Exodus by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Exodus

Bob Marley & The Wailers

3.94
Rating
23727
Votes
1
1%
2
5%
3
23%
4
38%
5
32%
Distribution

Album Summary

Exodus is a 1977 album by Jamaican reggae band Bob Marley and the Wailers, first released in June 1977 through Island Records, following Rastaman Vibration (1976). The album's production has been characterized as laid-back with pulsating bass beats and an emphasis on piano, trumpet and guitar. Unlike previous albums from the band, Exodus thematically moves away from cryptic story-telling; instead it revolves around themes of change, religious politics, and sexuality. The album is split into two halves: the first half revolves around religious politics, while the second half is focused on themes of making love and keeping faith. On 3 December 1976, an assassination attempt was made on Bob Marley's life in which his chest was grazed and his arm was struck with a bullet, but he survived. Following the assassination attempt, Marley left Jamaica and was exiled to London, where Exodus was recorded.The album was a success both critically and commercially; it received gold certifications in the US, UK and Canada, and was the album that propelled Marley to international stardom. In 2017, Exodus was remastered and re-released for its 40th anniversary. Exodus has more tracks on Marley’s greatest hits compilation Legend than any of his other records. Exodus was his tenth album since the debut album The Wailing Wailers in 1965, including the live album Live! (1975).

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Reviews

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Jan 07 2021 Author
5
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
Aug 17 2021 Author
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.
Jan 17 2021 Author
5
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.
Feb 16 2021 Author
3
“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
Nov 08 2021 Author
4
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.
Jan 07 2021 Author
4
I feel like I get a contact high just from listening to this album.
Oct 06 2021 Author
4
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.
Feb 11 2021 Author
5
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.
Jan 13 2021 Author
5
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!
Mar 22 2023 Author
4
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.
Nov 03 2023 Author
5
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
Feb 01 2022 Author
5
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.
Nov 01 2023 Author
5
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.
Apr 20 2023 Author
4
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
Mar 31 2023 Author
4
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.
Nov 11 2023 Author
5
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.
Apr 29 2023 Author
5
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.
Apr 25 2023 Author
5
Awesome! The second half of the album is like a greatest hits compilation
Apr 21 2023 Author
5
Fantastic album and so fitting to get on 4/20!
Sep 21 2023 Author
5
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.
Apr 17 2023 Author
5
Great album with some really incredible songs on it.
Apr 13 2023 Author
5
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
Mar 28 2023 Author
5
Obvious five. When the deeper cuts are better than some monumentally famous songs, you know the album is good
Mar 28 2023 Author
5
just an excellent album. some great hits and some songs i didn’t know about, and everything was amazing.
Mar 25 2023 Author
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.
Oct 06 2021 Author
5
Brilliant, beautiful album. Spiritual without being preachy. Wonderful performances and production.
Sep 25 2021 Author
5
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.
Sep 21 2021 Author
5
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.
Mar 02 2021 Author
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.
Mar 26 2023 Author
4
Definitely some 5/5 songs on here, and I do want to return to this. Nice and mellow Saturday listening. 🤙
Nov 28 2021 Author
4
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.
Jan 22 2021 Author
4
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.
Feb 08 2021 Author
4
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
Oct 31 2021 Author
1
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
Jan 12 2021 Author
1
Oh dear. I lasted 3 songs.
Dec 19 2024 Author
5
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.
Dec 19 2024 Author
5
Beautiful, classic, perfect Sunday afternoon cozy music. Also, I once heard someone misquote Exodus as "Taxibus! / Movement of the people!"
Dec 18 2024 Author
5
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!
May 17 2023 Author
5
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
Nov 04 2023 Author
4
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
Nov 04 2023 Author
4
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
May 17 2024 Author
3
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
Mar 28 2023 Author
3
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.
Feb 27 2021 Author
3
The album that broke Marley to the masses. While I prefer the earlier, skankier shit it's an undeniable classic.
Jun 11 2021 Author
2
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.
Jan 12 2021 Author
2
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...
Jan 15 2026 Author
5
An extraordinary album that feels like a greatest hits package. Side 1 is a cohesive mix of slinky midtempo reggae jams, whilst side 2 is anthem after anthem
Jan 15 2026 Author
5
It is the middle of January, 2026. This album made me cry. Remembering that this was originally organized to play on an LP record helps understand it. It is in two distinct halves. The first half is "Natural Mystic" through "Exodus". It is fire and anger at oppression and injustice. An ever burning flame that we have to keep fighting. Keep marching. Keep standing up against oppression. Keep moving forward. The second half is "Jammin'" through "One Love / People Get Ready". It is pure love and compassion. That however hard the fight is, we can and must still take time to relax and care for ourselves and for each other. Because only Love will conquer Hate. But that second half is not a different album with a different message. It is the other side of the same fight. Listening to it as a whole, really makes the messages of those songs clear. Take "Jammin'". I used to think how it was just a chill out, smoke some weed, "no worries" kind of song. Not so. It is a call to rest between the hard fights, and the lyrics make that clear: " No bullet could stop us now, we neither beg nor we won't bow Neither can be bought nor sold We all defend the right, Jah-Jah children must unite Oh, life is worth much more than gold " It is not naive to the danger and threat. It just recognizes how vital rest and replenishment is to that struggle. We must embody the good we want to bring into the world. Even "Three Little Birds" is really, "Every little thing is GOING TO BE alright." It isn't now. But it will be if we keep the fire burning against tyranny and oppression, and show love for each other. 6/5 stars.
Jan 13 2026 Author
5
Three hundred albums into this list before the first reggae comes up. I wonder if there will be any more. Not Marley’s best, but still essential.
Jan 13 2026 Author
5
Really good groove and undeniably influential. The album has very very strong messages that are always relevant especially now and are delivered perfectly. Great musicianship as well and overall very little wrong with this album if anything. Standouts to me were obviously the big hits "jammin" and "three little birds" but also "waiting in vain" and "so much things to say" I'd give it 4 and a half but there's no half option so I'll round it up to
Jan 13 2026 Author
5
The wailers were a true fun and talented band, and then you add Bob Marley with some amazing lyrics! Such a great vibe and time in musical culture to experience. This is a must listen for all!
Jan 12 2026 Author
5
Made me feel high and like everything would find it's way
Jan 12 2026 Author
5
Klikkuð plata. Ein af þessum rosalegu. Bob er svo kósý en samt áhrifamikill.
Jan 12 2026 Author
5
Bob Marley var alveg ótrúlegur meistari. Platan í heild alveg geggjuð. Jammin, Three little birds og One love extra góðir gullmolar og Punky Reggae party algjör snilld.
Jan 11 2026 Author
5
This is one of those albums that, when I started, I knew must be on this list, and I’ve wondered when it would come up. As someone who rarely listens to reggae, Exodus defines the genre to me. Exodus is what I think of when I think of Bob Marley. So many classics are loaded up on this, it’s unreal. I always think Bob sounds tired at first. He had been shot at and forced to leave home, after all. Then, about mid-album, he brings the power. Exodus fulfills one of my qualifications for a truly excellent album, that is, the B side must be better than or as good as the A side.
Jan 10 2026 Author
5
This is easily 5 stars for me, probably my favourite Reggae album.
Jan 09 2026 Author
5
I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who doesn’t like Bob Marley at least a little. And I’m certain I wouldn’t want to. While most everything he did was good, this album is exceptional, even among his wider body of work.
Jan 08 2026 Author
5
Growing up there was a radio station in N.Y.C call 102.7 WNEW. They had a segment called the Perfect Album Side. In this segment ccasionally they had the Perect Album. This one falls in that category hands down. From the haunting fade in of Natural Mystic to the battle cry Exodus to the anthem of 3 Little Birds...every little thing is gonna be alright. Pure perfection.
Jan 08 2026 Author
5
Wonderful album, b side probably most stacked ever
Jan 06 2026 Author
5
Maybe no artist is more associated with their genre than Bob Marley. I'm not sure if that's a good thing or if it has made reggae kind of a static thing where most of it sounds like a Marley cover band. I consider myself a fan but I'm not sure I've listened to any of the albums rather than greatest hits albums of compilations or playlists. So Much Things to Say is a great song, better than some of the singles that came off this album. A three and a half minute Jamming is a shock, I usually only hear the extended version. Turn Your Lights Down Low is another great song, and the version Lauryn Hill did using the original is great too. Three Little Birds is a great pick me up song. It's hard not to smile a little bit when you hear it. It's too bad they turned him into a mascot...I guess he's Jamaica's greatest cultural export...either him or the bobsledders. Great album.
Jan 06 2026 Author
5
Emotive and atmospheric
Jan 05 2026 Author
5
Not a genre that I actively listen to much, but one I appreciate a lot. Álbum lindo.
Jan 03 2026 Author
5
Nice chill vibes, will be listening again in the summer
Jan 03 2026 Author
5
Obvious 5/5 if only for "Three Little Birds" -- the song that would soothe our newborn any time he was fussy.
Jan 03 2026 Author
5
Première fois que j'écoute un album de Bob Marley autre que le fameux Best Of "Legend". Pas totalement une découverte car la moitié des titres sont des tubes inusables mais le reste de l'album est tout aussi bon et l'ensemble est une merveille : à peine terminé on a qu'une envie c'est d'y retourner. Je ne m'y connais pas trop en reggae mais j'ai toujours beaucoup aimé le rythme doux mais entrainant.
Dec 29 2025 Author
5
Bob Marley is an important part of history and I respect his music, but unfortunately, my parents have ruined any and all reggae or reggae adjacent music for me by playing it CONSTANTLY every time I visit them sooo... Not my fave, but I'm giving it a 5 because I did at one time love this album
Dec 30 2025 Author
5
Great album
Dec 30 2025 Author
5
One of my favourite albums of all time. Absolute quality and reaches the depths of my soul 💖
Dec 29 2025 Author
5
Enligt statistiken är reggae en av de genre jag skyr mest. Konstigt, för det är ju först nu vi får ett album med själfull baktakt. Tydligen har the Police räknats som reggae. Bob måste vände sig i graven. För det här är nått helt annat. Lysande rakt igenom. Från den smygstartande Natural mystic till kärlekspoemet i One Love. Bröderna Barrett bygger ett oantastlig fundament som Bob å bandet med knutna nävar kan vagga på. Med fördel har albumet delats in i en sida med politisk protest och en med kärleksbudskap. Det märks inte bara på texterna utan även på soundet som är rått och uppkäftigt på första sidan och mjuk och silkeslent på andra. Absolut inga svaga spår. Däremot flera av allra yppersta klass som titelspåret, Guiltiness och Three little birds (som hur mycket man än försöker är omöjlig att spela sönder) för att nämna några. Det är ingen tvekan om vilken som är den bästa av Moseböcker.
Dec 29 2025 Author
5
Fick upp detta i slumpgeneratorn den 27/5. Kopierar anteckningarna från då: Uppfriskande långsamt. Inleder försiktigt, tassande. Varje spår bättre än det förra. Effektiva texter om kärlek, till livet, till människan, till Jah. Tight band, mäktig körtrio i the i-threes. Titelspåret är mäktig. A-sidan något mörkare. B-sidan; glädjebuskap. Bästa spår, omöjligt att välja. Marleys bästa.
Dec 29 2025 Author
5
I’ve listened to this album a million times.
Dec 29 2025 Author
5
There is reggae and then there is Bob Marley and The Wailers. Sometimes an artist transcends from rural poverty into pop culture icon immortality...and usually for good reason! As for this album, this plays more like a greatest hits rather than just a slice of time in a band's history.
Dec 24 2025 Author
5
I did enjoy the album but I is not my taste of music. But I did like some of the songs. Especially the song today
Dec 24 2025 Author
5
Honestly, I never really listen to Bob Marley on my own accord. But as I listened to the full album I realized how iconic most of the songs are. They have been in so many movies and have been on the background of my own personal life’s background. It deserves a listen from anyone who appreciates music.
Dec 23 2025 Author
5
Another banger album from Bob Marley & The Wailers, perfect for this Monday morning as I sat on the couch sipping my coffee.
Dec 23 2025 Author
5
Great album! Calm and easy listening.
Dec 23 2025 Author
5
I've never listened to a Wailers album (or pretty much any reggae album full stop) but I was blown away by ~40 minutes of pure bangers (8 of which are on the Liked list).
Dec 23 2025 Author
5
U2 is to Ireland as Bob Marley is to the Caribbean. What great album. Aston Barrett kills it with simple but effective bass lines. Insightful lyrics and great melodies throughout. The Heathen is the ultimate fight song.
Dec 21 2025 Author
5
What a beautiful album!
Dec 20 2025 Author
5
EXCEPTIONAL MUSIC BY EXCELLENT MUSICAL ICONS 🙏🏻👌
Dec 19 2025 Author
5
What an album! I absolutely love Bob Marley and this is probably his best album. It just makes me feel things. So many good tracks, and to top it off Three Little Birds is one of my all-time favorite songs. I can't say enough good things about Exodus.
Dec 19 2025 Author
5
love this one
Dec 17 2025 Author
5
Absurdoooo massa demais!!
Dec 16 2025 Author
5
never heard this in full, but some of his most popular tracks ever are on here so i know I've at least partially listened to this over the years Natural Mystic - 5/5 So Much Things to Say - 4/5 Guiltiness - 4/5 The Heathen - 4/5 Exodus - 4/5 Jamming - 5/5 Waiting in Vain - 5/5 Turn Your Lights Down Low - 4/5 Three Little Birds - 5/5 One Love / People Get Ready - 5/5 Average score: 4.5/5 (rounding up) not much i can say about this one. it's very good entry-level reggae that i feel just about everyone can enjoy, even if you're not the biggest fan of the genre
Dec 16 2025 Author
5
This is a great album, plain and simple. I won't pretend I understand what it feels like to live through the political turmoil he endured, the same way I can't ever really identify with 90's New York the way NAS raps about on Illmatic. But the music pulls you in here, just as on Illmatic. Two completely different stories, but both pull you in the same way. Both are super consistent throughout, and beg repeat listens. Biggest Hit - Exodus (though Three Little Birds is my fav Marley song) Miss (if I had to choose one) - Guiltiness Surprise - Natural Mystic
Dec 15 2025 Author
5
Vibey
Dec 14 2025 Author
5
The amount of people I see in the reviews for this album saying "I'm not a fan of reggae, but this was great" kind of speaks for itself with this album, so I'm gonna draw attention to something else. The bassist on this record needs some more people talking about him. He's great. I love how bouncy all of his stuff is throughout the album. Bass mention over, now to the music. Great music. It makes me want to find the nearest group of people and make a hand-holding circle and sway around for an hour and a half.
Dec 13 2025 Author
5
No skips
Dec 13 2025 Author
5
Bob Marley is the king of reggae. Ive always loved the sound and this album has some of the classic Marley hits plus more.
Dec 12 2025 Author
5
Bob Marley never misses and this album is no different, it's absolutely brilliant. The bouncing percussion and driving bass lines give such a vibrance that is complemented by the soulful vocals and storytelling throughout. Each song has it's place and it flows beautifully, climaxing with two absolute killer tracks that top off a 5 star album.
Dec 12 2025 Author
5
Basically a greatest hits record haha.
Dec 11 2025 Author
5
This wasn’t available through AppleMusic and I had to listen through YouTube- ordinarily the aggravation of that (all the ads) is enough for me to knock a star off the score or in some cases really make me not want to listen at all - but Marley - Exodus - man I could knock 5 stars off and it would still be a 5. Ya mon. Pure gold.
Dec 09 2025 Author
5
Who doesn’t love Bob Marley?!
Dec 09 2025 Author
5
Another one I’ve heard before! Great themes. Definitely the best reggae album of all time. Great bass.
Dec 08 2025 Author
5
An absolute classic
Dec 07 2025 Author
5
I feel like a big part of the challenge for me with these albums is putting aside preconceptions and just listening to the album in front of you. Anyway. Listening to this with intent felt almost like hearing some of the songs again for the first time and what a cracking album it is. So 5* for that, but also to spite the other reviewer below who keeps using the word political about Bob Marley like that’s a bad thing.
Dec 06 2025 Author
5
Complete audible serenity
Dec 06 2025 Author
5
this was fantastic, a perfect summer album
Dec 05 2025 Author
5
Uplifting beat. Easy to work to. Happy vibes. Familiar with a few songs.
Dec 04 2025 Author
5
Best album I have ever heard. Haven’t listened to it in its entirety in years.