent, but I feel we've been able to do justice to Trojan's rich musical history.'

More news on the collection, which is due for issue at the end of August, will follow over the ensuing weeks, so keep watching this space.