Marcus Garvey

I've been listening to lots of 1970s reggae lately, so happy to give this another spin. Another record that is clearly important and influential, but which is not one of my favourites. HOWEVER, just as I was thinking how it always sounds a little too slick, I read that the Island release was remixed by the label without the artist's blessing/input. Can't believe I didn't know that. Now listening to the original Jamaican mix for the first time, and it has so much more of the darker, atmospheric sound I look for in roots reggae. Also just generally finding that the record is clicking with me more than it did in the past. None of the tracks are filler, and the instrumentation is great. My only mild criticism is that I'm not a huge fan of Burning Spear's voice (or let's say "the lead singer", since he hadn't yet taken the Spear name for himself). It's good and it fits the whole sound, but it doesn't compare to some 1970s reggae vocals. Overall, loved this a lot more on revisiting (and hearing the original mix).

So good I played it twice in quick succession. A beautiful album. I know *of* Burning Spear but this was a lovely deep dive into an album’s worth of his work. Need to listen to lots more I think. Particularly enjoyed Tradition on first spin. The harmonies throughout are fantastic. And that voice…excellent. This is how music with a message should be done.

Brilliant album - uplifting and full of righteous anger. Burning Spear is one of the key artists in roots reggae and this is my favourite of his albums. The dub is rather special too.

I'm generally a fan of reggae from this era. Reggae is the most amazing genre to me: a musical form originating from such a small geographic area, which was a melting pot of influences, that then evolved into something so distinct and unique and went on to then influence others around the world in turn. I'd be curious to hear the original Jamaican mix. I went on to listen to the dub (instrumental remix) version of the album "Garvey's Ghost" as a follow up bonus listen and I almost like it better.

5/5 Amazing grooves with brilliant vocals and lyrics. Just an almost flawless album, which just happens to be fantastically enjoyable. Marcus Garvey 5/5 (FAV) Slavery Days 5/5 The Invasion 5/5 Live Good 5/5 Give Me 5/5 Old Marcus Garvey 5/5 Tradition 5/5 (LEAST FAV) Jordan River 5/5 Red, Gold And Green 5/5 Resting Place 5/5

Listening to a lot of reggae these days, not sure why. It seems to have a purity of purpose and authenticity that just resonates with me. Music I need these days, I guess. Burning Spear really does the job, bringing on good feelings and a sense of clarity. Roots and culture! One Love!

This is different gravy! Top tier roots reggae - cool arrangements and a conceptual consistency that lends the album a rare potency. Burning Spear has a helluva voice. Love it.

I love this album - one of my favourites. If you don't like reggae, I don't think it is going to convert you - but I love the raw elements - his plaintive voice, the 'country' horns, poewrful lyrics in patois etc etc

Normally not a reggae guy, but I really enjoyed this record. The vibe was great, I enjoyed the political angles of it, and the more laid-back angles too. Loved the inclusion of the flute, and loved the unique vocals (see "Tradition") Guess I should check some more real roots reggae. Favorite tracks: "Marcus Garvey", "Slavery Days", "Live Good"

Pure distilled passion and energy. Colourful arrangements, meandering and beautiful. (Although I would love to hear the original Jamaican pressing)

The generator seems to think I hate reggae, because I gave the two Police records on this list one star. I’m just here today to state unequivocally: I don’t hate reggae. I just can’t stand The Police…and honestly, they aren’t even a reggae band. Thank you for your time.

Has pointed political commentary ever gone down as smoothly as Burning Spear manages on their major label debut? That’s the enduring magic trick of great reggae: music and message are one, and that oneness is a beautiful thing. If songs like “Marcus Garvey” or “Slavery Days” were attempted in some other musical format, they’d be insufferable. Yet in the hands of Burning Spear, repeated spins reward even the casual listener. As expected, the groove is hypnotic, the mood serious but buoyant, the vocals earnest but easy, the lyrics a heady blend of protest, liberation, and Rastafari devotion. In the middle of the decade where reggae music broke wide open, becoming a global phenomenon, Burning Spear made their mark with a voice of urgency and eternity, sounding both of its time and fit for any era. Their message still sounds like it very much matters and their music still puts heads to nodding and bodies moving. That’s a rare feat, and that’s why this record has endured.

Allow 'Marcus Garvey' to inform you of another side of the Rastafari movement, well beyond the stereotypical spliff-smoking dreadlock dudes often portrayed on film, and more often than not humorously. You won’t find any humor from lead vocalist Burning Spear, though, nor the Winston Rodney and Phillip Fullwood’s lyrics he’s singing. Neither is there any reference to the spiritual value of marijuana. This is all about political activism, and inspired by one of Jamaica’s greatest, prophet Marcus Garvey. But ‘no one remember old Marcus Garvey,’ Burning Spear laments, while imploring his fellow Jamaicans (throughout the entire album) to ‘humble yourself and become one day somehow you will remember him.’ For keeping the memory alive honors those who paved the way for us, and is a daily exercise in a faith in a righteous God who will one day enact divine retribution on the wicked, making things right. This is old school, old testament. The clicking of horses’ hooves may be heard in the drums, the throb of the low bottom bass like the rumbling of chariot wheels, with brave horns leading the charge. This is pure Reggae music, the sound of the soil. And Burning Spear is tilling it up. Lyrically, unquestionably Rastafarian, and so always implying, ‘or else.’ On ‘The Invasion,’ for example, humility is called forth from the people, manifesting in the practice of ‘wadada (love),’ but for the purpose of appeasing divine wrath. Now, I suppose, being a humble, loving person for whatever reason is a better practice than being arrogantly hateful or hatefully arrogant; still, an awful lot of this LP was forecasting righteous payback on the wicked, and redemption for the oppressed, but said redemption dependent upon the condition of a show of genuine humility. Again, always in the background of the lead vocalist’s admonition to ‘Do right,’ for example, on the opening song, is the silent refrain, ‘Or else.’ No mercy for the wicked may be found here, nor ‘shall (they) enter this (Jordan) river… Jordan river a go roll.’ ‘You go your ways, and I go mine,’ Burning Spears states on ‘Give Me.’ I demand you give me, and in the widest possible application, my freedom. Or else. While I don't share that theological understanding, I am at least familiar with it, as well as the lives of some of those with whom this kind of liberation theology resonates. ‘Slavery Days’ was the most difficult, but instructive song to listen to, with its painful recount of the abominable commerce of slavery. It’s a litany of sorrow to the repeated refrain of ‘Do you remember the days of slavery?’ But again, to the accompaniment of optimistic, hopeful horns rising above the drone downtempo vibe underneath, as if to caution the listener to not allow the significance of their lives and deaths to be lost. Black lives matter. More than matter. There is a bigger picture. ‘Garvey’s old yet young.’

Never was into reggae, but always appreciate an album inspired by political and social movements.

Nothing better than a Reggae album on a Saturday morning to start a long holiday weekend. Musically it is always a good vibe for me. Rhythmically it's impossible to sit still while listening. Check out Dub Side of the Moon by Easy Star All-Stars for some killer reggae that's less socio-political lyrically or something by Mutabaruka if you want a bit more. I really dig the bass, I feel like my life would be better if I made the effort to learn how to play reggae music on bass. On my third listen now and will probably dive into the rest of the catalog.

Reggae is not one of my regular, go-to genres and in many instances I would probably say, "it's not my thing." BUT, I do appreciate the subversive political message of some reggae, and this album hits that mark on the head. Far from the stereotype of laid back party music to listen to while you smoke pot on the beach, this album is edgy and angry, with a powerful political message. Musically, I don't like it as well as Bob Marley (but that's a high bar), but perfect production and instrumentation isn't everything. This album is very cool, and I can see why it's on the list. I'd probably give it a 3.4-3.7 if I had more granular options, but I'll round up to 4/5 because it's different and cool.

Beyond Bob Marley, I’m not too familiar with reggae. This album however felt very familiar. Beside the classic reggae beat, Burning Spear incorporated a lot of soul and almost Motown like motifs. The music had a great groove and was a lot of fun to listen to. The lyrics confront a colonial legacy and elaborate on Rastafarian beliefs. Burning Spear want the listener to know who they are, what they stand for, and what they believe.

Distinct memory of pulling this for a college radio show - no recollection what inspired it, I wasn’t much of a reggae listener and had probably never heard anything besides a Bob Marley greatest hits album. I also remember actually reading up on Marcus Garvey as a result, though typical of my early 90s memories it’s hard to recall how I did so in those pre-internet days. I guess I must have gone to the damn library. Anyway my first introduction to the wider world of reggae and dub.

My first concert was Jimmy Cliff, of whom I was totally ignorant. Burning Spear opened and I was blown away by the stage presence and the bass. I got into Jimmy Cliff but never followed up on Burning Spear's work. This is fantastic for a reggae novice like myself. Love the combination of politics and art.

I was expecting a burning spear of anger and righteousness and got a welcoming circle of friends warming their hands.

The beats of chill reggae album makes me pine for a nice day on a tropical beach. Listening to the lyrics though, Burning Spear's singing about very serious and unhappy themes: slavery, poverty and oppression. Made me look up information about Marcus Garvey, Burning Spear and Jamaica's political history that I am glad to have learnt.

I honestly thought that I didn’t like reggae, but I guess I just didn’t like other reggae. This album was really dope and I can see why it belongs here. I don’t know that I’ll listen to it again, but I enjoyed the ride. I also love the talk about Marcus Garvey and the Black Star Line. What a crazy part of history.

Nice, some reggae! Honestly wouldn't have expected an album like this one here. Without knowing much at all about reggae, I think this album is great. Some great conscious lyricism, contrasted by the pleasant island vibes. I feel like I'm on island time, but I've got a serious zoom call in an hour. This was really enjoyable! Feels much more authentic than the ska/reggae album we had a little while back from The Specials. Favorite tracks: Slavery Days, Marcus Garvey, Tradition, Live Good. Album art: I love this one. The art style is fantastic, the text is bold and strong, and the imagery perfectly conveys the heft of the subject matter. Very, very cool. 4/5

Very solid old school reggae. Reminds me of toots and maytals.

Love me some good reggae music. Makes you feel like you're relaxing on a beach

The trance-like nature of the form speaking about human horrors in an almost matter-of-fact way somehow makes the horror more impactful. The musicianship is really good -- they're clearly good at their art.

Reggae really isn't my thing but this might be some of the best I've heard. It's somewhat a shame that it is clear that there is a message that is so specific to the Jamaican context and black experience that I only begin to understand. There are surely those who get a lot more out of the content of the lyrics than I ever will. I will say that the lyrics have a haunting quality to them and yet a certain melancholy to some of the songs, not necessarily for what was but for what could have been. It is a beautiful but heavy album. There are movies that I have watched that I describe as great movies that I will never watch again, and I have finally found my musical equivalent. I'm glad to have listened to it but it is unlikely that I will seek it out again, but I am interested in exploring more of Burning Spear's discography though.

Every song sounds exactly the same. This sounds like every raygay album song I’ve ever heard. Boring and too long. The bass sounds good I guess?

Why is reggae always the same song over and over? FS: Marcus Garvey

I'm really not a reggae fan, and this won't convert me. I found it to be 33 minutes of the same song with no dynamic changes or anything interesting to keep me interested. Background music at best, for me. But fans of reggae probably love this.

I came into this album with a preconceived notion that most reggae sounds similar. I did not have my mind changed. The rhythm I get, but the same two chord progression gets old.

Lazy music, lazy lyrics. Makes you feel lazy or want to smoke a spliff. Nothing to really dislike, but reggae is definitely not my thing. I did actually listen to the whole album as I drove to and from the chemist.

Lyrically a very impressive album. Releasing this in the west in the 70s was very bold and must've been incredibly difficult. Musically, it just isn't for me. I find reggae super repetitive even in the best instances and this entire album suffers from the same issues I have with almost all reggae.

🗑️

I would rather listen to almost anything else besides reggae

I loved it. It's on a par with anything Bob Marley & The Wailers created. Maybe it helped that I listened to it on the warmest day of the year, with the sun shining etc. Several incredibly good tracks, no weak ones. I had to re-listen straight after the first run through.

partial to this album from back in the day

aika natsa albumi huhhuh 5

Hardcore political roots reggae with heart and soul for days, weeks and months. The lyrics are incredibly cutting. If you were able to shut them out you'd be forgiven for thinking this was all just vintage sunshiney horns and a skanking backbone punctuated with sharp, no-nonsense drum taps. And it is that, but there is also a heap of anti-colonial, anti-slavery rheteric making it something far more substantial. It's a five.

This brother was singing about slavery and I’m over jigging my heart away, I think I’ve lost the plot… Phenomenal album, I will definitely give this one another spin!

Marcus Garvey is a brilliant album and an essential gem of 1970s reggae. As a longtime fan of the era, I had this record on repeat all day—easily spinning it four or five times without ever tiring of it. The tracks are powerful and purposeful, combining uplifting rhythms with a deep sense of righteous anger and spiritual conviction. Burning Spear’s sound is distinctive, and their storytelling is rich with history, identity, and resistance. Favourite Tracks: “Marcus Garvey” and “Slavery Days” stand out as unforgettable—both sonically and lyrically impactful. Least Favourite: Honestly, there isn’t a weak moment on the album Album Artwork: The cover has a strong presence—simple, iconic, and fitting for the message within

Could be my favorite reggae non-Marley reggae album. What a voice and what a vibe

Everything you want out of Reggae and more. I'd really only ever heard the Marleys' Reggae before this. This album is much more direct in it political messages than Bob Marley's. It's a lot harder to gloss over the political messaging when it's not couched in the somewhat thinly-veiled metaphors Bob Marley tended to use. Listeners who don't want any politics in their music would be best served to stay away. Which would be a shame, because musically and lyrically, this album is brilliant. Maybe listening to this in Iowa during a week-long bout of sub-zero temperatures colors my opinion a bit, but I loved this album. 5 stars.

Great

I really need to listen to more reggae. This is heavy roots music with deliberate, slow tempos, three part harmonies, deep bass and excellent production, although apparently Winston Rodney aka Burning Spear (although they were a group at this point) hated the mix that Island Records did. The lyrics are political and spiritual, centring on the Rastafarian aims and ideals. The music is hypnotic and somewhat soothing while the lyrics carry that implied threat, Revolution.

A huge band makes a huge sound and Burning Spear's is uncompromising, A packed horn section brings big bright energy and melodic counterpoint, backup singers deepend the vocals with close harmonies and ad lib flourishes, the drums and percussion are perfectly in the pocket, the guitars add more rhythm with upstroke chords and tight little lines in the high end, the keys are there for more funk in the mid range, and the bass is unstoppable - propulsive and deep, thudding into off beats, swining in anticipation around the rest. Burning Spear's vocals emerge from this mass, weaving in and out, interacting with the rhythms and riffs, stepping back to shout from the pockets, percussively rapping out a line with the drums, rising up to float above for a wail.

Thoroughly enjoyed it - sounds incredible, it's fun but still gives you something to think about. One of the best reggae albums I've heard and certainly the best one in this list so far...

Even if I don’t look at the historical significance, this albums slaps. With the (probably remaster) I listened to, every instrument was clean, punchy just how a perfect raggae album would sound. This might even be better than Exodus. Gotta give both a re-listen

Outstanding!

Reggae

If you like Bob, you’ll probably like this. 4.5 rounding up for Reggae love.

That was a really solid album! Really solid reggae! Politically loaded as most reggae is. Way ahead of its time considering it came out in '75. I enjoyed it so much, that I listened to more Burning Spear stuff after finishing the album. Favourite songs: Marcus Garvey, Old Marcus Garvey, Slavery Days, Jordan River, "Red, Gold and Green", Give Me, Resting Place Least favourite songs: Tradition 5/5

Burning Spear is on fire

I haven't gotten a reggae album this good in a while. Political as ever but catchy as hell, there weren't too many boring spots on this album. Marcus garvey and red, gold, and green were my favs. Also I listened to the first half of this while high as shit riding in a car on a summer night so the lasting memory attached to this album automatically makes it a 5. I am beginning to internalize that reddit post I talked about a while ago regarding how lists like these don't allow for each album to fully stick. Like this would be a soft 4 if I was sober and listening to it in my house in the middle of the day.

Absolutely love this!

Amazing

Excellent album. Influenced a lot of post pop artists, specifically Finley Quaye.

This is Rastafarian magic. Uplifting, meaningful, thoughtful.

Very good. Tight playing and a lovely sprinkling of flute.Favourite tracks Marcus Garvey, Live Good, and Tradition.

Excellent. I'm probably biased because I love reggae and it's 30 degrees celsius where I am now, so the album sounded even better. Now to track down the original release.

Never listened to much reggae and this is new to me but it’s great! Will be listening to this again (and again!)

Favourite song - Tradition

Bro just spoke facts over the most GNARLY reggae beats for half an hour. Jokes aside, this is excellent. Really no point in the tracklist that I wanted to turn off, and that is a great album to me. The incredible bass and tune of the opener is a highlight for me, but this energy persists throughout without being overbearing. Would have loved to have seen this live in its prime 😆

Top tier. Every track is good, great instrumentation, and what a voice! I can’t think of a flaw so has to be 5. Immaculate vibes. Favourite track: Live Good

This whole album is fantastic. Not just perfect reggae, but perfect music. Really lovely, energetic and enjoyable. Not a damn thing wrong with this record.

Mellow and powerful and scathing and soothing and light and heavy all in turns. Many levels to enjoy this on and you could just have it on in the background all day.

Nice, groovy, jazz? , Carribbean, a slay

Good old school reggae with sincere meaningful lyrics

Reggae greatness. A nice addition to the pantheon of the golden age of reggae.

Already love Marcus Garvey. This whole album is fantastic. Not just perfect reggae, but perfect music. Really lovely, energetic and enjoyable. Not a damn thing wrong with this record.

This is like the soundtrack of my childhood

really nice and fresh

5 stars

Nice

I really enjoyed this! Maybe I should listen to more Jamaican music...

This is the reggae I wish more people knew about.

Damn I love all the grooves on this thing, I don't know if the songs were getting better as it went on or if i was just really getting into it. The production is great too, the horns, vocals, other instruments are just the right volume, and the basslines pop right in the center. As a big fan of the bass, i'm slowly learning that i've been missing out on reggae and dub music.

I am no Reggae expert, but this was very enjoyable and obviously extremely authentic.

Lyrics: Burning Spear's lyrics in "Marcus Garvey" are deeply rooted in Rastafari and Pan-Africanism, reflecting the artist's commitment to social and political consciousness. The album takes its title from the iconic Jamaican National Hero Marcus Garvey, a key figure in the Rastafari movement. The lyrics often convey messages of resistance, empowerment, and unity. The poetic and metaphorical language used by Burning Spear enhances the album's lyrical depth, making it a timeless exploration of African identity and heritage. Pros: Poetic Depth: Burning Spear's lyricism goes beyond mere storytelling, delving into profound philosophical and spiritual themes. Political and Social Relevance: The album's focus on Garvey's philosophy and broader themes of self-determination and resistance adds a layer of social consciousness to the lyrics. Cons: Repetition: Some may argue that the repetitive nature of certain lyrics, a characteristic of reggae, might be a drawback for listeners seeking more varied content. Music: The musical arrangements in "Marcus Garvey" are a perfect embodiment of roots reggae. Burning Spear's vocal delivery is distinctive, characterized by his deep, resonant voice. The instrumentation, featuring traditional reggae elements such as skanking guitar, melodic basslines, and steady drumming, creates a foundation that complements the lyrical content. The album also features the famous group The Black Disciples as the backing band, adding to the authenticity of the sound. Pros: Authentic Reggae Sound: "Marcus Garvey" epitomizes the roots reggae genre, showcasing the quintessential elements of the genre with a raw and authentic feel. Vocal Delivery: Burning Spear's emotive and powerful vocal delivery adds an extra layer of authenticity and sincerity to the music. Cons: Limited Musical Experimentation: While the album excels in its chosen genre, some listeners might wish for more experimentation in terms of musical styles and arrangements. Production: Jack Ruby's production on "Marcus Garvey" is often praised for capturing the essence of Burning Spear's vision. The album's sound is characterized by its simplicity and clarity, allowing the message in the lyrics to take center stage. The use of dub techniques, with echoing vocals and instrumental breaks, adds a layer of depth to the overall production. Pros: Clarity and Balance: The production strikes a balance between the vocals and instruments, ensuring that the listener can fully absorb both the message and the music. Effective Use of Dub Techniques: The incorporation of dub elements enhances the overall listening experience, adding a dynamic quality to the sound. Cons: Lack of Studio Experimentation: Some critics argue that the album's straightforward production might lack the studio experimentation found in other contemporaneous reggae albums. Themes: "Marcus Garvey" revolves around themes of African identity, resistance against oppression, and the teachings of Marcus Garvey. The album serves as a cultural and historical document, preserving the ideologies of the Rastafari movement and the broader Pan-African struggle. Each track contributes to a cohesive narrative that reinforces the themes of unity, self-awareness, and social justice. Pros: Consistency in Theme: The album maintains a consistent thematic thread, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Cultural Preservation: Burning Spear's dedication to preserving and promoting African culture and heritage is evident in the thematic richness of the album. Cons: Niche Appeal: While the themes are powerful and meaningful, they might limit the album's appeal to a specific audience interested in reggae's cultural and political dimensions. Influence: "Marcus Garvey" has had a lasting impact on the reggae genre and beyond. It is often cited as one of the essential reggae albums, influencing subsequent generations of musicians. The album's messages of empowerment and resistance resonate far beyond the Caribbean, inspiring listeners globally to explore their cultural roots and stand against oppression. Pros: Legacy: The album's enduring influence is evident in its continued relevance and the recognition it receives as a cornerstone of reggae music. Global Impact: Burning Spear's messages have reached a diverse audience, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. Cons: Limited Mainstream Recognition: While influential within reggae circles, "Marcus Garvey" may not have achieved the same level of mainstream recognition as some other seminal albums from the era. Conclusion: "Marcus Garvey" by Burning Spear stands as a landmark album in the reggae genre, encapsulating the spirit of roots reggae with its potent combination of conscious lyrics, authentic music, and thematic depth. Despite its niche appeal, the album's influence has been far-reaching, solidifying its place in the annals of reggae history. The cons, such as repetition in lyrics and a lack of mainstream recognition, are minor when compared to the album's overall impact and significance. "Marcus Garvey" remains a powerful testament to the potential of music to convey profound messages and spark social change.

I really like this album. First thing on this list I was totally unfamiliar with Substantial and engaging but still fun to listen to

very good album

Loved this. A powerful reggae masterpiece

Essential roots reggae.

Tradition is probably my favorite Burning Spear song. Summer before last, D fell asleep at a Burning Spear show 💤

day 148. so chilling and soft, i can listen to reggae forever 9.5/10

Very good!

One of the best Roots Reggae albums: tight, funky, dense, political, dark, brooding, danceable. There are just too many adjective one can use to describe this album. It’s seminal but also unlike any other album in it’s genre. Please just listen to it if you haven’t already.

High quality reggae from the master probably one of the genres mist defining and awesome albums, the qualityvof his voice never fails to astound.

Superb album, hits the spot

A great album. He re made it away from Island Records as Garvey's Ghost. Which was great too. I really enjoyed listening to this and then went down a dub rabbit hole all afternoon.

Great reggae album from the 70s. Got it on a cd together with the dub version, and one should really listen to both albums in one go to fully appreciate this album (similar to "In the Light / In the Dub") but anyways.. 5 stars of course.

Top class reggae album.

My brother and I listened to this on a long bike ride around the greater Stevenage area and I can't lie, we felt cooler than we cooler than we could possibly deserve. Groovy, tight, political, concise. The pulse syncs with your own very nicely and you become giddily aware you are listening to a perfect expression of the form. Reggae classic, no question about it.

Great. My kind of reggae. Really nice and interesting musically and wel produced.

I'm convinced there is a central reggae sound and the likeability of the albums drop off pretty quickly with deviations from this centre. Thankfully this has that central sound.

Ace

One of a number of releases that legitimately lay claim to the greatest reggae album ever. The instrumentation is superb and Winston Rodney is at his peak as a leader. This is more " Rastafarian" focused than many of the other popular reggae releases from this period, which provides a link to the overt political tone. A classic.

I'm sure bad reggae album exists but thankfully I have not heard one.

Happy music, no juice needed. history, reality, uplift, be be beeee.

I listened to both the international version found here in the book and the original version. Both are excellent. I don’t have much more to say, other than you should play this album and play it loud, on a good system - it will blow you away.