The Aggrolites

The Aggrolites are a prominent reggae ensemble from Los Angeles, California, widely recognized for their gritty, soul-infused sound often referred to as "dirty reggae." Formed in 2002, the group emerged from the merger of two local ska and reggae acts: the Vessels and the Rhythm Doctors. Initially, the ensemble came together to serve as the live backing band for the legendary Jamaican musician Derrick Morgan. Although a planned studio project with Morgan was never officially released, the chemistry developed during those sessions motivated the members to establish The Aggrolites as a permanent standalone entity.

The band quickly built a reputation for their raw, high-energy approach to traditional skinhead reggae and funk. In 2004, they released their debut album, Dirty Reggae, on the local label Axe Records. The recording process reflected the band's spontaneous energy; the entire album was tracked at Signet Studios in Los Angeles in a single day, with many tracks recorded in one take and several lyrics improvised on the spot.