Reviews (page 6 of 12)
I always love to hear some bob marely, and No Woman No Cry is an absolutely fantastic song.
4.5
Another good offering from Marley but not as good as the others.
Bob Marley is great. Not my favorite album but still great. Had never heard this version of no woman no cry before, I don’t think I liked it as much as the one I’m used to hearing on the radio
Great representation of what Reggae is/should be. Only one really big hit, but this is strong all the way through.
I enjoyed it all the way through but I just can’t get to the 5. Unlike the other Bob Marley albums we heard this one just did not really wow me in the same way. It was pretty jarring to hear the studio version of “No Woman No Cry” as I guess I’m so used to the Legend live version. He’s still one of the GOATs but this gets a 4.
Nice easy listening. Classic.
No Woman No Cry 🥲
Surprising underdog. Good background music. Lots of hits.
Its ok.
Solid stuff, even if there's a few filler tracks
Gran disco de Bob. De los comienzos, cuando todavía no era tan rockero. Tiene unos vientos y arreglos increíbles. Arranca con temazos (acá está No Woman...) y después se pincha un poco.
First reggae album I’ve ever listened to and it was better than expected
Almost makes me want to like reggae.
Bob is always jammin. 7/10
Not my favorite Marley album. There are a few decent songs but even the hits are lesser known on this one. Even the topics are more serious and not the usual joyous tone of the big Marley hits. 7/10
I really enjoy Bob Marley. I don’t care for reggae artists less good than Bob Marley. 4/5
Bob lypsää hämmästyttävän paljon yksinkertaisimmista sointuvaihdoksista ja parin nuotin melodioista: kun biisi tuntuu junnaavan, yhtäkkiä iho nousee kananlihalle. Levy tarjoaa jotain, jota kannattaa yrittää ymmärtää. No Woman No Cry ei haittaa asiaa.
Well that was not the “No Woman No Cry” version I was expecting. But the rest was Bob Marley as expected. I wasn’t familiar with the rest of “Natty Dread,” but it felt familiar all the same.
Chill
Enjoyed the first few tracks.
Points away for "No women No cry"
Rating: 8/10 Very chill vibes, some of the ideas get a bit redundant on the second half. Favorite songs: Lively Up Yourself, No Woman No Cry, Them Belly Full, Rebel Music, So Jah S'eh, Natty Dread. Worst song: Am-A-Do.
(track 8) HE FEELS LIKE BOMBING WHAT??????????
I love the genre, and really dig most of Marley's music. I've never listened to this particular album, so it was great to hear a few that were new to me.
Aaait
Eating good ramen while listening to this, which is about as much of a high as lighting up 🔥
Iconic reggae. I dare you to not bob your head to the beat.
All about the feels. This album ends too soon. Of course not only does the sound feel good but the positivity just washes over.
Great
No Woman no cry e stört bra. Annars slog nt albumet som de borde
I won’t ever just put Marley on but anytime it comes on, I’m into it. Lively up Yourself is a tune I hadn’t ever heard and it has the standard Marley chill vibes with some fuck to it, great track. Really enjoy this version of No Woman, No Cry just sounds a bit more vocal forward. So Jah Seh was another standout, just a really strong album overall. No complaints, 4 stars
Can't think of a bad Marley album, though I haven't quite listened to them all. Strong start with "Lively Up Yourself" and the iconic "No Woman No Cry". Everything just flows effortlessly for the most part, makes for a laid-back listen.
Reggae touches my soul
Not my favorite Bob Marley but still pretty darn amazing.
If i was going to listen to a reggae album, it'd probably be this one
A lot of good songs and one of Bob Marley’s best. If I was still in my high school weed smoking days, it’d be 5 stars. Instead it’s 4.
I dare anyone to not enjoy Bob Marley on at least some level.
Hadn't come across this one before. Really enjoyed it. Particularly liked Lively Up Yourself, Them Belly Full, Talkin’ Blues and Am-A-Do
I will always be a Marley fan. Whether it be active listening or playing in the background, his music knows no boundaries. While I am more familiar with his Uprising album, the social and spiritual aspects of his music are the common thread throughout his catalog, and they are ever present on this work too. Pass the doobie from the left hand side and enjoy these positive vibrations.
...in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes...and Eric will rate all Bob Marley albums no less than 4*. Honestly not sure I've ever listened to a Marley album other than Legend, so I was really glad to see this on the list. Straight vibes. 3.75/5
Gear: DCA ÆON 2 Noire Mix: Chillig, jedoch detaileich! Musik: mag ich. sehr. Wertung: 🥦🥦🥦🥦(🥦)/5
Good stuff. Not much to say that hasn’t been said about Bob Marley. Relaxing music, powerful message. Classic.
Chillin’ with Bob Marley.
This is never going to be my favourite, but whilst it is on I had a very nice time.
<3
There's more nuance in reggae than I can hear -- political, spiritual, cultural-- but mostly what I get is the infectious groove. This site has some interesting info on Jamaican music (https://musicmap.info/#). Though seemingly simple and repetitive, you can tell how influential and evergreen it remains. It's a good album and a great way to start the day. 4.2 (This album cover freaks me out - looks AI generated.)
The Wailers weren't the same after Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer left. 'Natty Dread' then marked the sound of Bob Marley with his a bit of rock influenced stuff. It was never as important as the first two albums for the the innovation in reggae music. It's still a great album though with many tunes Bob Marley was famous for. While it lacks a bit of the magic it is still a great listen.
Reggaes always hit or miss for me, but I really enjoyed this one.
not a fan del género, pero no puedo más que reconocer la importancia cultural de bob incluso fuera del reggae. respecto al album, enjoyable
Wow cuántos hits, tantos que la familia sigue remixeando y suenan aun bien
Great album to chill to
Have to admit, I hadn't listened to this entire album, or if I had it was a veeery long time ago. Anyway, it's excellent. Added bonus, Spotify started playing Jimmy Cliff after the album was done, and that's worth 5 starts on it's own
Bob Marley is so much more than a stoner.
Banger
I like Bob Marley's reggae. Listening the album I missed the bass a little. May be a problem of my headphones.
Natty Dread is another completely colorful record and solid tracklist in Marley’s catalog, as well one that is rewarding upon return listens. For me, Marley takes a big step forward in writing and arranging from Catch a Fire (another very good album in its own right). Additionally, the band successfully incorporates so many cool elements of other styles and sensibilities into their unmistakable brand of reggae. From slinky psych to haunting harmonica backdrops, there doesn’t seem to be a shade that didn’t fit this album’s pallet. I think the sonic exploration aids this album in moments where the writing might not be at its most sturdy or successfully hooky. The guitars, piano and horn charts are mostly pretty excellent across this whole album. And not to be forgotten, Marley’s voice is such an amazing and versatile weapon in its own right. Natty Dread offers some undeniable classics, a hook-laden opener and a closer that could have gone on for another 15 minutes and I would have loved every second. 8.5/10
Loved this album. Although it doesn't contain his well-known tracks (obviously 'No Woman, No Cry' is there, but it's a less well-known version) it's a lot more raw and unrefined than some of his later tracks - it almost feels like a live show.
A pioneering album for the whole genre. Whilst I don't like too much reggae in my collection, this was enjoyable for the most part.
Always a good classic
the production on this album is kind of mental
Solid album
This is another album that I enjoyed revisiting through this project. I did a Marley deep dive a couple years ago and it was great to listen to Natty Dread again. This is a great album that perhaps doesn’t quite reach the same impact of some of Bob’s later releases for me, probably because the album version of No Woman No Cry is far inferior to the well-known live version, but each track is thought-provoking and groovy. Perhaps no artist in history has been as good at raising tough social issues through song while also making you feel relaxed as hell. Reggae is such a unique music style that I for one can’t help but move to when I’m listening. My favorite tracks include Lively Up Yourself, Rebel Music, and Talkin’ Blues.
I mean, it's Bob Marley, right? The excellence is kind of built into just about everything he ever did. Deeply soulful, spiritual, and lyrically honest music that's a real pleasure to hear. Fave Songs: Rebel Music (3 O'Clock Roadblock), Them Belly Full (But We Hungry), Natty Dread, Talkin' Blues, So Jah Seh
Enjoyed the sound of the album and the vibes. On first listen all the songs sounded the same, but it's a good sound.
Very good
I like a good reggae album, and this is one. At the forefront is Marley’s unmistakable chanting style of singing, but what stands out to me is the solid group of musicians that surround him. I particularly enjoy the harmonic and rhythmic foundation that Aston “Family Man” Barrett lays down with his bass. I would definitely pull this album out to listen again when a reggae mood strikes me.
Bob Marley does it again. Political statements to a wonderful Reggae beat.
This was my first time listening to reggae overall! I've heard a few individual songs certainly but never gone to an album. I enjoyed this a lot, very "vibey" and I can somewhat hear how this genre eventually evolved into reggaeton as well.
Raggae is echt een zomer genre, met een drankie in de zon in het park, maar niet in een koude auto onderweg naar werk. No Woman No Cry is altijd goed.
No woman, no cry… no man, no one cares!
nice vibey music
Cool album. Blues infused with island grooves. This would be great coffee house music or something to have on when working about the house.
Day23 - other than no woman no cry i didn’t know what to expect from this album. it’s almost 50 years old and still sounds amazing. definitely adding to my library
Never quite rivets or takes flight like Exodus or Catch a Fire, but still good and pleasing (it's the Wailers after all) and particularly edifying in that we now know the origin of "do it with your bad self." "Lively Up Yourself" and "Talkin Blues" are highlights. The takes on familiar songs (most notably "No Woman No Cry") lag other, more canonical versions (including those on Greatest Hits and Best of collections). Rounding up before the soon-to-be-released biopic tempts to round down.
In spite of the fact that DeadHeads love his music, the music is actually really good. But for the fact that they love him, I'd be tempted to think he was a brilliant songsmith.
Een errug lekker album zeg. Begint gelijk goed met Lively up Yourself. Prima baspartijen hier en daar. Na het luisteren van dit album zou ik best een dikke op willen steken
Love the messaging, good background music.
Great groove. Easy to listen to. Bob Marley is never a bad choice.
Slightly weaker from Bob Marley on this one but there were so many solid tracks. As an overall album I felt the lyrics, signature sound and feel to the LP just made it such a solid listen.
Good reggae record
About as iconic as a reggae album gets.
Classic jams
Enjoyed this more than I thought I would.
I like bob marley.
Marley is always so easy to vibe to. My ear is not experienced enough to distinguish so well between his records, but always enjoyable to re-visit him.
Caveat here as a huge Bob fan. His stretch of nine album is frankly unmatched. One or two 3*, two slam dunk 5* and six or so other impeccable entries. This lands near the top as a high4 but still a 4
No Woman No Cry was my fav.
Smooth listening. Enjoyable. Good background music.
Despite not being my typical genre this album was very enjoyable. Fun songs with no woman no cry probably being my favourite overall. All in all pretty damn good.
Pleasantly surprised by all of the clean guitar riffs, blues style call and response licks specifically. The production sounds very clean for 1974. Though the political messages went over my head on initial listening, the vibe is one of hope and peace, at least sonically. I would certainly revisit this album, perhaps a good summer time album on the beach or on a drive with the windows down.
I've never volunteered to listen to any bob marley before this, but I think I get why people like his music.
Classic. Didn’t listen too in detail but what I heard was great
On this version of No Woman, No Cry you can hear how his vocal melodies and vocal signature are what makes him stand out versus other reggae artists. I noticed that BM didn't have writing credit on many of the songs here. Found that he actually did write all of the songs but was in a contractual dispute with Cayman Records so put the songwriting credits in friends' and family members' names as a way to help them while also avoiding the issues with the record company. Amazing that he can produce music that is so infused with lyrics about justice, freedom, religion, and political calls and at the same time so catchy. Why doesn't other reggae come close to the same appeal across the world? I think it's his vocals. Just learned lead guitar is Al Anderson, who played briefly with Aerosmith in Boston, and was invited to play on a Traffic album but never did (before playing with Bob Marley) and played on a later Peter Tosh album. Love the lead guitar noodling with the wah on may of these tracks. I like the Exodus, Survival, and Uprising albums better than ND, and the end of this one is not as good as the start IMHO so I'm leaning toward 4/5 here. This album reminds me that one of the things I like about reggae is the open space left for other instruments like the wah guitar on earlier tracks, and the horns in Revolution, to pop in and give the song life. Great album, and seemingly recognized as Bob's greatest and therefore the greatest reggae album ever, but my taste falls to some of the later albums. Charlie Hunter's jazz version of this album is also great btw.
The first half is full of hits but the rest is also not that bad! I would not have thought that I would like this so much.
Good vibes; no notes.
Can't tell if I liked this or Exodus more, either way it's great easy listening music.
First couple beats and I'm already digging it. LIVELY UP YOURSELF ~~~ another summertime chilling album. Sitting on a dock by a lake. Fav: lively up yourself, them belly full (but we hungry)
Cruisy reggae vibes delivering serious messages
Great vibes
Great album. Well mixed with good use of stereo field.
Gospel music that I can vibe with
Yeahhhh
chill album nice sound love the genre didn't listen very carefully tho, Need to listen to It more while not having anything on my head 4 stars for now
Haven’t listened to a full Reggae album before this being my first recommended for me and wow I was mind blown. Most of the songs sounded emotional and the political tropes pertain to various serious issues. I would need to listen to more Reggae before I can confidentially give this a higher score, but overall no issues and was a great listening experience.
Surprised by the guitar details. Very tasty. Lots of hits. Solid mixing
Reggae ist toll, es lebe Bob Marley
It's OK. Hard not to feel like you're waiting outside a Phuket jetski rental.
Some great stuff. No woman no cry is an all time classic.
Lively Up Yourself - i dabbled in reggae at one point in my life, this is very stereotypical reggae so far. like when people think reggae and Bob Marley, this is what they imagine. (3/5 reggae isn't completely for me. i'm more of a ska type) No Woman No Cry - no bbygrl dont cry ur ass is so fat. wow what a vibe change. love the organ. (4/5 i am starting to vibe to it though. it's very "bob your head and chill") Them Belly Full - interesting that a lot of these song titles are in a pidgin language. okay i was waiting for the activist kind of thing to come out. (4/5 a hungry mob is an angry mob) Rebel Music - alright lay it on me. okay different kind of rebel than what i expected. sus me out? 1974? (4/5 got no birth cerfiticket on me mr cop (:< ) So Jah S'eh - it's kinda sad to know that a lot of the people i've met in my life that like reggae, like the surface level "ahaha lets get high and listen to this on the beach." when the guy that made reggae popular was singing about stuff like this. (5/5 very good song) Natty Dread - good vibe song (5/5 very just chill) Bend Down Low - another "imagine reggae" song. this is a little faster than i feel a stereotypical reggae song might be, but i like the high energy. (5/5 i want to assume The Wailers are great back vocals) Talking' Blues - i'm fucking sorry what to a church cause why? (4/5 funny lyric threw me) Revolution - yeah slimy politicians (5/5 good outro too) Am-A-Do - your bad self (3/5 not the best song to end on but that's okay) so, i am only going to give this album a 4/5. i feel like a lot of the songs are pretty good and a vibe, i just don't necessarily like reggae. something tells me that there is probably a better Bob Marley & The Wailers album that better represents them.
Bob Marley is a legend for a reason. Great range and awesome transitioning on this one.
Me gustó mucho, lo escucharía en ciertas ocasiones.
I really enjoyed dis album, man. Bob Marley, him a great man, yuh know.
Knew lots of these songs, ut ot these verisons (Don;t buy bootlegs kids!). Realy interesting influences and some here and some great playing. Bob is a gateway drug for reggae, great album. my only critisicism it is doesn;t seem like an album, more a colelction of songs.
Første gang Bob Marley har klikket for mig tror jeg, den her plade var virkelig fed
I have a soft spot for this 70s roots reggae
Such chill vibes. Love the reggae instrumentation, with very simple drums, the off-beat guitar that is more percussive than melodic, and the bass and organ driving the melody in the instruments. Very unique sound when compared to most pop and rock.
I could listen to this all day every day and never get bored.
I love Bob Marley, and I love reggae. This is early in Marley's frontman career (debut?), but he had been participating in making reggae with Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh since he was a kid. This is a distinctly Bob album, and man does he differ from his teachers. The sound is so full, the messaging about his life and experiences in Jamaica are clear. The backup singers are on point. Review of Reviews: Mostly adored, reggae just isn't for everyone, i guess. Hard to pick.. Best Track: Lively Up Yourself
The second album that I ever bought was 'Legend', a Bob Marley 'best of'. Still have it, still gets a listen. Speaking of, spinning this whilst barrelling around the Sussex countryside was a pleasure. 'Lively Up Yourself is a triumph. There's a strong social and political core to this album - 'Them Belly Full', 'Rebel Music' and 'So Jah Seh' are all top songs with a message that sounds strong without ever being preachy. I guess some of Natty Dread's appeal is dependent upon whether the listener likes reggae. I like reggae, so yeah - four stars easy, pushing five.
Unexpectedly great - Not usually a fan of Bob Marley.
Classic, though the production makes the music a little less immediate and vital than it could have been.
Makes me want to discover it more
Love reggae, love Bob Marley. This is classic
Good shit
Really solid album, one with a biting message, and at the same time one that you can also just turn up and enjoy the full sound.
I enjoy this, but I definitely think it's missing some major dynamics without Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer.
Hard to give any Bob Marley less than a 4. Especially with some of the bangers on here. I remember on vacation on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica every single establishment played Bob Marley 24/7. That was definitely the way to experience it.
Awesome and so many instruments layered and hiding in the groove, just gotta listen
Soooooo good and bouncy!!
This was great. I understand the appeal of this genre. Bob did it so well.
This was pretty enjoyable. It is almost like Bob Marley is his own genre. I found myself wondering if I liked the songs/his lyrics or if I just liked listening to his voice and vibe and guitar. I also found myself wondering if I really care!
Banger !
It’s a good album. While regea is not really my cup of tea, I liked the sound of this album, the jumpy melodies and the voice of bob Marley made for an experience that made gain a deeper appreciation for the genre.
Some great songs on here, I enjoyed this one much more than Catch a Fire. I still somewhat stand by my opinion that the "Legend" compilation is all the BM one needs, but this album is deserving enough of this list.
Solid 4.5.
Essential reggae. Political as heck while also being soothing and mellow.
I fucking love funky/jazzy bass and electric guitar. It's like the one good excuse for weird ass flow and a way for non traditional western music to be actually good. Didn't skip a single second of this album. Dont know what the fuck Bobby was wailing on about(triple entendre) but I think he's got a point. Might throw this shit on when I'm feeling silly. Strange, this really isn't music but whatever honestly it's the epitome of chill like that so close enough. 8.5-9/10
Front half was better than the back half, ending section is a bit of a miss, overall a great album. Provided a comfortable / soothing listening experience. Better than I expected, 8.2/10
4 stars
Uplifting positivity is one of the best traits of this album. No Woman, No Cry is the clear single that everyone knows but it was far from a standout track here, being outshone, at least for me, by Talking Blues.
Enjoyed it more than I thought I would. Well made album, feels much more relaxed than maybe some more modern reggae.
Classic reggae, can’t go wrong 4/5 Favourite Song: Revolution
"my feet is my only carriage and so, I've got to push on through" Easy listening and with some classic Bob Marley tunes I am going to be hearing upstrokes in my sleep thanks to this
Not the biggest fan of reggae but this is a great album
Cool reggae
My knowledge of reggae is very limited but I never quite clicked with the genre. A lot of it sounds the same to me, though I'm sure I'm missing things. Bob Marley is the one exception for me where the music really stands out among the rest. His music seems to me to be more dynamic and less predictable than his contemporaries and it does make me want to explore the genre further to try to see what I've been missing.
fun listen, not huge into reggae but enjoyable overall
El mejor hasta la fecha. Algún tema mítico y otros que bastante bien
Some of the songs were simple, other songs I really enjoyed. Especially "Lively Up Yourself" and "Revolution".
Haven’t listened to many of Bob’s works but I’d say this is a really good place to start for an intro.
Enjoyable album to listen to.
Fun sound. Words probably need another couple listens
classic
Loved this. Another case of an artist where we are so focused on the hits that we tend to forget the albums.
I love this album! 4 stars, I listened to this many years ago and loved it!
Although I heard some reggaes before, I'd never heard Bob Marley. Upon hearing it, it's clear the influence in some modern music that come from it, and it come off as a very original work that cemented a genre. There are some songs that don't stand out so much, but it's overall a great album, with the lyrics expressing very strong ideals about freedom and revolution. "Them Belly Full (But We Hungry)", "Talking Blues" and "Revolution" were my favorite songs.
Some good new songs, not totally my vibe for listening to Bob.
I really enjoyed the album. I've been wanting to get into reggae for the past few months now so I'm glad that this was my listen for today, I thought this was a strong introduction to this type of music. No Woman No Cry is a classic for good reason but so many of these songs were catchy and fun to listen to. Great pick for today.
Good tunes.
Classic vibes
good chill album
Better than I expected. Repetitive, but somehow it works. Favorite song: Them Belly Full
Enjoyed this
Honestly, all the Bob Marley albums so far have been solid 4s: Great. They're a bit dated and I wouldn't say I LOVE them, but they're perfectly pleasant. Will listen again, probably in like 3 years when the exact mood hits. 🤷😅
Reggae has never been my favorite, which is only to say I don’t search out Reggae tunes/records, but I can easily let it play in the background of a day at the beach (or even the pool), it’s actually quite perfect there… and this certainly seems a fine Reggae album. Of course I’ve heard “No Woman, No Cry” before and probably even parts of others, but listening and following lyrics a little closer because of this project/website though, so catching references and themes I certainly never would’ve noticed while simultaneously searching for my lost shaker of salt… but was pleasantly surprised at how well this also went with my Saturday morning coffee. Might just have to let this one spin again soon.
some great reggae jams to get through the day. good album.
I have not listened to an entire Bob Marley album before "Natty Dread" appeared on the 1001 albums generator. The songs are great, but a bit similar. Al Anderson's lead guitar on some songs is fantastic.
Marley is uiteraard bekend, maar dit album kende ik eigenlijk niet. De hit No Woman No Cry horen we in de originele versie, waar we juist de live versie als hitje kennen (met de typische microphone feedback piep halverwege). Reggae van Marley verbaast zelden en stelt ook zelden teleur moet ik zeggen. Gewoon een lekker relaxed plaatje, perfect voor het (vermoedelijk) laatste zomerse weekend van het jaar.
It's Bob Marley, so I liked it, not a perfect album, but definitely a 4-star for the sheer musicality alone.
Really enjoyed this, up there with the best Reggie albums Iv heard, such a feel good sound.
my first bob marley experience left a little to be desired. but we are turning a new page with bob marley experience #2. not sure if i am in a better mood today or what, but i much preferred this album to my first listen, catch a fire. this album is a fun listen! it's got that classic reggae feel but feels a bit funky too, which is something i appreciate. feels a little more upbeat and less lethargic. I can see myself listening to this one again in the future, it feels more in line with what i like stylistically.
Nice, chill album!
This is very close to a 5 for me, but there are a few dull moments in the second half of the album
Solid
4/5. Amazing instrumentation and heavy lyrics with still a chill vibe. Some okay songs but not a single bad one on here. Very close to a 5 but need more time to listen.
i should get into psychedelics. fav songs: them belly full, rebel music, talkin blues, revolution, am-a-do.
Nice to hear a lot of familiar songs in their original production format - didn’t realise just how much of Bob Marley I loved was rerecorded. I once had 4 Bob Marley t shirts on regular rotation, for a good year or so he was my absolute God. Definitely overplayed him, but there’s no denying the absolute legend he was. I’d love to know if there’s an artist with a ratio of songs about injustice as high and as powerful as BM. Either way, even on a grey miserable British Summer day, it feels sunny listening to this.
On balance I preferred the prior Bob Marley album, but this one is pretty great. Easy to listen to in the background, but just when you find yourself tuning out you'll hear something surprising. First half of the album better than the second half.
Said it last time, but it's hard not to enjoy Bob Marley. Think I preferred this one to the last album we had. The version of no women no cry was more interesting than the more frequently played one. Lively up yourself is a classic. Thought them belly full was good too. Maybe gets quite samey after a while but it's super easy to listen to
Good Wailers album, will need a second listen, but enjoyed the first listen
Lekker album, ga ik vaker luisteren.
Solid reggae album with some of the classics, couple unusual version, dripping cool. Not quite their best.
It's Bob what else can you say?
Quintessential Marley. Celebrates Jamaica’s spirit while criticizing her faults.
Reggae suave. Un megahit. Un 4.
LP
The first half is very strong with Lively Up Yourself, No Woman, No Cry, Them Belly Full, Rebel Music, So Jah S’eh and Natty Dread. The final few songs aren’t as good but they are still decent songs.
Bob Marley is one of those artists where you he pretty much encompasses all you need in that style of music; it seems to be all that needs to be said. It's happened a few times: Fusion --> Mahavishnu Orchestra / John McLaughlin Reggae --> Bob Marley You listen to a "Best of" from him and that pretty much covers all of what you need to know for reggae. The problem is, when you hear older versions of those songs, they sound weird. For example, the studio version of "No Woman, No Cry" here sounds too peppy and upbeat. The slower, live versions I've heard, which the band jams out on more are much more satisfying. Most of the other songs on the album are at a good temp and such, but that studio version of "No Woman No Cry," it just... digs right in there as being so wrong. It's like hearing an upbeat, version of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah". Just on that alone I have to downgrade the album to a 4.
Lively Up Yourself is not a song I remember but it is a great start to the album. Then it's followed by the recorded version of No Woman No Cry, which pales in comparison to the live version (thanks to a hokey sounding organ and too much tempo). I usually don't like live versions better, but this is one of those songs. Lyrics are still very good. That track's production disappointment aside, the musical styling on this album is pretty good and so is his social and other commentary. Other favorites were the title track (funky grooves), Talkin Blues and Revolution (commentary), and Them Belly Full and Rebel Music (both grooves and commentary). Good album, but some flaws.
Another legendary album - cool!
Marley was a gift of light in a dark world. What a treat this album is. Your rhythm section here is TIGHT while Bob’s vocals just convince you that we all have a role to play here in bringing real change to the world.
As Marley's dreads flowed free, so too did his music and the messages woven within.
A classic reggae record by the King of the genre. Magical.
This album has such distinct and unmistakable vibes. Reggae isn't typically my thing, but I really enjoyed this listen and would listen to this above any other reggae album I've heard so far.
It's Bob Marley - that warm, chilled feeling. Ironically I didn't enjoy the recorded version of No Woman No Cry as much as the more oft-heard live version, but other than that, a solid album.
very nice.
Reggae. Bob Marley. It’s nice and exactly what I expected it to be. I feel like I should be drinking a piña colada on the beach not walking around lower Manhattan. I totally get why this got popular (relaxing, good vibes, progressive lyric themes) but also cannot imagine anything like this getting popular today. It really feels like a unique product of the moment, but one that I’m glad happened. Favorite song: No Woman No Cry Others: Them Belly Full (But We Hungry), So Jah S’eh, Talkin’ Blues
Good stuff. Ironically, the one song from this album I was familiar with, "No Woman, No Cry," was one of my least favorite tracks on the album. I'm used to the live version on Marley's "Legend" album, which is definitely superior to the original. But no true complaints here. I enjoyed this thoroughly.
Something about Bob Marley & The Wailers that puts me in a good mood even though some of their stuff is pretty heavy lyrically. I'm not a big fan of reggae, but this was solid.
Great music to get your moving in the morning.
Was somewhat dreading this but it was no where as painful as I expected it to be
Think this s the second Bob Marley album I have had on this list and this one I thought was great. Not heard many albums all the way through by him but this is by far my favourite. Saved it.
pretty good! 👽👽👽👽👽👽👽🙌🤠👐👐🤑👏🏻👻😾👺👺
pretty good, a few catchy tunes
Not the best Marley album, but good nonetheless. "No Woman No Cry" is by far the best song on the album. A good listen overall.
"Revolution" is a banger!
It's Marley through and through.
Love bobs early stuff before it got to “cleaned up” in the studios
Awesome
Juicy tracks from one of the greatest.
Bob Marley's Natty Dread is a refreshing departure from the usual hits found on Legend. This doesn't mean the album is subpar; rather, it showcases the depth of Marley's back catalogue. Natty Dread is a cohesive and soulful album, featuring a collection of songs that blend together seamlessly.
I can't stand reggae but this album has genuinely come as a shock - I quite like it. Though the normal repetitive rhythms are being used the influence of blues and soul seem to be making an appearance here. This could be the start of a beautiful friendship... Best Tracks: Lively Up Yourself; No Woman No Cry; Am-A-Do
Love it!
Cool. First song sounds like the witch doctor's song from monkey island. Clearly this is the inspiration.
heh reggae genre.. ONKOHAN MOJTA... MONTA ALBUMIA REGGAE GENRESSÄ JOKA EI OLE BOB;,,.. BOB MARLEYN SEKÄ ITKIJÖIDEN TUOTOS.... aika helposti saa pojoja kun ei ole tätä ennen kuultu genreä.... VOI OLA ENSI KERRALLA VAIKEAMPI SITTEN...bassoa vaan vähän kovemmalle heh NIIN HYVÄ TULEE... odotin vähän enemmän tältä kutenkin mutta joo nautin tästä hu, kahdessadas alabumi so jah s'eh
Great album! No Woman, No Cry is the theme here....setting a chill vibe!
He’s the best, 4 stars
ovo je dost dobar album
Not my favvvvorite Bob Marley album but it's a Bob Marley album!
As I get older, I find myself softening on reggae. I still hold the same opinion on the likes of UB40, but I like this. I like the politically charged lyrics that convey agony and anger without it necessarily being a "heavy" song. Favorite tracks: "Them Belly Full", "Rebel Music", "Revolution"
Great album for Friday chill.
Jaa classic, heerlijk
Altijd lekker Bob Marley! Leuk om ook andere nummers te horen in plaats van de klassiekers
It's Bob Marley.. blaze a spiff and enjoy.
About half this record is great and what I love about Marley. The other half not bad, just not exceptional. The title track is probably my favorite along with No Woman No Cry of course.
Exactly what I would expect from Bob Marley. And that's a good thing.
Понимаешь, что это один из ключевых его альбомов, есть хиты. Классический Боб Марли с звонкими гитарами и пинающими барабанами.
Natty Dread nice
Solid top-to-bottom album with a great range of subject matter, melody, and influences. It shows growth despite being a seventh album and missing Bunny and Tosh. Leads strong with some all-timers and brings you along for the ride across the album.
Would listen to this over Exodus. Enjoyed the vibe but small doses work better for me. Still great songs and felt a bit more raw and emotional than later mixes. I definitely preferred this version of No Woman, No Cry.
As I listened, I was thinking how well produced this album is, and how so many subtle percussive and musical elements were woven into the recording. I think it was "No Woman No Cry" where there's a stilted percussion (shaker) part that sounds like something a modern producer might have accomplished post-production, there was just this odd cadence to the beat that stood out that was tricky and just added a subtle change to the rhythm. Really lots of attention to detail and a sign of a true artist at work. But... I'm just not super excited when I listen, on a visceral level. I obviously appreciated elements in the recording, but I won't actively turn the album on because I love the tunes. So a 5 for the craft, 3 for my personal enjoyment... 4 overall.
3.7. The start of the album was good, but then it went a little down hill.
Classic reggae album. great production especially on the percussion section.favorite track: rebel music (3 o'clock roadblock)
Bob Marley is revolutionary but to be honest I find this album slightly bland compared to other reggae I have listened to. Maybe it's power is in the fact that it is Music for the masses taking its message further than more niche (and exciting sounds).
“Lively Up Yourself” is a lovely opener. Bluesy with jazzy horns. “No Woman, No Cry” is of course a classic. So touching. So catchy. Nice to hear it in its original studio version here. (Also, I learned recently that Bob Marley gave songwriting credit of this song to a friend of his who ran a soup kitchen so that the soup kitchen would always have a source of income. How incredible is that?!) I’m noticing that a lot of these songs have a blues influence. Overall strong album and an excellent example of the genre, especially with its political lyrics. Love the backing vocals throughout too.
Groovy as hell. Had the studio version of No Woman No Cry, which is the first I've ever heard it. I really enjoyed this and can't wait to play this in the summer.
Groovy and funky with both heartfelt romantic and harder cool moments. One of the best produced reggae albums, it's super clear filled all sorts of lush instrumentation from horns to gospel back vocals to a harmonica. Marley's voice is distinct and passionate complimenting the politically charged poetic lyrics. Full of strong memorable tracks, although it does weaken in the second half.
Great production, though vocally I think it’s not Bob’s best
Bob Marley's first album without Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer is a powerful socially conscious album that tackles themes of poverty and finding joy, brotherhood, and love in dire situations. Musically, the album is fairly standard Marley, fun, driving, and groovy.
I've never really been a big reggae fan and I still am not. However, taking the time to listen to such artists as Bob Marley and getting the opportunity to appreciate his great work is exactly the sort of thing I signed up for in joining this project.
Hmmm…Reggae, no thanks, but okay, I’ll listen. Wait, what? I was totally in the groove of this album. I did get a bit reggae weary by the end, but I did really like the album.
OK. Reggae's not my favorite but I tried my best to keep an open mind. The first track, Lively Up Yourself, had that typical Reggae thing going but it felt super chill and was catchy. I loved it. No Woman, No Cry was familiar and warm. So far so good. However, the beat and the tone don't vary much and I got pretty tired of it after three or four tracks. So I think I can appreciate it a bit at a time --- I would not mind if any of these songs shuffled up in a playlist now and again --- but I don't know that I'll reach for this album as a whole again any time soon.
Good album. The version of "No Woman, No Cry" here doesn't stand up to the live version on Legend. But other tracks, like "Lively Up Yourself" and "Bend Down Low", are great little reggae tunes. Light up under the sun and and enjoy this nice, breezy listen.
Marley is always great. This album introduced us to “no woman, no cry.”
102 / 1069 Very chill, great first half. Second half ok but not a patch on the first, 5/5 for the first and 3-3.5/5 for the second.
It's great reggae
Something about Bob Marley's music always lifts your spirits. Even when he's singing about oppression and corrupt government. The buoyant rhythms and that inimitable voice just lift you higher. High pun intended.
Nice bounce to it and some fine melodies, not my favourite genre but a fine listen except towards the end where it kind of melted into one song.
Home from school on Friday. Thanks for top tip Susie. Enjoyed the nice calm, tranquil, Caribbean vibe after a hard week.
Listened Before? N More great stuff from Marley. It made me feel like I was in the islands while simultaneously caring about the plight of the poor. Right on, mon. Added to Library? N Songs added to playlist: Natty Dread
Vintage quality through and through.
Just great reggae album from one of the best
Not as smooth as Exodus but still oozes quality
mmm very good
I'm not a reggae fan, but this one made me dancing in my chair during work, and all my anger flow away :)
Soid
I didn't use to like reggae, but thanks to this challenge my taste has definitely expanded to include it! This album is really great, love the mix of different genres influencing, definitely getting loads of soul and even jazzy vibes. Good stuff. Saved songs: Lively Up Yourself, No Woman No Cry, Rebel Music (3 O'Clock Roadblock), Am-A-Do
powerful
Very relaxing music. There are some odd parts in a couple of songs. However, there are some great songs on this album and the easy sway of the music and Marley’s voice is soothing to say the least
This album makes me think of a college dorm room that reeks of bong water, but Marley will always deliver the reggae goods
Absolutely love it
I will never say no to Marley. This was a great album and had the classic No Woman No Cry, though I have been listening to the Tems version on the Black Panther soundtrack and I like that one better, but the original is still a classic.
An absolutely amazing album. Brings back a lot of happy memories for me of a trip to Uganda (where reggae is a heavy influence on popular music), there's few experiences in life more chilled out than driving around the plains of central Africa blasting Bob Marley and watching the Giraffes and the Elephants. The opening of this album is incredibly strong with 'Lively Up Yourself' directly followed by 'No Woman No Cry' (although it always throws me a bit to hear the studio version). The title track is obviously another highlight but I wouldn't say there is a weak song on it. I'm giving it a 4 only because I reserve 5's for my absolute favourites, but its a 4.9
На удивление в альбоме всего одна известная мне песня. Нравится саунд - особенно в части баса и вокала - там нет еще этих избыточных "изысков" как в позднем реггей. Хорошие песни, очень мелодичные подпевки, звучит целостно и благородно.
Reggae is always a pretty easy listen; and this was no exception. But, for me, reggae has been like sushi: I never crave it, but will, occasionally, try some if it's there. This gets an extra star for being really good for what it is.
Along with Dylan, Marley was one of the biggest artists I had yet to listen to a full record of. I would immediately say I understand the hype. Loved the back and forth interplay in the vocals, a bunch of gorgeous hooks and melodies, and still immense production. One slight drawback is that the back half was a little samey, but still, an obviously fantastic record.
never listened to a reggae album end to end before - really enjoyed the relaxed vibe and will def listen again
Great listen. Never listened to a Bob Marley album before, but really enjoyed this. It's a cold and dreary day, and the instrumentation definitely didn't match the weather.
Bob Marley does Bob Marley stuff. Instrumentation is on point with some nice horns sprinkled throughout. The songs do start to blend a bit together around the title track, but there are still some great tunes in the social commentaries of 'Them Belly Full (But We Hungry)', 'Rebel Music' and 'Revolution'. And the melody on 'No Woman No Cry' is just superb.
There are few artists that I could listen to for days without end. Bob Marley is one of them. The first album to not feature original Wailers Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh proves that Marley was fully capable of not only carrying on without the others - he was able to do it just as well. Family Man provides one perfect bass line after the other and the spiritual and politically charged lyrics are mesmerizing - especially on one of my favorite tracks of the entire discography, “Them Belly Full (But We Hungry”.
This is a really good album. It shows his mindset and how it was so focused on loving his people and allowing them to love themselves so much. I love the first 5 songs for sure. There is something that you can't get away from when listening to this album, such a transcendent peace above these financial stipulations we put on ourselves. He shows his richness in his words and his love for music 8/10 Top 3 songs: Rebel Music, Them Belly Full(But We Hungry), Bend Down Low
notes - classic reggae album - has the song “no woman no cry” - bob marley is an iconic figure for his music and the message that he put into it - songs about poverty, the rasta movement, political imbalance - all over top of laid back easy to get into grooves - ive never been a huge reggae fan BUT i think this album had strong enough songs and performances that i was able to get over the elements of reggae that im not huge on - ESPECIALLY the guitar playing, really interesting rhythm and note choices fav - them belly full - big fan of the guitar intro and the vibe of the song least fav - bend down low - felt a little nursery rhyme-y to me as a non reggae fan this was still an enjoyable listen, 4/5
Sings about such sensitive topics in such a brautiful manor, very influential into the new hip hop gennre andd just a joy to listen too
Not a big fan of reggae but this is definitely among the best one that I heard from the genre. I love the revolutionary lyrics (although I'm not a fan of that ignore-problems-and-just-dance philosophy), and the flow here is great and not monotonous. Bob Marley is such a gem of the genre.
4-
Very nice piece of music
Young me never got Marley. Young me was a bit of a dick.
4/5.
Ikke kæmpe reggae fan, men det var meget hyggeligt
Love Bob Marley, legendary album with great percussion and very fun songs!
Good Marley
Another great album from the man Bob and Co. Really great stuff here. Loved the first half
4 I really enjoyed this one. I’ve always been meaning to listen to Bob Marley & Co but never had a real reason to and boy do I regret it. I was worried I was in store for a repetitive album with an okay track but I definitely got an interesting and varied album. Some major soul, RnB, and jazz elements sprinkled throughout that I absolutely loved. Also Bob Marley has a really nice voice on top of it all. Will definitely be listening again Favorites: Lively Up Yourself, No Woman, No Cry, Them Belly Full (But We Hungry), Rebel Music, Natty Dread
Classics known but not heard the full album -
I don't listen to reggae much. This album is helping me appreciate the genre more. I honestly liked every single song, which is not something I'd ever expect myself to say about reggae. Favorites are probably So Jah S'eh, Bend Down Low, and Talkin' Blues.
Beautiful stuff, joyous and reserved, but also weirdly light imo
good but im not a fan
album para todo el mundo, reggae clasico y roots reggae. favs song: no woman no cry ☆ rebel Music 3 O'Clock Roadblock talkin' blues ☆ revolution 4.3
3-4
I listened to this Lp many, many times as a teen in the mid to late 80s. I probably haven't heard the whole disc since the mid-90s. Fresh listen 2022: the production and sound are solid. The band swings. Great arrangements. Bob would've made one hell of an R&B belter. As I find reggae a bit repetitive and tiresome these days, I wish he'd gone that route. Overall, the musical stylings on this Lp eschew the repetitiveness of a lot of reggae, so it's going back in the rotation.
Loved this album! Some of the gems I've heard a million times. Others, it eas the first time hearing it.
Reggae classic
Pretty entertaining, some nice songs but overall not too much of a fan
Bob Marley mon! 4/5 Best songs: Lively Up Yourself, No Woman No Cry, Natty Dread, (and the rest!!)
It really grew on me; listened to it twice.
Brilliant. 4/5
Bob wouldn't want me to kill the mood with in depth analysis of his tunes, he'd just want us all to smoke some weed and have a good time. And Bob is always a good time. I loved spending my morning with this album, it put me in such a calm, chill mood for the workday ahead. Peace, love, weed, and chill.
Bob always comes through. Those basslines are so sick. Never knew the name "Family Man" before having to figure out who played bass for The Wailers. This might not have many of the timeless classics but it still put me in a better mood.
Some Classics on this album N woman No Cry and Lively up yourself are my favourites. Not as good an album as the later Live at the Lyceum which was his breakthrough Album in England certainly. Rightfully on this list though