Exodus

So I’ve always found reggae kind of boring, not all that interesting, but… wow I was wrong. I get why all my friends were super into this. Songs like So Much Things To Say and The Heathen are so interesting and have a lot going on. The guitars are basically kind of part of the percussion. The group vocals sound heavenly, spiritual. Inspired, pointed lyrics, loved the messaging. Just a really brilliant album that I can’t believe I didn’t get to earlier

It is easy to pluck out all the hits, but this album as intended, as a whole, is a mood masterpiece. When I listen in its entirety, I am on a spiritual journey with Marley, and all the many sojourners who have left a world of oppression and trekked towards freedom. Exodus is a mesmerizing record that saves us with positivity and hopeful imagery. Whether hiking in the snow, dancing on the beach, or walking through the desert searching for home, Exodus uplifts, relaxes, and affirms. No problem, mon.

“Exodus” by Bob Marley and the Wailers (1977) I’ve never heard this album, and I’m only marginally familiar with Bob Marley’s more popular work. Musically, the song and sound on this album are very good. Instrumentals are well arranged and well recorded. The basic groove is somewhat repetitive, but very magnetic. Lead vocals by Marley are well executed, but lacking variety. Good, tight backing vocals. No distracting flaws. The music is a suitable vehicle for the message of each of these songs, which is the main point of this album. Bass and drums predominate, characterized by heavy runs and clean fills. with rhythm guitar steadily emphasizing the backbeat. Classic reggae. Good lead guitar arranging and execution, with heavy use of wah and phase shift. Horns and piano performed with precision and subtlety. Now, to the message. From the beginning (“Natural Mystic”—and please note that it’s not “Supernatural Mystic”!), the lyrics draw us into the metaphysical realm, evoking images from the Apocalypse of St. John and Gnostic mysticism. Moving on to a reflection (in “So Much Things to Say”) on the examples of Jesus Christ, Marcus Garvey, and Paul Bogle, Marley explicitly challenges hearers to take the message of these heroes to heart. The appeal utilizes a carefully selected series of biblical themes, focusing on one facet of the Black Liberation Theology movement—revolution. The title track, “Exodus” coveys the main theme of Black Liberation Theology, which is a cry for deliverance from the oppression of the dominant (White, colonialist, capitalist) culture. It is a lyrical theme that is in tune with the political/economic philosophy of Jamaican-born economist Donald J. Harris (father of Kamala Harris, who was 13 years old when this album was released. I can’t imagine she wasn’t influenced by it). This movement of deliverance emphasizes the revolutionary stance on the part ‘the people’, meaning those in the oppressed class. They are described in the lyrics as “Jah people”, meaning people of Yahweh (or the LORD as most English translations render it in the Bible). Like most popular expressions of liberation theology, its Marxist roots are disguised. And what is lacking in this overtly political lyric is an honest acknowledgement that Black Liberation Theology is quite distinct from and even opposed to the historical meaning of the symbolism it appropriates. This lack of candor, whether intentional (deceptive) or unintentional (naive), is a serious artistic flaw, robbing the lyric of much of its power. In “Guiltiness”, Marley declaims to the oppressed the guilt of the oppressor. The poetry is eloquent enough, but lacking nuance. The oppressors are spoken of in the third person (“they”) rather than the second person (“you”), a departure from the prophetic mode. Again, Marley misses an opportunity to create a strong and profound poetic vision. If “Jammin’” were simply a jam, it would be fun. But it turns into inflammatory discourse, inciting revolutionary compulsion. “Waiting in Vain” and “Turn Your Lights Down Low” are a welcome relief from the disordered politics of this album, expressing the patient endurance of a lover who’s willing to wait for fulfillment, if only he can be assured of ultimate success. It’s beautiful (and not entirely unconnected with the politics of the first six tracks). “Three Little Birds” is a paean to optimism. Nice. With “One/People Get Ready”, we’re back to politics, bringing together the revolutionary themes of tracks 1-6 with the romantic themes of tracks 7-9, making for an extraordinarily well crafted album as a whole. A lot of artistic excellence here. This album is formally evangelical, assembled in a sermonic fashion. It proclaims a putatively saving faith that is rooted in the western theological tradition. But it is marred by its errant selectivity. In sum, Bob Marley’s album “Exodus” is a beautiful vehicle that is unfortunately headed in the wrong direction—back to Egypt (Numbers 14:4). And that is a poverty. 3/5

Oh Bobby, Bobby, Bobby boy!!! This makes my dick so hard that I could probably impregnate you through this screen. The Wailers are named after your mum.

Honestly, this listener is not into reggae. "Natural Mystic" however, was a great reset of one's skepticism and built great anticipation for the remainder of this album. Feel good lyrics, religiously inspired, and unapologetically non-aggressive in message and tone will always serve as a brilliant contrast to the reality of humanity. However, that is where this album cheerfully stops while retaining some profundity, and that is at conflict. Love, peace, acceptance are often things that are the result of conflict that resolves through argument, and sometimes even fighting. This album represents the gentle and kind side of fighting, which is letting love and peace be the motivators for a unified struggle instead of through disagreement and animosity. Musically, reggae had always seemed like a very set in its ways approach to arrangement/composition, but where Bob Marley managed to elevate the genre is by using those familiar rhythms to be innovative and different without the stigma of 'not' being reggae. It is hard to explain, but there is reggae and then there is reggae, and Marley's is the latter. Perhaps this is where his talent remains unrivaled and his legacy intact.

Really happy to have the opportunity to listen to a full record. Because Bob Marley has existed mostly as a "playlist" or "greatest hits" guy. Turns out, all of his songs are enjoyable and on this cool fall morning, I appreciate the black vibes. We often reach for Bob Marley when driving to a summer vacation/beach spot. Will definitely reach for this one next time that happens. Come for the rhythm, stay for that wondering piccolo snare and the surprisingly great noodley lead guitar.

I feel like I get a contact high just from listening to this album.

I an not a fan of Reggae I just am not. This however is so SO good. It features iconic rhythms and tunes and really puts you in a fantastic headspace. Excellent album.

Timeless. Touching. Needed in 2021. I never knew all his greatest hits were on this one album. Production is great, his band is legendary, and this album will be listened to for decades to come.

I absolutely loved it! These are songs that I’ve heard forever on the radio and in passing. And because Marley is such a staple in society it can be easy to dismiss Exodus as being an album you’re already familiar with, but to do so would be a huge mistake. There’s a heart and a beauty to this album. This is human music for the soul!

I don't like reggae. It currently sits as my lowest rated genre here. This was my most positive experience with the genre. I'm not nuts about it, but it was pretty enjoyable. I'd give it a 3.5, bumping to a 4 because it's pretty obvious even to a non-fan like me that this is a very well made album that is important to reggae.

Yeah. This speaks for itself. Yep. Fucking Bob Marley man. The feeling that Exodus injects into your veins is absolutely irreplaceable. The wailers live and breathe reggae, truly professionals in this art. There is no need to try to explain to someone why reggae is addicting when you can just play them some Bob. If you aren't high enough just hearing these songs, please get stoned and listen again. You will understand this album in the way it is meant to be felt. Insane that with how amazing this album is, there are others of his in contention for the best. Personal Favorites: Natural Mystic, Guiltiness, Jamming, Waiting in Vain, Three Little Birds, One Love / People Get Ready - Jamming, Waiting in Vain, Three Little Birds, and One Love are 4 of my all-time favorite songs EVER

The reggae album. The Bob Marley album. It's short at less than 40 minutes, and contains his biggest hits that most people can recognize, of any generation. If you want to introduce someone to reggae, I'd argue this as a better introduction than his compilation, since this record can get the whole message across as a collective piece. Accessible and consistent, it's bright and relaxing, suitable for casual and active listening. The production is incredible, with audience members able to pick out each instrument fulfilling their roles. "Natural Instinct" shows what reggae is about, with the bass and drums leading with a loud constant beat maintaining a repetitive groove that drives the music. The lead guitar and horns in the background interject but are much quieter in comparison, yet just as clear. They don't compete with each other, and since the bass and drums are constant, they don't compete with them either, so you can follow the horns and guitar as if they're in charge, constituting the personality of the song. Having these contrasts in volume and the filters (like the echo effect) add a third dimension to the music, something very rare for its time that isn't prog. With "So Much Things to Say", the audience moves its attention to Marley's vocal performance, lyrics, and the back vocals. Now that the foundation of the music is established, we carry on with a catchy pop song with a traditional chorus and verse structure, highlighting Marley's passion and vocal capabilities, and thus making abundantly clear the political discourse. This smoothly transitions to the darker "Guiltiness" which stresses horns, synths, and dramatic vocal styles to add a mystic atmosphere and sense of urgency. "The Heathen" continues this theme with strong guitar riffs and synths that storm the background. With the simple and repetitive lyrics and beat, the emphasis is more on the environment it creates. This cultivates to the intensity of the epic "Exodus", which goes on for 8 minutes. It's fast and busy with a serious vibe that invites the audience to chant along. The story is told in the first few minutes before the rest of the song goes off in all sorts of interesting strong directions. Great ending, I'm always a fan of that delay effect. The second half contains all his greatest hits. It's simple, relaxing, bright, and optimistic with lush instrumentation and Marley's enthusiastic vocals, again with many moments to invite audience members to sing and groove along. Only song I don't like is "Turn Your Lights Down Low" cause it sounds like generic adult contemporary pop, too slow and boring. But the rest consist of great simple feel-good pop songs of Marley at his greatest. I don't feel to go into detail because they're just that simple and well-known. I can't really complain.

The ultimate Bob Marley album. Ok, I might have said that about more than one of his albums. He's pretty good you know! Standouts: Exodus, Waiting in Vain, Three Little Birds, Jammin', One Love, People Get Ready. Three Little Birds has been "my song" for as long as I can remember. I play it whenever I am feeling in a pinch. I always remember what Bob says, "Don't Worry - bout a thing - Every little thing will be alright". And it always is. 4.5/5

Exodus, Three Little Birds, and One Love are iconic tracks that sort of define the genre for people who have no knowledge of reggae. I don’t have much experience with reggae but I instantly recognized those tracks from appearances in other media. I really enjoyed the vibe, I hate the stereotypical perception of reggae as weed music, it has something to say.

This is possibly the greatest reggae album of all time. Natural Mystic’s opening bars transport you away and the rest is just magical from then on.

Looking at the track list, I’m very familiar with a fair few songs on this album, and I love each one of them. I don’t think I’ve listened to the album in full before, so it says a lot that I’ve come across so many of the songs organically. I’m really excited to listen to this today. I love Bob. Songs I already knew: Exodus, Jamming, Waiting In Vain, Turn Your Lights Down Low, Three Little Birds, One Love Favourites: Jamming, Turn Your Lights Down Low, Three Little Birds, One Love There is honestly so much on this album I love that it’s hard to know what to say. The overall laid back vibe of it all, the positivity and themes of love, the subdued yet fantastic bass lines, it has it all. Although there were songs that I didn’t recognise, I found that they were all in par with the ones I did know. The only critique I can really say is that if reggae just doesn’t click with you then you probably won’t enjoy this, but I personally found this to be pretty much perfect.

Awesome! The second half of the album is like a greatest hits compilation

Fantastic album and so fitting to get on 4/20!

Great album with some really incredible songs on it.

A classic! 5/5. Great music to dance to, feels like you’re in the carribesn on a warm beach with a drink hanging out with friends. Love bob marley

Obvious five. When the deeper cuts are better than some monumentally famous songs, you know the album is good

just an excellent album. some great hits and some songs i didn’t know about, and everything was amazing.

Brilliant, beautiful album. Spiritual without being preachy. Wonderful performances and production.

Bob Marley is amazing. Some of his best songs are on this album. Each song is an a great listen. Shortly after his assassination attempt, he goes to London and records this album. A mixture of politics and love.

I was expecting this album to be one where I would be looking for more variety, like "ugh, not another reggae beat! Change it up!" I was pleasantly surprised how much variety the album had and I liked it much more than I expected I would. What a great ending - Three Little Birds and One Love/People Get Ready were both fantastic. I think I'm going to listen to Three Little Birds every morning to get in a good mood for the work day ("Don't worry...about a thing...cause every little thing...is gonna be alright"). It's interesting to note how positive and hopeful the last few tracks are considering how dark and political many of the earlier tracks are (like "Guiltiness" and "The Heathen." "So Much Things to Say" also has dark lyrics, but the music is so upbeat...guess that's reggae for you). Very clear why this album is on the list. I'm going to call it a 4.5 rounded up to a 5.

I mean, can this get anything short of 5 stars? Marley is transcendent, and this album is no exception. This album gets 5 stars off of Jamming alone, and that's before you get to 3 Little Birds. I listened to it straight through and then just listened to Marley all day.

Definitely some 5/5 songs on here, and I do want to return to this. Nice and mellow Saturday listening. 🤙

Though I am more of a fan of his earlier work, especially his recordings with Lee Perry, Marley's music is consistently good throughout his entire career. The production on this album has some real nice touches and flourishes throughout that separate it from more standard reggae recorded in Jamaica at the time. Such a clean sound. Some real classics here. Bob Marley always feels so deeply genuine and authentic no matter the subject matter. So committed to every song. Can't even imagine how captivating and electric it must have been to see him perform live.

Exodus was recorded at a time when Bob Marley was learning about the unexpected costs of international stardom, but it hadn't yet sapped his creative strengths, and this is one of the finest albums in his stellar catalog.

This is one of those records that’s just burned into American subconscious for anyone in my generation, these are lullabies. Legends from an,,ancient time”. Two Little Birds >>> just about everything

How does Bob Marley like his donuts? With jam in. That's the best thing I know about reggae. I can't stand this genre. I'm sure someone finds this album important, slow dirges over the same rhythm, but I don't want to meet them. Let's face it they're either 13 year old vicar's kid or some twat on a gap year. Best Tracks: Jamming; Three Little Birds; One Love/People Get Ready

Oh dear. I lasted 3 songs.

The fade-in on Natural Mystic is one of my very favorite album beginnings. Amazing band in top form playing some classics and near classics. Side one is in the streets and side two is between the sheets.

Beautiful, classic, perfect Sunday afternoon cozy music. Also, I once heard someone misquote Exodus as "Taxibus! / Movement of the people!"

How does Bob Marley like his donuts… From the first fade in it provokes an emotion that’s hard to describe, musically and when you listen deeper into the lyrics. It just feels timeless. you could only pin turn your lights down low as an 70s/80s song. Truth is probably 4.5 stars, there’s a couple of slight filler tracks, but very happy to round up!

I know I haven’t commented on an album in quite a while. A family thing is going on and I am having a lot of emotions. I was very worried and jumping to the worst conclusions. Once I listened to this album, all of that washes away. I’ve learned a lot from bob marleys music and this album, like live in the moment, love conquers all and of course be positive in attitude and outlook.

One of the best reggae albums from, probably, the best reggae artist there ever was. I’ve never met a single person who didn’t enjoy Bob Marley. I don’t really think it’s possible to hate the music. The lyrics are insanely profound and the instrumentation is fantastic. Every song on this album slaps. They don’t all slap the same, but they slap. 5/5

Este disco es un clásico de la música, es imposible que nunca hayas escuchado alguna de las canciones de bob marley dentro de este proyecto. La realidad es que se toman las bases del reggae típico y se pasa a esta especie de reggae universal y más simple en los ritmos que se cantan, todo es más melódico y las letras abusan de la repetición por lo general para bien. No lo hacen por falta de contenido, sino por la necesidad de expresión de mensaje. La protesta social está, el ritmo fiel está, las letras están, las voces solo hacen que te den ganas de mover al cabeza 28945 veces y las vibras son hermosas durante todo el proyecto. Es el magnum opus de marley, no hay dudas, todos los temas suenan más que bien y los hits te hacen saltar de la silla. Turn Your Lights Down es el único tema que baja un poco el ritmo y la consistencia de este discazo, pero tapoco sale mucho del aura de lo que venía siendo, por eso le poongo un 9/10 a esta obra maestra.

Highlights: Natural Mystic, Guiltiness, Waiting In Vain, Turn Your Lights Down Low. My initial interpretation of reggae was “protest songs with backing singers, groovy bass and subtle percussion”. Today I learned that it is, and also more than that. Albums like “Exodus” weave themes of celebrating progress, unity, love, socio-political commentary, understanding one’s existence, repatriation, optimism, “downpression” (a variant of oppression) and Rastafari life. Overall: 8/10

Bob Marley was nothing short of a beautiful human being, with a beautiful soul. Even beyond the music, his impact on the world through his actions and words made him one of the brightest figures of peace and love, which is what he always spoke for. He was a positive force of nature. And especially with this album, those feelings are portrayed perfectly. This album wraps itself around you like a warm hug. It really is the most essential reggae album. If you were going to pick one to be the only reggae album you ever listen to, it should be this. Such a soothing, pleasant, and relaxing listening experience. It's easy to just get lost in the music the band is playing. I would say personally I enjoy the B-side more, as I think it is more consistent and has the best songs. It has the three big hits on it, which are all absolutely amazing tracks, that on their own portray every good quality of the music on this record. Rating: 7/10

I quite enjoyed this, amazingly, a bit more varied and interesting (darker?) than the standard reggae cliches. Good background music for a late night data analysis, even listened to it three times. You're alright, Bob

I'm not a huge fan of Bob Marley but I will willingly admit that he played a crucial role in putting reggae at the forefront of popular music. It's well done and all, it just does nothing for me.

The album that broke Marley to the masses. While I prefer the earlier, skankier shit it's an undeniable classic.

I'm not a huge Bob Marley fan. I'll happily give his records a spin occasionally, but my humble opinion is that he is far from the greatest reggae artist. He was the most accessible and commercially successful, which is a very different thing. This one is one of the better albums in his discography, and I don't mind the bluesy/rockish elements. But it's fairly lightweight compared to a million other 1976-78 reggae albums, including solo records by his former Wailers (who I think had been replaced with session musicians on this record?). I don't know how many of these are on the 1001 list, but I would definitely rather recommend albums from the same period by Yabby You, Augustus Pablo, Bunny Wailer, Max Romeo, Junior Murvin, and others. When you consider that a masterpiece like The Congos - Heart of the Congos was released in the same year, it basically blows Marley out of the water, in my humble opinion. Another example of an album that made the 1001 for being famous/successful rather than being on par with countless superior albums that didn't make the cut. 2.5 for this.

I am not high enough for this. I used to listen to this a lot as teenager...but somehow gets boring after a few songs. I still think that Bob Marley was an iconic artist and a legend...despite the fact that I no longer enjoy this music...

There are very few truely great albums. This is one of them.

One of my favorite Bob Marley albums. I have a copy and listen to it often. My significant other and I went to Jamaica to his birthplace at Nine Mile, it's safe to say that I am a big fan. Can't recommend this album enough, the beats and lyrics are perfect. It has a super chill vibe while still delivering a message. Got me interested in Reggae music.

I’ve never been super into Bob Marley. I, like everyone in the world, owned Legend on CD at one point in my life, but it didn’t get a ton of play. Recently though, Redemption Song (not on this album, but my favorite of his so far) and Three Little Birds have been in my rotation when I need Alexa to play a song or two while I do dishes or something. Anyway, I’m not sure I can’t not give this a 5. It’s really good top to bottom, and certainly my vibe. I’m NOT super into Bob Marley now, though.

Amazing record

Arguably the greatest and most important Reggae album ever released

Sounded great. I've listened to the best of's and listening to this album as intended was eye opening.

Know this album quite well having bought it many years ago. I've always enjoyed the music of Bob Marley as it brings back memories of hearing this music booming out of local house in 1970s/80s South Liverpool

peak

Kittinek

This has 'the songs' on it which helps, but generally a lovely time was had by all listening to this. Low 5.

Dis a di bes Reggae albom a aal taim fi a riizn. BOMBOCLAAAAT!!!!!!!

Easily one of my faves of all time

Marvelous!

Just that little drum roll at the beginning of the songs is already worthy of 5 stars. Imagine the rest!

God only knows why I've held off on listening to Bob Marley until now. That was so immediately lovely the whole way through. Like a buttery croissant. The production is stunning. The Wailers sound perfect. Marley is a great frontman, obviously. Much of what he's singing rings true. Listening to this left me feeling soothed and comfortable. What more could you ask for?

No notes. Favorite tracks: Waiting In Vain Jamming

Ons laatste album van Bob Marley. En het beste album wat mij betreft. We krijgen de typische Marley reggae, maar het is meer dan dat. Bob stopt er van allerlei elementen in van andere muziekstijlen, ook al blijft het in de basis reggae. Daardoor wordt de muziek veel rijker en de liedjes blijven ijzersterk. Niet voor niets werden voor het postume compilatiealbum Legend de meeste nummers van dit album gekozen. Wat ook fijn is, is dat het album begint met een bekend nummer en eindigt met een reeks aan bekende nummers. En eigenlijk staan er geen slechte nummers op dit album, wat altijd heel knap is. Alleen een beetje lullig voor Feyenoord fans, dat ze de dag na de gewonnen klassieker nu het Ajax lied moeten aanhoren.

I like everything by Bob Marley. Every time I listen a full record is like a time vortex, where I don't know if I've been listening to it for 5 or 50 minutes. But I think that's part of the experience, so I'm rating this with 5 stars.

would give 10 stars if I could. I am bias growing up listening to this music but would give 5 stars to every song on this album

Great songs/performances with more than a few classics.

Indoktrinerad sedan barnsben av en god vän.

Just wonderful. Pretty perfect.

Ja det är svårt att inte ge denna en femma. Stor del är ju nostalgi. Blev ju mycket Bob när man var liten. Men det är rent objektivt rigkit skön musik!

En av de mer solklara femmorna på den här listan. Legendarisk och fulländad.

Can’t understand less than 4 stars. Perfect a reggae album.

Album 665 of 1001 Bob Marley & The Wailers - Exodus (1977) Rating : 5 / 5 Great album. Some iconic tracks. Madison Avenue sure loves a couple of them. Bringing reggae to the masses.

Owned and played regularly ever since it was released.

Bob had the magic. Still reaching down through the generations.

Oh, guess I'm high now

Bob Marley really one of one. Nobody made Reggae this huge and accessible. Its filled with so may of his arguably biggest and best songs! Shoutout to the Wailers too of course. 5*

This must be the best reggae album ever. Vibrant and warm and soulful. 4.6

Bob Marley & The Wailers records exist in their own universe. Incredibly easy to listen to and at the same time incredibly powerful and hard hitting. A perfection of the sound and genre he helped to cultivate, with some more mellow/smoother tracks as the heavy hitters. A timeless classic, a staple of reggae. Best Tracks: - Natural Mystic - Exodus - Three Little Birds Worst Tracks: N/A Rating: 9/10

Lots of bangers on here like Exodus, Jamming, Three Little Birds and One Love.

I was surprised by this one. This album has enough variety to keep me engaged and has some nice compositions. The lyrics weren't too preachy and I came away with an appreciation of reggae I never had before

Songs flow so well into each other, album is definitely best listened in order. First 3 songs are classic reggae. Synth guitar on "The Heathen" is wild but good, then flows directly into the funk of "Exodus". "Jamming" needs no discussion it's famous for a reason, but "Exodus" into "Jamming" into "Waiting in Vain" is a fantastic 3 song suite. Then "Turn Your Lights Down Low" into "Three Little Birds" and "One Love/People Get Ready". Honestly the last 6 songs of this album are legendary. This is bad for the start of my "I'm gonna be harsh rating albums" journey but I can't give this anything less than a 5/5.

magical and fun. great hearing the whole album through

One of the best of all time. First half is cool ass reggae. Second half is just incredible. What a run of songs! Its almost a Best of Reggae mini album. Waiting In Vain is in my personal top ten (maybe 5) songs of all time. 5 stars, an absolute pleasure to listen to this.

The groove is irresistible and the message is inspirational no matter how many times I hear it.

Day353 - i came for the three hits and really liked the rest of them

His best record

GOD

Todo reggae hecho después de esto es una cagada

9/10

This started as a two then became a 3 then after another listen a 4 and finally I’m going with a 5. Fuck it.

Bob is a legend and his music is timeless

One song after another on the album is fantastic. First time I listened to this album in its entirety and I couldn’t have enjoyed it more. Beautiful, thought provoking, and filled with blissful memories (2013 Red Sox).

Classic after classic 5/5

A feel good, timeless album. One of the greats in my book.

THE BEST Bob Marley album, especially title track onwards 5/5

Classic.

Some of his best like Three Little Birds

Det ultimative reggae album ever

It was a good album, liked the songs on it.

This isn't an album, it's a party.