Natty Dread

Ikonisk reggae, godt hvis man er til det

Solid album! No Woman No Cry is a classic.

Excellent album. Very much like a chill Will Wood and the Tapeworms.

3.5/5

My unproven theory is that 'Natty Dread' may be the finest showcase of Bob Marley's understanding of how the voice - literal, figurative, symbolic, political - can still connect despite a lack of traditional melodies, choruses, and songwriting structure. Think about it: apart from "No Woman, No Cry," there really isn't any a catchy tune on the record. And yet, his singing on "Lively Up Yourself" is probably the most triumphant and expressive they've ever been and in total communion with his backing singers the I-Threes. Despite the lyrical images of unrest and agitation (there literally is a song called "Revolution"), it is a laid-back vibes-based affair, musically speaking, without clear Marleyesque hooks (apart from the aforementioned "No Woman, No Cry," which was perfected on the 'Live!' record from 1975.) I suppose that would be expected in this transitional period following the departure of Bunny Livingston and Peter Tosh. Of course the album art would consist of Bob, clearly head and shoulders above the world. A-

Good, not great.

Another day, another Bob Marley album. No woman no cry is one of his better hit singles, still don’t really care about reggae though.

With themes of rebellion and social justice. Also misheard lyrics “Hungry mob is a hangry mob”.

Nett anzuhören.

Ok individual tracks and pretty well-rounded as a whole album, but not great.

i really dont like reggae. i get it, i understand what it is, but i just dont enjoy listening to it. it drags, the melodies arent unique from song to song (at least to me), and the vocals are overwhelming in an often unpleasant way. maybe if i wasnt allergic to weed id feel different, but as of now i cant find any true reggae that i like.

Popularized the genre worldwide

The album contains the song "No Woman, No Cry" but not in the well known version. The rest of the album is o.k. Weak three stars for that. 2,5

Funky, fun listen. Stand-out: Natty Dread

Deep deep bass grooves from Aston Barrett, funky-ass clavinet & organ, amazing backing vocals from the I-threes and ga couple of all time great songs. The production/recording are great, just tons of space and loads of room for all the instruments to shine, but also work perfectly as a platform for the lead vocals. It's not his best album as he's missing Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh, but it's still pretty close to the zenith of Reggae, though not yet at the mega crossover pop sensation he'd soon become.

Lovely summer vibes, a little bit sterile for some reason, but a fun album nevertheless.

Incredible. Talking Blues

Great album. Bob Marley and The Wailers were legends and the messages they spread through their music are fantastic and still relevant today.

Enjoyed! 4/5

Recognized ‘I Believe in a thing called love’. I’d listen to this one again.

What a pleasant surprise this album choice was this morning. Bob Marley is one of the goats, and this album was just the perfect soundtrack to my morning. While No Woman, No Cry is not the version that gets the most play, it is still fun to listen to the non-Live recording.

Despite being overexposed to Bob Marley’s music by way of the trust fund hippies I’ve known over the years, I can’t deny that this record, along most of his catalog, is great.

Good reggae album and it is a good intro but still pretty average

Love it.

Was a decent listen

Great change of pace from what I’ve been getting recently. Good vibes, some good songs I’ve never heard either

Cómo me aburre... Se salva No Woman No Cry y Lively Up Yourself

Reggae

Found myself having it on in the background an not picking up on too many details. Ideal for that vibe but Reggae doesn't grab my attention, which limits my enjoyment.

Great album by Bob and the Wailers. “Bend Down Low” is one of my favorite tunes by them. Overall a solid reggae album. 4/5 Will listen again

Music that has the power to make you feel good, feel positive, is simply powerful music. Natty Dread gives you that feeling and then some, you can’t help but to dance when it comes on. Great album!

Bob Marley's reggae feels very consistent to me, it would take quite a few listens before I could really tell a difference between this album and the other two of his that I have encountered thus far on this project. That is in no way a knock against his work, consistent quality is to be commended. Still, this doesn't quite make it as one of my favorite albums or genres. Favorite tracks: "Rebel Music" and "Revolution." (I wonder what that says about me?)

Easy to listen to but not a lot of pop or kick here.

Where you listen to this can have a major impact on the rating. Like the last reggae album, this would be much better on a beach than driving in traffic. That being said, this is right in the 3-4 range.

I have absolutely nothing with reggae music. This doesn't sound like it needs to be on this list (maybe the live album from Bob Marley deserves it more?)

Bob Marley is eerder iets dat ik op de achtergrond zou leggen op een warme zomerdag. 'T is niet echt een artiest waar ik een album van zou opleggen. Ik heb één LP van hem liggen, en da's gewoon zijn best of (Legend). Nu, een slecht album is het niet. Ik heb een paar nieuwe nummers leren kennen door dit album eens te luisteren, zoals Lively up yourself. Meer dan een 2.8 gaat het toch niet worden.

Natty Dread be some good, old school reggae, mon. Don’t remember this album when it came out, Bob didn’t go mainstream for another few years. Only hit off this album was No Woman No Cry, but all songs are jaunty. Enjoyed a short Jamaican vacation with this listen. (3.4*s)

This album is timeless, another I find it hard to be objective on as I know every song here. I get that reggae may not be for everyone, the genre lends itself to a lot of repetition but Bob just does it so well. He manages to evoke super revolutionary ideas without really saying that many words. Just simple lyrics and chill grooves, no skips here at all. Incredible from start to finish.

Not familiar with 95% of this album. Not bad but it sounded much the same throughout. You get the struggles of the starving poor and run-ins with the law that I'm sure Bob experienced firsthand. I mostly will stick with the hits but I'm sure this album deserves the list. I'll check out the One Love movie too...2.35.

I've been told Natty Dread is Bob's best album a couple times in the wild. I was relatively unimpressed after a listen. It's not bad, but I found it pretty generic and did little differentiate or stand out to me. Some decent songs, but overall relatively forgettable. Not something I would turn off and works when the vibes are there, but not something I'll be putting on again. Bob Marley is deservedly the iconic representative of reggae rock. If you walk up to me and ask me if I'm a fan it would be met with a swift and emphatic "Definitely". As I've listened to more of Bob Marley's work it's looking like I'm just a huge fan of the Legend greatest hits album which is loaded with his best work. Not sure I need to delve into his albums but maybe I'm missing something here with Natty Dread. 2.48 stars

Marley is the gateway to all reggae.

I avoided Bob Marley for the longest time because, for the longest time, the only people I knew who listened to Bob Marley were the white stoners from college who had just moved from the suburbs, who pretended that Rastafarianism was like some funny Jamaican Buddhism (but better because Rastas toked), and had mass-produced Che Guevara posters on their walls. I avoided, well, I avoided anything that crowd liked, honestly, so I skipped Mr. Marley. I wish I had heard this sooner. I think that it could have been a foundational album for me in my youth, what with its social commentary over solid beats. No Woman No Cry was the big standout for me, but the entire album was solid.

If I've learned anything in the past week listening to the albums, it's that I need to be listening to more Bob Marley & The Wailers. Just genuinely enjoyable music, that all works together and has a good message. Not a single song where I would want to skip and move on. I will give it a small knock for kind of melding together at times, but another good album form them.

i don't really have much experience with reggae (especially roots reggae) but i'm still somewhat familiar with bob marley through cultural osmosis/cheesy references in 2000's comedy films. for some reason he'd always struck me as an overly positive figure with the post-mortem brand reverence of an act like the beatles -- i honestly should have guessed there's actual substance behind the hype when you actually sit down and give him a listen. yeah, it's positive, but its not ignorantly positive. there's obvious trouble in the world, and especially for the african diaspora of which marley was a part of. it's a good attitude in a world that will not stop causing you and your community pain. some of the more spiritual tracks like So Jah Seh don't engage me as much (i am broadly unfamiliar with most Rastafarian practices) but i don't ever feel like i was being annoyed or preached to. i even kind of like the traditional pop cover on side B! the production is really well done as well, all the instruments feel at the right place in the mix -- that creamy 70's studio goodness. the performances are great and much more unique than i would have thought from the general idea i was given of reggae being a slow, languid genre. sure, maybe there's a couple slow moments, especially on side b, but the only reason this is an 8 instead of a 9 is because i feel like i don't have the context that a more astute reggae/ska/dub fan would have on a record like this. if i revisit this after having heard more jamaican music, i might increase it. who knows? i feel like i've learned something. i might check out more of marley's records later. maybe i don't buy the hype fully, but i at least know that he's immensely talented and MUCH more introspective than i was led to believe.

Forgot to write. Bob Marley. Some good stuff here. Pleasant, tropical, some good messaging. Standouts: No Woman No Cry, Them Belly Full (But We Hungry), Talkin’ Blues, Revolution.

Classic

1. lively - 1 2. no cry - 1 3. belly full - 1 4. rebel - 1.5 5. zo jah - 1 6. dread - 1 7. bend - 1 8. bluez - 1.5 9. revolution - 1.5 10. do - 1

I'm still not a fan of reggae, but I have to admit, this album was not as irritating as other on the list. That deserves a grrat 3 stars, which for reggae record is basically a max available score.

Great Reggae album glad to have it pop up on the list so I could listen to it.

never really enjoyed marleys music tbh but i understand the appeal 2/5

really don't care for reggae but with this guy its almost sui generi. Love the stutters, the repeats in the singing, the lopsided bass and drums. Good stuff.

I was surprised at how much I like this, I am pretty sure this album is the first one without any of the key Wailers. Great stuff regardless.

Iconic album, but doesn't really hit the same way that some of his other music, especially the live version of "No Woman No Cry", does. Feels a bit thin at times.

Authentisch- Gut!

I think reggae is probably the genre that is most difficult for me to get.

How many times is Bob gonna be on here?

Excellent

I hope you like jammin' too!

solid album, felt like a summers day and it was fitting as i was listening to it during a really warm sunny day

Good

Bob Marley is a legend for good reason

Æi... hvað á ég að segja, tengi bara ekkert við Reggae. Ekki leiðinlegt en heldur ekki skemmtilegt. Ekki pirrandi en ekkert kveikjandi heldur. En jú, líklega faglega unnið og allt það. Líka plús svo sem að þetta fari ekki í taugarnar á mér.

lively up yourself- 5 no woman no cry- 4 or 5 kind of boring sorry guys them belly full- 5 rebel music- i like the harmonica. roblox? 5 so jah s'eh- 5 natty dread- 6 bend down low- excuse me? 5 or 6 talkin blues- 5 revolution- 5 or 6 am a do- 5 but you know what isnt irie? favorite track- natty dread

Love it!!

Classic that I will return to

Never been a massive fan of reggae and my exposure to Bob Marley has just been the legends greatest hits album. But I really enjoyed this. Obviously No Woman No Cry is a classic but also Lively Up Yourself, Rebel Music, Natty Dread and Bend Down Low also stood out.

Fantastic album. Always good vibes. Fun beats with meaningful lyrics.

Aïe, je connais Bob Marley avec No Woman, No Cry, mais je n'apprécie pas. Le premier morceau ne me le fait pas plus apprécier, il est tellement répétitif. Allez je me laisse 2 dernières chances ... Définitivement non, trop répétitif, et je n'aime pas du tout cette rythmique à contretemps, quasiment le même dans chaque morceau. Je m'arrête au 4eme. => 1/5

Början av skivan var bättre, mot slutet började allt låta lite lika. It's a vibe stark 2

Just isn’t very good is it? Every single song sounds the same, every single time. Instantly forgettable.

Not a fan.

Pretty good. Some killer, some filler

Not bad, but not too much stood out here. Sounds like early music.

Similar sounds to me

I could listen to Bob Marley every day. Great stuff.

Really solid album from Marley. Enjoyed the sound and vocals. Very enjoyable listen top to bottom.

Pretty solid. He started/continued a style most people didn’t know and he’s great

Felt like I was right back at work (thank you Joe). I do love Bob Marley just to have in the background. It’s such a great vibe and he’s such a great artist at making good vibes. But the flip side (and this is what makes him so good) if you really listen to the lyrics they’ve got some oomph to them which can be a tough line to walk for many artists. Overall a very great album. Solid vibes man.

glad it was a sunny day. good listen while spending some time outside. couple tracks lagged but overall a good listen

Nice and classic

It's ok - I just don't much care for reggae. Every song sounds kind of the same, but fine to bop along with

2nd Bob Marley this week. Makes me really want a vacation

If you like Bob Marley, then you'll love this. Wasn't quite my cup of tea, but wouldn't turn it off if someone else put it on again.

This record was probably not intended for sober white guys in the gym on a Saturday morning. Still, can't say I dislike it — reggae just isn't quite for me.

The state of the UK at present highlights the timelessness of this album. Rioting in the UK in the name of hypocrisy can make you believe this was released only yesterday. It’s sad that that’s where we are in this day and age, but it’s how it is. He says in Revolution, “Never make a politician grant you a favour, they will always want to control you forever.” and then 50 years later the hive mind of the Tommy Robinson fan club make actively racist attacks against anybody not white, while the government looks the other way. I wish that this was the kind of album we can look back on and be proud of how far we have come since then. But have we really come anywhere?

The genius of this is how he’s able to present outrage at injustice and calls for revolution in a way so chill that it makes white folks bob their heads.

The great thing about Marley is he found a sound that works so well that there isn’t much of a drop from the great songs to the lesser known ones.

I like Bob. I'm thinking 3.5*, which I will round to 4.

Excellent

wow, absolutely incredible. kinda blown away by how brilliant this is. nothing like i expected!

A lovely listen

75

No Woman No Cry, ‘97

A pretty good album but for me personally lacks massive highlights

its very good but not so much my style

3.4 - Yeah it was nice enough. Just find it a little boring and repetitive.

Nat the most inspiring Bob if you ask me. Fave Track: Rebel Music (3 O' Clock Road Block) 3.2/5

No Bob album is worth anything less than a four. This album is close to a five, but just doesn’t reach his best works. Still, iconic and an album I never mind listening to. 4/5

apesar de ter gostado de certa forma do álbum anterior, percebi que não me importo o suficiente com reggae pra continuar me aprofundando no gênero. nada me instiga tanto a buscar mais sobre, o tédio bateu rápido

Me sorprendió gratamente descubrir que el reggae puede ser tan inmersivo. Este álbum, a pesar de algunos altibajos, me permitió apreciar la diversidad del género. Canciones como “Them Belly Full” y “Rebel Music” son verdaderos himnos que transmiten energía contagiosa y letras poderosas. La duración del álbum es perfecta, para que puedas disfrutar de cada canción sin aburrirte. Sin embargo, la falta de originalidad y la producción algo plana pueden opacar el brillo de algunas canciones. Además, si bien "No Woman No Cry" es un clásico innegable, su inclusión en este álbum no añade nada nuevo a esta propuesta. En general, este es un álbum divertido con algunos aspectos destacados, pero podría haber sido más arriesgado y experimental.

A 42 minute funky reggae party. Ok but not amazing. 3/5

Peace and love, man.

Standout songs: Them Belly Full Natty Dread Revolution

I was actually a little surprised to see this album pop up today. I had Exodus a few weeks ago and that seems like it would pretty much cover the necessary Bob Marley. This is a decent album but surely there's nothing on this record that Exodus doesn't do better. This is maybe a deeper dig and I feel like there could have been something else added to this list in its place. The record is fine, nothing spectacular. If you like Bob Marley, you'll like it. If you're not a reggae fan, this won't change your mind. 3/5

probably my favourite Bob Marley album, great tunes with that mellow early 70s reggae vibe. Lively Up Yourself, Natty Dread and No Woman No Cry (a faster version than he played it live) particularly good.

Jeg kan faktisk rigtig godt lide Bob. Også det her album. Det grovere bare det ud af. Men jeg blev hellere ikke overrasket af det som jeg fik på det her album.

Reggea er nu meget hyggeligt

que crack bobby

7/10. Great reggae album. It was relaxing, and an overall great listen. :)

I somehow skipped that stage when you’re 17 and buy that Bob Marley Greatest Hits album, so the closest I ever got was The Fugee’s cover of “No Woman, No Cry.” I don’t think that benefited me during this listen; my ears are missing some context to fully make reggae click. That said, this album has some really great highlights that do get me interested to learn more about the genre. “No Woman, No Cry” is truly incredible, and the obvious album standout, but the next track, “Them Belly Full” is just as good. I also like “Talkin’ Blues” a lot. Besides that, there’s songs I find to be good — “So Jah Seh,” “Natty Dread,” and Revolution” — but I actively did not enough everything else. I have no way to really explain this well, but they all sounded very dated and the funk-rock vibes felt very thin. Thin production, thin genre blending, and thin songwriting. I also think Marley makes some vocalization choices that I hate, which is weird because I actually enjoy his singing voice. It’s just when he’s trying to convey stage presence, something about it feels too forced. Thankfully, Natty Dread is a short album, and even if I find it to have some obvious peaks and valleys, it’s mostly an enjoyable listen. I’d love to revisit this album once I’m more comfortable with reggae and Marley’s general discography. I can’t shake the feeling that my lack of exposure overall is making me underrate this. But on face value, it’s a little too spotty, with clear highlights but also clear low points.

I just don't understand reggae. It's fine but nothing I will ever go back to

Decent. Enjoyable vibes. I’d rate it 3.5 stars if I could.

Up until recently I was fairly indifferent to reggae. It was fine, but I didn’t get the people who obsessed over it. But after an algorithm recommended a reggae album to me (Return of the Super Ape) I’ve been exploring a little more. This is very good, which seems obvious but yeah. I do find I like the more dubby reggae with the echo and drenched in reverb, but that said there’s a reason Bob Marley is considered great. Bottom line, album good.

It’s been a long time since I’ve given Bob Marley a chance. I’ve only ever really gotten into one or two of his hits. I think that’s a shame, because I really enjoyed this all the way through. I know it’s not a hot take to say that, but there you go.

Solid!

Great listen to chill out

Ik zit weer een beetje in de meh hoek, dit is absoluut neit mijn favoriete album van Bob Marley. Alleen No Woman No cry staat hier tussen als echte 'hit', verder kabbelt het heel erg voort en is het eigenlijk een vrij saai album. Het is prima op de achtergrond en ik irriteer me zeker niet aan de muziek, maar ik kan je na afloop nauwelijks een nummer benoemen dat hier echt uitsprong. Dat is voor mij althans best wel een nadeel met dit album en veel reggae. Ik heb wel wat Bob op vinyl, maar deze hoef ik niet. Het is een te simpel album wat dat betreft voor mij. FAVO: No Woman No Cry

What can you say about Bob Marley? The crown prince of Regae. While I might prefer Exodus or Confrontation, this album has all of the heart, soul, and musicianship you can count on from Bob Marley and the Wailers. Music to dance to or to start a revolution. It works for either

It's good but fairly minimalist.

Today I listened to a lot of albums, this is one I was surprised to like a lot… definitely stood out as someone who doesn’t listen to this genre a lot. It’s been a while since I’ve listened to an album that has made me feel so calm. All the songs are very solid with great instrumentals and vocals 8/10

I mean, who doesn't like Bob Marley? This album was great, it definitely didn't sound any different than any other Bob Marley songs, but it's always a good listen.

Loved this and had forgotten many of these original versions. They have an urgency to them that I had forgotten about.

Reggae is a genre I haven't gotten too deep into. All around this album was ok. Good vibes but not much else. 3/5.

Not really my thing but not bad.

go off bob

No disrespect to Bob Marley - he's the king of reggae. But I went through my reggae phase many years ago and don't enjoy listening to it aside from the once a year visit to the Wild Hare (RIP).

Pretty average offering from the King. First album without Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer and it shows, still coming to terms with the new dynamic. This album has nothing on some of the later releases Exodus in particular. Interesting to hear a more upbeat less polished No Woman No cry than the version that is more well known

Lots of nice reggae that is enjoyable, however I'm not a massive fan of reggae and the album does feel a little long and a little boring.

Wow what a great vibe to start a summer day! Instant good mood, but admittedly there’s some Righteous anger mixed in. The contrast of lyrics and music is intriguing. Easier to rally the masses with honey than vinegar I suppose! Weak last song unfortunately. Felt like a great gymnastics routine that then didn’t stick the landing.

Good album. I'm not a fan of reggae. No woman, No cry is a classic track!

Natty Dread by Bob Marley and the Wailers is a standout album that captures Marley's signature blend of catchy rhythms and captivating messages. Released in 1974, the album includes the iconic No Woman, No Cry, which has become a timeless anthem with its emotive lyrics and memorable chorus. Tracks like Lively Up Yourself and Rebel Music combine engaging melodies with pointed social commentary, showcasing Marley's skill in addressing serious issues through accessible music. Natty Dread successfully balances traditional reggae elements with a broader appeal, making it both authentic and widely relatable. The album's infectious energy and lyrical depth ensure its lasting impact. As a pivotal work in Marley's discography, Natty Dread continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Its blend of catchy tunes and meaningful messages solidifies its place in music history. NUMBER OF BANGERS - 5 STAND OUT TRACK - Them Belly Full (But We Hungry)

He might have cult followers but I don't appreciate his music.

Nice album. Steady beat.

Er klingt noch so jung damals

2,5

Nice little background listen. Definitely not super amazing to have as the main thing playing in your headphones while you're doing something, but having it on speakers on the side while you're working, for example, is nice. Very peaceful album, and the one song that I knew was "No Woman No Cry".

Spiritualism and social justice wrapped into one with this generous, loving poet. A man of his time and music for the ages.

Loved some of this, enjoyed just about all of it - an unexpectedly good time

I thought I didn't care much for Bob Marley & The Wailers. Who knew?

I feel like I should’ve liked this more than I did. Kinda dull and repetitive, maybe I should’ve been smoking weed. 2.3

4.2 Some important and meaningful songwriting that hits a lot harder when you look into the context of why/when it was written. The music production is ok, but I like to stick to live Marley recordings when I can

Loved it. Need more Bob Marley and more reggae.

Only ever listened to the hits before. Album is great. Bob is the reggae master.

Really great album

This feels like that authentic reggae that my grandparents must have been slow dancing to in the dance hall, amazing stuff. No Woman No Cry and Revolution are standouts.

Good. But all his songs sound the same

Love it.

Good, I like it

"Last week Andy set sail for the Bahamas to sell his family’s boat, and he took his brother, but not me. I was kind of sad at first, but then I remembered that Bob Marley song. "No, woman. No cry."" (Erin, The Office) 4/5

Some great some on here

I like Bob and there's a least a couple of big tracks on here but there are better albums of his. For instance- No woman and Lively are better on the Live album?

Кажется, мне нравится Боб Марли. Очень легкая музыка, чилловая, но не тянет в сон, помогает работать, поднимает настроение. Ничего плохого про него не могу сказать вот! Конечно, не возникает желания слушать Марли в свободное время, но когда получаю его альбом я знаю, что впереди будет часик в радость.

The king of reggae Lays down relaxing, mellow Sing a long protests

Some decent songs but not much variety

Parece música de drogadicto.

It's nice for listening one or two songs, but the whole album wound up being tiring

Maybe a bit more meditative than the 2 other wailers albums we’ve had so far, but otherwise pretty similar

bob marley's voice is incredible loving the bass/keyboard instrumentals through the album so far Lively Up Yourself - 4/5 No Woman No Cry - 5/5 Them Belly Full - 4.5/5 Rebel Music - 3.5/5 So Jah S'eh - 4/5 Natty Dread - 4.5/5 Bend Down Low - 4.5/5 Talkin' Blues - 4/5 Revolution Am-A-Do

I love Bob Marley and this album was fantastic.

I’m no reggae head, so lots of this sounded quite similar. No Woman, No Cry is enough to transform me into a reggae head though.

4/10, 40%

Really really good… don’t think it’s on the level of exodus or burnin’ for me but some excellent songs

Always great a bit of a different sound than I expected!

As with a lot of protest era music, there is a lot that resonates with the world today.

Reggae isn't my favorite genre but I do enjoy Bob Marley. This isn't one of my favorite albums from him though. Half the songs didn't really put off the island vibes that I've come to expect from a Marley song and instead are more bluesy. I think some of his later work is a lot more essential.

Sounds like exactly what I expected to hear. The musicality is great, but each track is very similar, and so it all kind of mushes together for me. It's vibey.

No Woman No Cry Them Belly Full (But We Hungry) Rebel Music (3 O'Clock Roadblock) Natty Dread

Willing to bet that you put this on anywhere in the world and people would start grooving. Bob remains everlasting and universally amazing.

Yep, it's a Bob Marley record. Sounds like all the other Bob Marley records.

Solid and easy to listen to.

No Woman, No Cry, and not much more here

Solid

great album fun to sing along to

Some wonderful songs, many well known from an album that's 50 years old

hmmm

Fuego

Initially benefits from some good 70s production , but after the first 4 or 5 tracks it reverts to a homogenous traditional reggae sound.

it's fine, it's fun but it's not his best work in my opinion. Lively up Yourself and No Woman No Cry will forever be iconic though! He breathes love and joy through his music

Honestly, every song was great. I love Bob Marley, but listening to all tracks of this album have helped me appreciate it more.

So enjoyable and better than I though musically. A LOT of today's stuff was recognizable in this 1974 gem. Samples, riffs, styles. Bob Marley rules.

Finding it tough to compare this to Exodus. Giving Exodus a four has been one of my great consternations of this experience. I like this album but it's in more of a "marvel at the musicianship" kind of way. The playing and grooves are very solid, but the song writing is maybe just less catchy and harder to latch on to at first. Even after another listen I'm going in with a 4.

Pleasant but boring after a few songs

OK, needs a second listen as of felt repetitive

nice!

It’s okay, just ain’t my speeds.

Another solid album. I think I enjoyed this one more than the other of theirs that I listened to.

Perfect for cycling in summer under the trees of the Városligeti fasor. Not my taste though.

I thought this album was kind of serious. Not bad

Wasn’t particularly bad. Classic Marley. I enjoyed it, but I did not find much really memorable parts. I’d listen to this anytime though.

Can't dispute the musical talent and significance, but not quite my taste.

Good vibes, did not listen to lyrics very closely

Nice early Marley. Was surprised by the different version of Woman No Cry, not what it’s become known as. Lively Up Your Life was a good mantra song.

I understand why people would like it, but the production was just a little too underwhelming for me.

5/10

One of the Most amazing Marley album

Watching the biopic earlier this year helped me understand the thought process while composing their songs (Wailersl contributed equally)

Obviously good music, just not my thing

This is good stuff

Great groove and arrangements. Listening to this is probably where I've felt closest to understanding the wide love for Bob Marley. I can connect to some other production and arrangement touchstones from its era that I love from artists like Bob Dylan, and I can hear the effect Marley had on Eric Clapton.

There's definitely better Bob albums.

One more to tick off the list. Nothing too interesting but still a good listen.

Genius - no other word for it

The mans a legend, but his music is not for me.

I'm not fan of raggae, i can only listen to so much. Not bad, but after 3 songs it get boring...

Always love me some Bob Marley, even though I don't think this is his best record. I much prefer the live version of 'No Woman No Cry' to this one. The drum machine or whatever the beat thing is is making it feel very amateurish and like a kids version. Couldn't really single out any specifically strong songs, but they were all ok still.

Honestly most reggae albums kind of sound the same to me and this one was much the same. Everything melded together in to something chill but not all that interesting. I also see why all versions of "No Woman, No Cry" I have heard have been live versions as they are much better than this studio version. Maybe it's the same with the other tracks too? If so maybe a Bob Marley live album should be on this list.

I definitely love some Bob Marley & The Wailers! I don't remember listening to one of their albums in one sitting so this was a treat.

I feel bad because Bob Marley is always somebody I want to love unabashedly and I always leave underwhelmed. Perhaps he was amazing to see live. “No Woman No Cry” is great. Everything else is ok to forgettable. 2.5/5

i know reggae is an established genre and all but this is the first time im really hearing a full album in the genre. to me, it's a very pleasant to listen to mix of soul, folk, and some psychedelia with a bit of jazz. natty dread is not a titan of instrumentation but certainly is quality, with all kinds of instruments having highlights. this album is far less "One Love *peace sign*" than i expected, much more socially conscious in ways you can see rap would clearly draw from. bob marley has a wonderful ear for melody (the chorus of no woman, no cry a highlight). if i had to give an criticism, some of the organs sound very church/gospel to me in an off-putting way. the longer songs meander, which im sure is the point but its not in an interesting, exploratory manner, just looped really. not that big of a deal however. natty dread isn't something ill find myself giving repeat listens to but im certainly glad to have heard it.

Eh. It was fine.

Really good reggae album, which I'd not heard before. Worth listening to if you're only familiar with his greatest hits. The stand out song is No Woman, No Cry. 4/5

Reggae music is perfect for packing to go to Lisbon. 7/10

A powerful and soulful album that showcases Bob's unique blend of reggae rhythms and heartfelt lyrics. The tracks are infused with Marley's energy and poignant social commentary, making it a timeless classic. Its depth and artistry shine.

Bueno

I've had copies of this since first issue. Side one is as near perfect an album side as I can remember hearing.

immaculate vibes

Nettes Album

The best solo Bob Marley album (after Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh left). Most of the songs are protest songs about politics and the rastafari believe. And of course it contains the love song No Woman No Cry.

Nice

Bob Marley is quality although I’m not at all into reggae. Fave Track: Revolution Rating: 4

A typically solid album from Marley, since Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh had departed by this one. A bit middling though, maybe lacks the spitirt of 'Catch a fire' but this is Bob maturing into singer-song writer superstardom that was to follow.

Bob Marley hefur verið í sókn á ný, örugglega út af nýju heimildarmyndinni um hann. Það er samt ekki hægt annað en að fíla þessa tónlist. Þessi plata fer aftur á fóninn það er alveg bókað ásamt öðrum plötum með Marley.

Cómo me aburre... Se salva No Woman No Cry y Lively Up Yourself

Honestly just a bland reggae record considering the bar set by Bob Marley himself on other much better records. This was much mire true considering the major hit on the album "No Woman No Cry" wasn't the live version.

I'm sure this is great reggae, but reggae just isn't my thing. I find it boring, repetitive and going nowhere. I don't really like the way Bob Marley sings either.

Its not the best version of Marley's best song. That is on the live album. And the remainder is pretty standard reggae fare as far as I can see.

A reggae masterpiece

Great album. “No Woman No Cry” is a certified great song. I enjoyed the album and respond well to reggae. I’ll dig in some more on this one as a re-listen. ****

I've gone in to bat for reggae in the past, but I quite liked this. While there are many albums that are already my go-to choices for chill background noise when I'm crafting or cooking or whatever and will probably never go hunting for reggae in the future, I didn't hate this experience.

not my fav bob, but nice to listen to his early stuff. obviously great beats and a summer vibe, but some bland stuff in here

obviously a really great album. just not the biggest fan of reggae

An enjoyable listen, though not my favorite Marley album.

Lively Up Yourself No Woman, No Cry Them Belly Full (But We Hungry) Talkin' Blues Revolution

Solid album of iconic reggae.

Objectively great album. I’ll pull it out for a listen for a day at the beach

I had never listened to reggae before, and so wasn’t really sure what to expect. This album was pure groove: the lyrics and Bob Marley’s voice of course added to the effect, but what struck me most was the instrumentation. The album was sonically coherent, but you get these flairs in each song that change the vibe: is it more bluesy, more rock? Very engaging, and a great introduction to a new genre!

Great album, funny hearing Bob Marley after so many other reggae artists trying to sound like the genuine article.

Not as good as Exodus. If I needed a lot of reggae, I'd start with Exodus then move into this, but on it's own it's not exceptional.

B+ Lively Up Yourself 3 No Woman No Cry 4 Them Belly Full (But We Hungry) 4 Rebel Music (3 O'Clock Roadblock) 4 So Jah Say 4 Natty Dread 4 Bend Down Low 3 Talkin' Blues 3 Revolution 5 This album made me think of one of Declan's seven evil ex-girlfriends, but it was really good nonetheless. Really surprised me, didn't expect to give this a 4 at all.

Belly full but we hungry. Nice mouth harpin like

Rebel music kicked in just as I was glimpsing the city skyline on Blackfriars Bridge. Just as Bob would’ve wanted it. All this is to say that this may have been a little lost on me considering. Felt similar to Station to Station, carried by the vibes that I may or may not be fully sold on.

I wonder if listening to this 10 spliffs into my day has anything to do with how much I loved this album

Just vibes.

This was good, but they have better albums. 3.0/5.0: Good

I think I prefer exodus to this one, but still a phenomenal album. No woman no cry is one of very few tracks where I prefer the live to the studio version.

Back to back Bob Marley - maybe if I had gotten this album a bit more isolated I would’ve vibed with it a bit more… not a bad album - but I enjoyed Exodus more. Exodus had more hits to surround the other songs with.

Obviously everyone knows who Bob Marley is, but this wasthe first time I've listened to something other than Don't Worry or No Woman, No Cry. And it was awesome! Standouts to me are Them Belly Full and Rebel Music. Both are pretty rebelious but with an surprising amount of musicality. Really enjoyed this.

4.25

I always love to hear some bob marely, and No Woman No Cry is an absolutely fantastic song.

Optimistic. Thank you for the kind words, Bob.

I'm allergic to Reggae, particularly the melodic stuff that uni tossers 'love' as they get baked

4.5

i prefer this over exodus tbh

Didn’t particularly like this. Kinda droned on, which is pretty familiar to the last BM album.

Pleasantly jammy

An enjoyable reggae experience

Like the last Marley album, I don’t feel qualified to tell if this is good reggae or not which limits its ceiling. That being said I enjoyed the music and knew the one song so that’s something

Hard to be in a bad mood with this playing, also hard not to copy the accent after listening. RUUUHHIGHT by the beach BOOOOiiiiiiii

This is one of those bands where if you're lucky enough to see video of them playing, the inputs don't seem to match the outputs. It's hard to understand the relationship between the movements of the musicians and the sounds coming out of the speakers. Funky as shit. A band firing on all gears, and then some. This album has some sick tunes, too. I don't know where to start with them. This is like being asked to review the Bible or something. Required listening.

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.

Overall an easy listen. Reggae has a bit of a homogenous sound - like coffee and red wine tastes. I love melody and rhythm when it comes to appreciating music, as opposed to lyrical content. Fairly solid album overall with some familiar hits.

Nice easy listening. Classic.

The king of reggae.

regae!

Coooool. Lively Up Yourself and listen to some Rebel Music. What a voice. Didn't love every track (the backing vocals were a bit distracting) but enjoyed the vibe. And what an excellent title for an album! 😎

Love them but somehow this doesn't really grab me. Brilliant recording though, sounds so good 50 years on. The first 3 tracks are great but as a complete album 'Catch A Fire' is still my favourite.

No Woman No Cry 🥲

Bob Marley on our fourth day, what a treat! Enjoyable listen the whole way through. Not as catchy as some of his other albums though, and the slower live version of ‘No Woman No Cry’ is far better than studio in my opinion. Jah forgive me.

Surprising underdog. Good background music. Lots of hits.

Nit da größte Reggae fan aber gutes Album

Its ok.

Solid stuff, even if there's a few filler tracks

Liked it! Would revist

It sounded nice.

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

Classic chill album

Bob Marley is always easy listening. Now understanding the context for his life better than I did when I discovered him in college I realize how great his message was. I have to admit that I am used to hearing his Legend hits aBlum and live versions so the original tracks are different. Key tracks are Revolution and No Woman. He is the legend!

Bob Marley is great! But this album is just okay. That's not "No Woman No Cry"! So weird to hear the recorded version after hearing the Legend version a million times. Does this prove the live version is superior or have I just heard the live version so many times that any other version would sound weird? Still kinda shocking to hear the version on this album. Lively Up Yourself is great! But the rest of the album kinda blended together for me. Maybe I'm just spoiled from Legend and Natural Mystic being greatest hits collections. Shrug.

Not really my thing

Almost makes me want to like reggae.

Dig it. Love Bob, never sat down and fully listened to this one.

first listen. it wasnt that bad but i simply do not enjoy reggae music like at all

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

it's reggae, what did i expect

Oh shit, I just heard that Kid Rock is coming... At least we have this gem. Seriously a solid album throughout. The hits are front loaded, but the vibe carries all the way through. Love this.

Ei ärsytä mua 40 minuutissa, mikä on reggaelle harvinaista! On hyviä biisejä, tosin b-puolella katoaa mun mielenkiinto. Muusikoiden onneksi ei, nekin on taiten tehtyjä biisejä eikä löysiä.

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.

You know, I'm kind of surprised it took this while to get a reggae album. I got a ska album pretty early on, but that's not really the same thing, nor is it what I think of when reggae comes to my mind. If there's one artist that I think of when I hear the word "reggae," it would have to be Bob Marley. Because who else would I possibly think of? He was basically "The Reggae Guy" and for good reason. This album's pretty good. It makes me feel nice. The sound is pleasant to listen to while still having some depth to it. The singing feels very authentic and true to his culture. The lyrics are thoughtful and adds to this album's feel-good nature. Obviously, "No Woman, No Cry" is the best song on this album, though the other ones aren't bad. Overall, this is a solid album that serves as a good representation of a genre that I respect, but don't really feel all too passionate about myself. High 3/5.

I mean, it doesn't get much better than a seminal BMW album. Still relevant. Still fresh. Still important.

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.

I like Bob Marley’s vibe. It’s relaxing and chill. It makes me wish I were hanging out at a park or the beach on a summer day. No Woman, No Cry is a song I’ve heard a thousand times. I don’t particularly like the sped up pace here. I’m used to a slower tempo and the song feels rushed. Even though The Wailers had moved on, this album keeps the good vibes going.

Chill

Some great stuff on this. As a unit it's not the most dynamic album. I liked this more than the other Bob Marley I've listened to on this journey, but not that much more. Couldn't get all the way to 4 stars, but I did consider it.

Enjoyed the first few tracks.