Catch A Fire

Marley kept his classic style in it and he sounded very good and the band worked together well with the lyrics and his voice

I've never been a big reggae kinda guy so this album was kinda lost on me. I always kinda feel like it's just the same sort of slow beat in the background with lyrics over top. Musically it doesn't feel like there's that much variation which leaves a lot of emphasis on the lyrics. The lyrics were solid, political as Marley's often are, just didn't really make me go wow this is incredible. Reggae has always kinda just been background music for me and this album did not change that.

songs do sound a bit the same & blend together, but he does a great job with lyrics. heavy topics but with an upbeat, reggae vibe

Mi quite irie with this selection on the platform, and even further in the cannon of Marley albums, this one always lands. Great mix of tracks from good ones that have been used and abused over the years to deeper cuts. Those "Legend" tracks that are on every college jukebox really sound better in the album experience. I'm glad I have this one on vinyl, praise be to Jah.

Bob Marley & The Wailers - Catch A Fire This album is a banger! So many good songs packed into one cohesive project, no filler, just straight reggae classics. This is the first reggae album I've heard, and honestly this might be my favorite genre. What I like about Bob Marley here is mostly the song-writing that he does, it's really passionate the way he sings and talks about multiple topics all into one. I'll definit revisit this album again some day, it's that good! 1.- Concrete Jungle = 9/10 2.- Slave Driver = 9/10 3.- 400 Years = 9/10 4.- Stop That Train = 9/10 5.- Baby We've Got a Date (Rock It Baby) = 8/10 6.- Stir It Up = 10/10 7.- Kinky Reggae = 8/10 8.- No More Trouble = 8/10 9.- Midnight Ravers = 9/10 FINAL SCORE = 8.8/10

This one was nice to say the least. I’ve surprisingly haven’t heard a whole lot from Bob Marley and The Wailers. I’ve only ever heard the hits from Bob Marley, and I’m glad that I checked out an album that he was involved in. The chill vibes here are immaculately done, it’s what I expected when listening to something like this and those expectations were greatly met. The playing here is great, there’s great performances all around. Catchy songs and choruses also fill this album. Bob’s recognizable vocals, lyrics and the group vocals greatly contribute to that. However, like most Reggae, it can start to sound and feel the same after listening to it for a bit. It can feel repetitive at times, in a good and bad way. While this album has its problems, it’s still a good and easy-listen. I’d recommend it, as a beginner album for reggae and in general. Very well done album. Rest in peace Bob Marley. 🫡

most of the record is a bit monotonous but concrete jungle is so fucking good

pretty groovy

Reggae, -> 3

You can't say you like reggae music and not have heard this album and rank it in the top 10 reggae albums of all time. Must listen: Concrete Jungle Slave Driver Stir It Up 5/5

I think this would've been a 4 if I was listening to this in my garden in June, rather than in the middle of winter in a dark office. Concrete Jungle and High Tide or Low Tide are good.

Reggae

This is all one song/jam session. It's not bad, but not as revolutionary as one might think.

not my thing, everysong sounds very similar

My second Marley album, I think I prefer Exodus but fantastic album nonetheless. Just puts you in a good mood, which is especially impressive considering the weight of some of the subjects it deals with. Peter Tosh's tracks on this are excellent too, especially Stop That Train. Accidentally listened to the deluxe edition, which has two disks with different recordings of the same songs in a different order, which is confusing if you're not expecting it.

Some good stuff here like Stir It Up and High Tide or Low Tide but it was a little too much of a laid back reggae sound for me. I prefer more upbeat reggae. I'd have to be in a particular mood for this slower stuff.

Classic Roots Reggae

I’ve heard this album at least 50 times. Basically the entire Marley discography is all I listened to like 15 years ago. Great stuff with a couple absolute bangers on here. This is one of the albums that has a more melancholic sound while talking about political topics that were very heavy for music that is normally associated with weed and happiness. 8/10

I guess the only Bob Marley I've listened to is from his Legend album. Pretty much all of this was new to me. Not bad. I don't generally get too excited about reggae but this was good.

He's fun and got a great voice. It was a pretty good album.

I love the mellow but powerful statement "catch a fire" for slavers, firmly telling them to "go to hell". A statement of Marley's utopia-- a new land without oppression, and liberation to have awesome sex. The music is familiar, the Marley reggae groove, perfect for a nightcap. And, of course, such great influence throughout the world. 4/5

Регги не мой стиль, но в целом приятная музыка, для фона в каком-нибудь кафе прекрасно подойдёт

This album was a great, relaxed way to start the day for me. While the record doesn't have a lot of standout moments for me, the chilled reggae vibe is apparent and consistent throughout. Couple that with the nice blend of protest music and more whimsical subject matter, you have a perfect representation of the genre. Notable Tracks: - Concrete Jungle - Stop That Train 7/10

Entspannte Reggea-Musik 4/5

I know the Bob Marley Hits, but have never listened to an album. So far it’s reggae. Nothing against Reggae, but I don’t see the excitement around it. “High tide or low tide” is a stand out track. I like the groove and melody. It was a good album, but in general I wouldn’t seek out Reggae on a regular basis.

7/10

Not as “revolutionary angry” as some other albums, it’s still in the classic Bob Marley wheelhouse. He won’t lose any fans listening to this album. This is just that classic Marley reggae that I personally couldn’t never find a replacement for. Does this album make me want to give it another listen soon? No, that is the only fault in it and my rating system. A good music presentation for any occasion I could think of, just not jaw dropping. Choice cut: Stir it Up

Not usually my cup of tea but happy to give it a listen. Better than I was expecting and a couple of songs stood out but just found myself getting more bored with it the longer it went on. Another where perhaps the circumstances of listening have an effect on the enjoyment of it.

Plenty of groove and a relaxed feel. However, I just felt that it is very repetitive, every song sounds the same.

Bob Marley and the Wailers team meeting Bob: Right lads, time for a new album, any ideas? Wailers drummer: Well I’ve bought some new kit and I’ve been experimenting with some jazz and rock styles. So rather than a short tinny drum roll to open a song or for all the fills, we could like mix it up a bit? The prog boys are all over it these days. Bob: [Sucks teeth] Anyone else? Wailers rhythm guitarist: You know the tch-tch tch-tch tch-tch rhythm thing we do on every single song ever. Well I’ve been playing around and I think we can do a tch-chugga-wah -tch type thing. Can I show you, I think it sounds great? Bob: Jeez boys, you need to lay off the weed a bit. Tell you what, let’s do the usual rhythm stuff on every song, but I will let you change the tempo occasionally. I’ll just mix the melodies up a bit. Our fans are too stoned to remember more than 2 songs at a time anyway. Winner winner jerk chicken dinner. Wailers: Yes boss [collective roll of eyes]

Bar stir it up, a surprisingly dull offering

Love Bob Marley. Love this album.

I enjoyed it while I listened, but few songs really stuck out as memorable. I’ll listen more and again. Helps explain why the live version of no woman no cry is the better one.

It was pleasant. Reggae hits the same as funk or jazz for me, in that it's all about the feel, and lyrics kind of fall to the background. It's not Marley's best work, but it's still a good groove.

Still not a fan of Bob Marley and did skip most of the album. Not a great start 😂

I don't like it, but it doesn't bother me, so I suppose it's okay

Catch a Fire is the second Bob Marley album I’ve encountered on this list, and it’s pushing me to reconsider every cheeky jab I’ve taken at reggae over the years. This album is where Marley and the Wailers took their sound to the world, fusing reggae’s raw rhythm with rock’s edge to reach listeners far beyond Jamaica. It’s a genre-defining release, capturing the struggle and passion Marley would soon be famous for. Tracks like “Stir It Up” and “Concrete Jungle” are among his best, showcasing his early songwriting power and magnetic presence. While Marley would go on to refine and deepen his sound, Catch a Fire feels like an essential stepping stone—a moment when reggae’s voice first truly began to resonate globally. And that original Zippo-lighter album cover that flips open sideways? Pure genius and easily one of the coolest album designs ever made. Did/Do I own this release? No. Does this release belong on the list? Foundational. Would this release make my personal list? You have to have at least one Bob Marley album. Which one I would add is yet to be determined. Will I be listening to it again? I will be glad to.

it's a classic, but not a personal favourite

all time classic

This is a very good album. Bob Marley is a fantastic talent for writing accurate social commentary lyrics that’s still work and are applicable to this date! There is anger and happiness on top of great music in this album. Favourite song: Stir it up and concreate jungle are great songs. Least favourite: All songs were good. Album artwork: Cool cover.

Another instance where listening to an album rather than the greatest hits is worth it.

What a great way to start the day.

I went into Catch a Fire without high hopes, having never quite connected with Bob Marley’s music. Even while watching the One Love biopic, the music felt like an interlude in the compelling story of his life rather than something that truly engaged me. After giving the album a chance, my opinion remains largely unchanged. While there’s some impressive lead guitar work on the opening track, Concrete Jungle, the rest of the album doesn’t leave much of an impression. Marley’s style and sound are clearly unique, but here, it just doesn’t resonate for me. Standout song: Concrete Jungle Score: 2/5

It just sounds like reggae, man. Clearly my ears aren't sonically refined enough to appreciate much more about it other than being pretty good reggae.

Same old reggae

Good vibes

So great - lyrics, music, vibe. What Reggae means to me.

yet another good album from the king of reggae music, catch a fire gives listeners an all-you-can-listen buffet of reggae tracks for every part of the day. from moving songs about manmade dilemmas, to rastafari history, to some feel-good anthems, to... getting a little frisky? whatever the case may be, bob marley further emphasizes his free spirit and wise words in his music.

Favourite songs: Stop That Train, Stir It Up, Kinky Reggae, All Day All Night Least favourite songs: Midnight Ravers 4/5

A great album!!! I don't know why I got me thinking about why I stopped listening to reggae but this has helped remind me to put it back into my playlist rotation.

Now we're talkin'... Bob is a god among men. "Concrete Jungle" may be one of the coolest songs ever and that's followed by the classic reggae super hit "Stir It Up"! You then roll into "High Tide", "Stop That Train", "400 Years" (with Tosh on vocals) & "Baby We've Got A Date", it's practically a Best Of, not a single weak track. It's so loaded with tracks that anyone who appreciates reggae can attest to, "All Day...", "Kinky Reggae" & "No More Trouble" are all fan favorites that get airplay today and have each been covered by other artists. Bob's message of positivity and fighting for your rights is universal and still brings light to people in need 50 years later. There's a Jamaican version and the US pressing. The US version is a bit more polished and sounds newer, the guitar work is much better as well. If you're streaming you'll see the deluxe version, try that, Disc 2. This is SO deserving of a 1001 spot for it's insane lineup of Mt Rushmore reggae tracks, his influence on reggae & song writing, the radio friendly songs that still get airtime today. It's Top 50 in my book! I listened to this two complete times I was enjoying it so much!

epidemy of reggae

Day294 - other than concrete jungle and stir it up i didn’t really care for

I really did feel like I was on an island.

One of the reasons why I love this project is that I would’ve never found out that I actually enjoyed Bob Marley’s music. I’m 30 albums in, and got two of his albums so far. Both are great stuff.

I didn't used to like Bob Marley cause he was the only Reggae artist known to white people, but this is pretty good stuff and I especially appreciate the songs from peter tosh (without even knowing they were written by him until now). Not so much into kinky reggae

Bob. 5

Cant go wrong

Concrete jungle, high tide or low tide and stir it up are all real good. The rest is kinda boring and sound mostly the same. Still very easy to listen to

For some reason, I’ve almost exclusively listened to “best of” albums from Marley, which I never do with other artists. Very cool to hear an actual studio album. Great album overall and a lot of killer tracks! Some tracks are a bit generic/very similar though.

Good Bob album. Couple hits and repetitive but still enjoyable

Hard to go wrong here. Great lyrics and smooth fun beats.

cool

Liked a couple of tracks I hadn't heard before, some of the rest fairly average.

Good stuff but man did it make me move slow at work.

Enjoyed this album a lot. Funky reggae guitar riffs and a great beat. I'll be listening to more Bob Marley for sure.

Not a bad album but not Marley’s best. Stir it up was my favourite.

The legend Bob Marley! Here's an artist who has been on my list for a long time. Not that Bob wasn't very familiar to me. Because anyone who never heard Three Little Birds or One Love in the last 5 decades was certainly living in the catacombs where Judas lost his boots. The album contrasts with the mainstream super productions of the time. While hard rock bands were exploring the weight of the most distorted guitars, progressive bands were extracting as much revolutionary sound effects from another world as the studios and technologies of the time could put into their songs, Bob Marley and The Wailers arrived bringing a completely different vibe, with its relaxed grooves, and lyrics that, despite being politicized, also spoke of peace and in fact brought peace to those who listened and listen to this day. Bob Marley is one of those pop culture icons that is hard to believe actually lived on the same planet as us and joins other names like John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix and others, in a group of legends that change the history of music and the world.

nice

I started out happily listening, but felt drained and irritated by the end. Too repetitive, and hitting the same notes for a whole album. Beautiful and confident voices though, and great lyrical content of course. And hot guys too.

Chill done well

Enjoyed it. I'm more into the hits, but it was good to dive into an entire album.

Muy bueno

Decent.

This is a nice album, I especially enjoyed “High tide or low tide”, which was new to me (i think because it doesn’t have the staccato reggae guitar that I just can’t learn to love), but it’s not one that I’d head back to anytime soon.

Listening to this hen it was released must have been a revelation. Growing up, my understating of Bob Marley was mainly based on Legend. When I heard the live album I got a glimpse of him that wasn’t so refined and this album furthered that. After some digging I realized there was a Jamaican version of the album that wasn’t mastered in London and that was the one I listened to. Stir it up feels fresh and new as does Kinky Reggae. Love it.

Bob is chill/ Legend remains his best - this pretty good.

I didn't hate it, but all of the songs sounded the same by the time it was over. 3/5

I like Bob Marley & the Wailers. Just didn't feel like I connected with it like I do their other work. Idk, maybe I'd rate it differently on another day.

I just don't really like reggea

Introduction to the wonderful world of Bob Marley. Reggae is so fucking great.

I'm not expecting much from this that I didn't get from the other Marley records on this list. There's no denying his artistry and social commentary, but sometimes I feel that if you've heard one reggae song, you've heard them all. Let's see... Alright, it's good, but I stand by my original assessment. Other than Toots & The Maytals, this is pretty much the only reggae I can stand for an entire album, but I'd still rather listen to something else.

It's just some damn good reggae, not much more you can say about it.

i don’t think there’s a single bad song on this album. not as good as exodus imo, but still a great reggae album

**Album Review: *Catch a Fire* by Bob Marley & The Wailers** Released in 1973, *Catch a Fire* was the first international album by Bob Marley & The Wailers, marking a pivotal moment in reggae music's global spread. While Marley had already gained significant attention in Jamaica, *Catch a Fire* introduced his music to a wider, international audience. The album blended traditional reggae rhythms with elements of rock, soul, and blues, allowing it to appeal to listeners who might not have been exposed to reggae before. With its powerful lyrics, rich production, and thematic depth, *Catch a Fire* remains one of the most important records in reggae history. This review takes an in-depth look at the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, while also addressing the strengths and limitations of the project. ### 1. **Lyrics** Bob Marley's songwriting on *Catch a Fire* delivers a deep sense of social consciousness, spirituality, and personal reflection. The album’s lyrical themes draw heavily from Marley's Rastafarian beliefs, political views, and experiences growing up in Jamaica. Marley weaves themes of resistance, unity, and redemption into a series of narratives that not only resonate on a personal level but also speak to broader social and political struggles. **"Concrete Jungle,"** the opening track, is a somber reflection on urban alienation. The lyrics convey a sense of entrapment and disenfranchisement in an industrialized, oppressive environment. Marley's imagery of a "concrete jungle" evokes both the harsh realities of poverty and the psychological toll it takes on those who live within it. Lines like "No chains around my feet, but I'm not free" reflect the systemic forces of oppression that persist even without visible shackles. **"Slave Driver,"** another politically charged song, condemns the legacy of colonialism and slavery. Marley’s voice seethes with righteous anger as he critiques those who continue to exploit the descendants of enslaved Africans: "Every time I hear the crack of a whip, my blood runs cold." Here, Marley draws direct connections between the historical injustices of slavery and the ongoing oppression faced by Black people. The song is a cry for justice and empowerment. **"Stir It Up"** is one of the album's few love songs, offering a brief departure from its heavier themes. Its sensual lyrics and laid-back groove showcase Marley's ability to write intimate, romantic songs while maintaining the soulfulness of reggae. "Stir it up, little darlin', stir it up" is a simple, yet effective refrain that contrasts with the more complex political and social messages on the album. In **"400 Years,"** written by Peter Tosh, the focus returns to the African diaspora’s struggles. Tosh’s lyrical refrain "400 years, and it’s the same philosophy" underscores the long, unbroken line of suffering endured by African-descended people. The song points out how, despite centuries of supposed progress, the forces of oppression remain entrenched. **"Kinky Reggae"** and **"Midnight Ravers"** explore themes of freedom and rebellion, touching on aspects of Rastafarianism, street culture, and resistance. These songs, while lighter in tone than some of the album’s heavier tracks, carry undercurrents of rebellion against societal norms and expectations. Overall, the lyrics of *Catch a Fire* are a major strength. Marley (and Tosh) expertly blend political messages, personal reflections, and spiritual insights, creating songs that resonate both emotionally and intellectually. ### 2. **Music** The music of *Catch a Fire* is rooted in reggae, but it incorporates a range of influences from rock, soul, and blues, which helped make the album accessible to international audiences. The album opens with the melancholy **"Concrete Jungle,"** which features an atmospheric guitar intro by American guitarist Wayne Perkins, who brought a rock influence to the recording. The guitar work throughout the album, notably on tracks like **"Stir It Up"** and **"Slave Driver,"** demonstrates how rock and reggae were successfully fused. Perkins' bluesy, wailing guitar solos added a layer of depth to the otherwise minimalist reggae arrangements. **"Slave Driver"** is a quintessential reggae track, driven by a steady, syncopated rhythm and deep basslines that provide a strong foundation for Marley's impassioned vocal delivery. The interplay between the bass and drums, a hallmark of reggae music, creates a hypnotic groove that feels both urgent and timeless. **"400 Years"** stands out with its slower, meditative tempo. Peter Tosh's vocal delivery and his rhythmic guitar strumming embody the roots of traditional Jamaican music while still appealing to listeners outside Jamaica. Tosh’s contribution to the album is significant in both lyrical and musical terms, as he helps to balance Marley's distinct style with his own. The album’s production features heavy use of organ and clavinet, which add to the richness of the sound. On **"Stir It Up,"** the laid-back rhythm is complemented by subtle keyboard embellishments, giving the song a soulful texture. The rhythm section, led by Aston "Family Man" Barrett on bass and Carlton Barrett on drums, consistently delivers solid, deep grooves that define the sound of the record. Their playing gives the album a steady pulse that is quintessentially reggae, yet layered enough to appeal to non-reggae audiences. Despite the seamless fusion of reggae with other genres, purists might argue that some of the more rock-infused elements detract from the authenticity of the sound. For instance, the electric guitar solos, while impressive, might seem out of place for listeners seeking a more traditional reggae experience. ### 3. **Production** *Catch a Fire* was produced at Island Records in London, and its production quality reflects the desire to reach a global audience. Chris Blackwell, the owner of Island Records and the album’s co-producer, played a key role in shaping the sound to appeal to Western listeners. He emphasized cleaner production techniques, making the album sound more polished than earlier Wailers recordings. One of the most significant production choices was the decision to add guitar solos, keyboard overdubs, and background vocals to tracks that were originally more stripped-down. Blackwell’s vision helped bridge the gap between reggae and rock, making *Catch a Fire* more marketable. His decision to release the album in a Zippo lighter-shaped cover was a marketing move that further reflected the album's international ambitions. The production is sleek, with clear separation of instruments and a focus on Marley's vocals, which are placed front and center in the mix. This clarity allows for Marley's lyrical messages to resonate more strongly. The use of reverb on both the vocals and instruments gives the album a spacious, almost atmospheric feel, adding to the introspective mood of certain tracks like **"Concrete Jungle"** and **"Midnight Ravers."** However, while the polished production helped *Catch a Fire* gain international recognition, some reggae purists argue that the slickness compromised the raw energy of the Wailers’ earlier work. Albums like *African Herbsman* (1971) presented a grittier, more authentic sound, while *Catch a Fire* feels tailored to suit Western tastes. This divide between authenticity and accessibility is a point of contention for some critics. ### 4. **Themes** *Catch a Fire* tackles several key themes: oppression, resistance, and spiritual liberation. Marley’s Rastafarian beliefs, which emphasize a return to African roots, spiritual unity, and rebellion against Babylon (a term used to describe oppressive systems), are central to the album’s thematic core. **Oppression** is the album’s most pervasive theme. Songs like **"Slave Driver"** and **"Concrete Jungle"** vividly depict the hardships faced by marginalized people. Marley doesn’t just offer a critique of material poverty but also speaks to the psychological and emotional toll of systemic injustice. The metaphor of Babylon is central in many of the album's songs, serving as a symbol for colonialism, racism, and the corrupt forces of global capitalism. **Resistance** is another crucial theme. In songs like **"400 Years"** and **"Slave Driver,"** Marley advocates for revolution—not necessarily through violence but through spiritual and cultural awakening. Marley’s brand of resistance is tied to his Rastafarian faith, which sees Jah (God) as the ultimate source of liberation. **Love** and **spiritual unity** also play important roles. Tracks like **"Stir It Up"** and **"Kinky Reggae"** demonstrate Marley's belief in love as a form of resistance and resilience. His view of love is not only romantic but also communal, emphasizing the need for unity among oppressed people. In many ways, the album’s more intimate songs serve as a reminder that even in the face of immense struggle, love is a sustaining force. ### 5. **Influence** *Catch a Fire* had a profound impact on both reggae music and popular culture. It was one of the first reggae albums to receive substantial international attention, bringing Marley and reggae into the global spotlight. The album’s fusion of reggae with rock and soul made it accessible to audiences outside of Jamaica, helping to broaden the genre’s appeal and influence artists in a wide range of musical styles, from punk to hip-hop. The album also solidified Bob Marley’s role as a global spokesperson for the oppressed. His socially conscious lyrics resonated with people worldwide, from African liberation movements to the civil rights struggles in the United States. The spiritual and political messages of *Catch a Fire* helped cement Marley’s reputation as not just a musician but also a revolutionary figure, making him one of the most iconic and influential artists of the 20th century. ### 6. **Pros and Cons** #### **Pros** - **Powerful lyrics** that address political, social, and personal issues, creating a multi-layered listening experience. - **Strong musicianship,** blending reggae with rock, soul, and blues in a way that feels organic and innovative. - **High production quality** that makes the album accessible to a global audience, with clean, polished sound. - **Themes of resistance and spiritual liberation** that resonate across cultures and time periods. - **Influential album** that helped introduce reggae to the world stage, elevating both Marley and the genre. #### **Cons** - **Some loss of authenticity** due to the rock-infused production, which may alienate reggae purists. - **Polished production** could be seen as overproduced, lacking the raw energy of earlier Wailers' records. - The album's attempt to cater to a global audience may have diluted the original sound and intent of some songs. - **Short tracklist** (nine songs) leaves listeners wanting more, though this is more a limitation of the album format at the time than a flaw of the music itself. ### Conclusion *Catch a Fire* remains one of the defining albums of Bob Marley & The Wailers’ career, marking a crucial moment in the internationalization of reggae music. While its polished production and rock influences may divide some listeners, the album’s lyrical power, musical innovation, and thematic depth make it an enduring classic. The balance Marley and the Wailers strike between resistance and unity, oppression and hope, ensures that the album continues to resonate with new generations of listeners. Its impact on global music culture cannot be overstated, and it remains a testament to Marley’s vision and artistry.

The harmony is unbelievable and I don’t think there’s one bad song in this album. 10/10

I like a reggae song on occasion. There's like a bakers' dozen on here, so way too many for me. 3 stars just 'cuz it's Bob.

Didn't listen this one, but it's nice music.

Third Bob Marley album in as many weeks. It’s not bad, it just does nothing for me. I nod my head along every now and then, but mostly I wait for it to end.

Great album. I liked the slow pace. There were also some songs I hadn't heard on there before.

Fave song was high tide! First timing listening

impeccable vibes

This is great, it just totally puts you in a relaxed and positive state.

I'm pretty new to reggae as a genre, but this album gives it a serious boost up my charts. Groovy. Soulful. Funky. Heavy. Playful. Sometimes there's this Bossa Nova ease and charm. Thanks 1001! 🙏

Bob Marley was never my true cup of tea, just something I like to sample. I could listen to bits and pieces here or there, but never an entire album. What do I think of ‘Catch A Fire’, though? I thought it was very good; and I'm glad I finally did listen to an entire Bob Marley LP. However, I also find it hard to really review. Marley had an uncanny ability to apply brutal, raw, and honest social commentary over the most chill, Caribbean flavoured reggae music. This album is absolutely full of examples of this. 'Concrete Jungle', 'Slave Driver', '400 Years', 'Stop That Train' and 'No More Trouble' are particular highlights. Subtle melodies, restrained yet intricate musicianship, and Marley's unique vocals all contribute equally to create an album that just clicks the very second it all starts. I have listened to this twice since it popped up on the list, and enjoyed it immensely both times. Which is why, even if you're like me and not a huge fan of reggae as a genre, I would recommend listening to it. Because it might turn your mind around. I was afraid this would go down as it did with any pure blues album I get; where it's a genre I'm not really into in its purest form, but only enjoy it as a flavour on something else. Yet reggae might now just be something I can explore later on down the road to expand my tastes. 'Catch A Fire' works as both great music and a phenomenal statement piece. The contrast between truthful lyrics and pleasant instrumentation can be a bit jarring. But you really do start to gel with it as the album goes on. 4/5

This is for children

Fabulous album!

Who doesn't enjoy a bit of Bob Marley? It's such great, happy-feel-good kind of music! Probably not the sort of album I would play a lot, but it's really fun to give it a spin every now and then. The production on the record sounds incredible and the music itself still holds up today. It's a genuine classic!

Have to be in the right mood to enjoy.

this was fine, some songs are catchy and vibe-y but a whole album of reggae definitely gets tiresome

Fun album

Steadily good across its 44 minutes. Not filled with hits but an excellent album nevertheless

Nice enough

Chill but not for me

Reggae!!

Pretty good.

Beautiful vibes

I'm all for structural and thematic continuity in an album but JESUS CHRIST can a dude get SOME variation pls? Or perhaps I was just not in the mood for reggae today.

Great album with some solid tracks such as Midnight Ravers, No more trouble and of course Concrete Jungle. However, with all its charm it isn’t a perfect album, all day all night for example wasn’t a song I’d put up there with the rest of the album.

me copó más de lo que pensé que me iba a copar pero te imaginás que yo arranque a escuchar reggae??? 7.5/10

I liked some of the songs but probably won’t revisit

5 stars. Absolute classic.

Albumi #58, 24.09.2024 Bob Marley & The Wailersin viides studioalbumi

Good, production is nostalgic and love the rhythm section, bass and drums stands out. Also love the vocals and lyrics, solid album but not standout for me personally so I will rate 3 stars.

Ugh

Such a surprise! First album offered and an artist I've loved for years! Brilliant songs and great vibes.

Honestly not that bad, i haven't been a huge fan of him, but it was great for study sessions

Great album. Will definitely listen to it again. No specific song stood out for me.

Ok, but bores me a bit after a few songs

Very relaxing

This can easily just fade in the background. could i write poetry to this? n

Not a bad showing, but not his best.

Bob Marley, schysst ganjamusik. Först trodde jag att denna skivan skulle vara lite långtråkig (hade inte hört några av låtarna innan) men den var överraskande varierad och passade perfekt till att handla på Willyz. Track #10 Kinky Reggae en favorit: "she had brown sugar all over her booga-wooga", boingoingoingoing. 4 stjärnor.

Classic reggae imperative.

Way better than I expected! Is it fair to say Bob Marley fans have kind of ruined Bob Marley? (And yes, by “Bob Marley fans” I mean college bro types.)

Good vibes

A classic reggae album by Bob Marley and the Wailers, Catch a Fire expose a joyfull rythmic album with the pronounced sound of Jamaica.

I still don't like reggae, but this was ok compared to the last Bob Marley album I heard.

Love some Bob Marley. Liked this one more than Natty Dread. Standouts: Concrete Jungle, Slave Driver, 400 Years, Stir It Up, and No More Trouble.

I kind of like Baby We’ve Got a Date, Stir It Up, No More Trouble

Klassisk Bobban. Gillar Kaya mer, men vafasen liksom.

Great, instrumentally diverse, fantastic performances and songs.

Nice, although I don't particularly enjoy this style.

Loved this classic album! Has all the awesome groove of an original Bob album plus all the classic message of activism, overcoming oppression and persevering! Loved it!!

erste song no cool, dchicken scratch gitarre und de mega dumpf bass isch scho no geil zeme, bi slave driver au. und sie singed schö mehrstimmig. isch jetz songwriting technisch weniger hammer. 400 years isch afoch 400 years und 400 years. stop that train isch au seehr simpel. orgle no schön. aber schisst mi jetz scho ah nomel 20 minute reggae lose. stir it up isch glaub de einzig song uf dem album woni kenn. er isch okay. er isch z lang. wiso heisst de sing kinky reggae. nai. wiso seisch du booger wooger bob. no more trouble het mi jetz au nöd catcht. nöd esoo spannend. midnight ravers het au recht agnehmi harmonies und cooli perkussion aber ich cha afoch mit de grundstimmig nüüt afange. schisst mi ah da album bi wüürkli kekn reggae guy da isch e guets reggae album aber nööö

uhh han glaub nanie es reggea album am stuck glost concrete jungle findi sehr en geile ahfang die nächste zwei lieder sind naja, aber stop that train fühli wieder recht de offbeat isch hslt eifach chli dominierend amigs oah s solo vo baby we've got a date isch mega cute bin chli verpennt und gnüsses gad recht hahahaha STIR IT UP KENNTMER JA seehr geil, und easy catchy hahaha han tüfi erwartige für kinky reggae gha aber ich han gad e gueti ziit seiter amigs auno stinky reggae?? de break bi no more trouble easy cute jaa es isch natürlich nöd s abwechsligsrichste album, zumindest us kinere sicht aber ich han e huere gueti ziit gha. wenns länger gange wär hetti vlt meh müeh geh aber eso hanis mega gnosse

Fiery, episodic, realistic

Pretty good, this was my first time actually listening to Bob Marley. This album made for some good background music as I did chores around the house. It was short and sweet, and I don't really have much else to say about it. Low 4.

Enjoyed this, 3.5

When I hear Afro-Caribbean music, I am always so amazed by how similar each genre sounds to Southern Black/Creole American music styles like (stomp/clap) Gospel, Blues, Zydeco, Country, Fife & Drum, etc... Hypnotic background vocals reminiscent of gospel/barbershop quartets, guitar playing that at some times sounds like a steel guitar, laid back drums and bass parts that keep an easy pace, and meticulous keyboard/clav/organ playing that take center stage. Talk about diasporic interconnectedness. Awesome vinyl sleeve btw 3/5

So, what a great first start to the 1001 album challenge!! I was a bit daunted at first when I saw 20 songs… but then I realised I had got the wrong album 🫣😮‍💨 Overall, I really enjoyed this album - more than I expected to! It really made me want to groove! I can see myself listening to the album both when I want something chill as well as when I wanted something good vibes (which I want a lot haha!) I particularly loved High Tide Low Tide! My one critique would be that some of the songs sounds slightly repetitive and, as a result, slightly boring! In all honesty, I don’t know how often I’ll come back to this album!

Sometimes reggae feels quite samey to me by the end. It's nice chill music though

OkGood

Although Bob Marley is revered by many I have never been a fan of his music. I recognise the importance of Reggae music but I don't enjoy it personally. I haven't listened to a Bob Marley track in some while and thought at times whilst listening to this album, vocally he sounded quite weak in parts but that is probably down to the nature of the song and my ears. It has to be in this album list because Marley was a major influential figure. The reason I am giving it 4 stars

That was wonderful! I like reggae but don't love it. However, the obvious genuine genius of Bob Marley lifted the whole album for me. I can't explain it better than that

It's Reggae, it's inoffensive.

All the classic Bob Marley tracks, ahead of its time, Bob is one of the GOATs

...

I won’t Stir It Up. I want No More Trouble, just this album.

Bob fucking Marley.

Didn't love it as much as I thought I would, but I can hear how good this is. Good for a mellow afternoon. 3/5

Not had enough reefer to think this is revolutionary

Classic

If I wasn't from Jamaica then why would I wear this hat

All my problems just float away on a blunt

Jah

-Appropriately, I was very drunk and high while listening to this so maybe my review is biased?? but damn this hits hard. the first few songs don’t do it for me quite as much but the second half or so is godly. amazing rhythm -Favorites are Slave Driver, Stir It Up, No More Trouble, Midnight Ravers, and All Day All Night

Concrete Jungle // High Tide Or Low Tide //

3.5 rounded down i can’t really see myself revisiting this a whole lot but it’s fun ! highlights: concrete jungle, slave driver, no more trouble (aug 28 2024)

At this point I am really struggling to think of something new to say about Bob Marley. It's good, okay?

Marley, Tosh and Wailer never failed to produce world class and genre defining music. Catch A Fire is no different.

Of the Marley I’ve heard, this one has more interesting guitar parts that almost sound 70’s American influenced. Stir it up is a standout and album is a vibe overall.

A great album. All vibe.

my first reggae album ever and it was a pretty good intro to the genre! i loved the politically charged lyricism on here, didn't leave any room to sugarcoat the effects of slavery on the black community. hopefully there's more to come on this list :))

Alright reggae album, nothing super stands out, maybe all very samey. 3* Highlights: stir it up

Bob is always welcome but this one didn't catch fire ironically. Sounded like a late stage album where the sound was locked in but the hits have dried up a bit.

It's Bob Marley & The Wailers! Not much more to say! Just amazing! My head was bopping throughout the whole album! The lyrics are great, the music is fantastic as are singing! Great rebel/protest songs Fantastic album!

All reggae always seem to have the exact same tempo. A lot of the songs on this album seem to feel the same, too. There never feels like there's any variation from one song to another. Having said that, this album still had Marley as the factor that separates it from most other reggae works. But even with Marley, the songs did not stick out for me as much as I was hoping. Top tracks: "Stir It Up," "400 Years"

I don't know, I just didn't find this album as captivating as the other two Wailers albums, even though this one is more revered than Natty Dread. Maybe it's because this was one of the first albums to really put reggae or Bob Marley and/or the Wailers on the map. It just felt all a little too much of the same. Their other albums have more tempo changes and different stylings. I felt like I was hearing the same song half the time. Granted the lyrics changed and those lyrics were often very powerful. Stop that Train felt a bit different to start the song; intriguing. Baby We've Got a Date was also a bit more uptempo but it sounded a bit hokey. Stir it Up had the coolest opening of any song - some real nice wah pedal effects on the guitar. Maybe that's why it's such a classic. All in all, it's probably a 3.5, maybe even a 4, but I'm rating it lower to clearly distinguish this rating from my other 2 ratings of their albums.

I like that one song, where they play that reggae beat? Ok, so I really liked Exodus and was pleasantly surprised at the variety in the music, after expecting an album of the same reggae beat throughout. Well, this album unfortunately met my expectations of every song sounding similar. It's not a bad sound - these songs are all really good and the band sounds great (especially the guitars). But a full album of similar sounding songs is always a minimum of one star off for me. Concrete Jungle was probably the most unique, particularly the first 30 seconds, but then went into basic reggae (with some really good guitar soloing). No More Trouble teased a non-reggae beat for almost one whole minute! Favorite Tracks: Concrete Jungle, Slave Driver, 400 Years.

It's great to hear the Wailers far away from American tourist traps, when their social and political themes shine through instead of being drowned out by bros joking about blunts. Now, this album does have some fun and literally some kink in it too, but there's so much more to their music than not worrying about a thing. This was a great listen and I will absolutely revisit this soon.

Thoroughly enjoyed this album. Brought me happiness, concern, and serenity. Just loved it and I will return. I feel odd saying I appreciated the simplicity because it feels like it dismisses the complexity I know is there. But, really, I enjoyed how it’s deliver in a seemingly simple manner. So soulful.

This album just makes me want to grab a good chair, some cold beers and smoke a joint while enjoying the vibes. This is the first full Bob Marley album I've listened to and I can understand why he was as big as he was. Easy to listen to with some stand outs like Stop That Train. I'm excited to come back to this one and further explore Bob Marley & The Wailers.

I like this era of reggae Tosh and Marley together, and while I hadn't listened to this album through before, I knew a lot of the songs - 400 Year or Kinky Reggae probably my favourites.

It is beautiful and wonderful. It feels like a big Jamaican hug. Sitting on the beach with family and friends, appreciating, love and sharing our current world, life and blessings but also believing we can have more and dreaming of how to change the world so we can get there.

yes! I like this reggae music on a Sunday morning.

I love Bob Marley. He sings of deep cultural experiences and his reggae is perfect for campfires, weed and straight chillin. He has a calming effect on my human spirit, and he really is pure Jamaica. Thanks for the great tunes, Bob.

Vibes 1000000%

Love some reggae, and this is good reggae

The consensus is swelling: 'Catch A Fire' by Bob Marley and The Wailers - their first for Island Records and first of two records from 1973 - is now considered their best album. When I was a kid, 'Exodus' seemed to be the Big One, but of course, nothing compared to 'Legend: The Best of Bob Marley and The Wailers' as the ultimate collection of songs. To me, I'm still sceptical if the album form is really the way to understanding and appreciating The Wailers since reggae and dub music was mostly presented in singles, EPs, and 12 inch records. But then again, Bob Marley and The Wailers were reggae artists operating in a rock-and-roll framework; on 'Catch a Fire,' it certainly shows. I used to think that people liked the origin story of this record more than the songs itself, with the origin story consisting of big-baller moves from Island Records head Chris Blackwell, breaking new ground for reggae with the album's pioneering use of a state-of-the-art studio, and wildly ambitious and inventive album art. But no, the songs really ARE that good. "Concrete Jungle" is as moody of an album opener as it can get, though I think the live version from 1979 is much better. "400 Years" begins with the type of dissonant guitar drone that would be just at home on any indie rock record from the 80s and 90s. I'll admin that I have a soft spot for that children's toy-like synth tone you hear in the chorus; it basically sounds like tiny icicles forming, which feels insane to see given the very hot climate. "Stop That Train" has tambourine that is panned so far to the right and so off and away in the distance, it makes you think that it's a sound in your natural surroundings. "Baby We've Got A Date" has some of the most unbelievably sounding slide guitar. Is "Stir It Up" the most liquid sounding song of all time? Just pools and pools of warm, teeming energy that you shimmer and ripple throughout the song. I never tire of it. To promote this record, Bob Marley and The Wailers opened for Sly and the Family Stone, who in 1973, released 'Fresh,' their last truly Classic Record. Imagine seeing both Bob Marley and The Wailers during this period AND Sly and the Family Stone on this tour? It makes one reflect on the audience and say, "God, I see what you have done for others..." Iconic album art - both versions. A

Stir it up and concrete jungle are classics

Absolute gem. Essential listening.

I'd probably really enjoy this on a Jamaican beach. But I think this is not the best of Robert.

Non so, Exodus mi era piaciuto di più. Molto bella "Concrete Jungle"

I don't mind Bob Marley playing when it's faintly playing in the background of a Gastropub's speakers, but aside from that, I'd neve seek it out to listen to on my own.

Classic

I don't understand Bob Marley. I feel like I must be missing something as I have found every one of his albums to be boring

Nice and relaxing

Really great reggae album, so bouncy and fun

Love Bob Marley. Great ALbum. Underappreciated album.

Awesome. Fun. Some familiar ones some deeper cuts

It surprises me how much I really don't care for this album. The two best songs on the album were both written by Peter Tosh. Marley has a couple good ones, but a lot of this album was forgettable and I didn't connect to it at all

They’re call but I do admit that it sounds a bit same. A greatest hits would definitely get a 5. Best listened on a yacht in the Caribbean with the wind blowing through your hair

Decent listen but not my favourite genre

Yeah. The man

Great reggae album.

Ya man

Big Bob guy but something about this album doesn’t work. I enjoy the more upbeat and higher tempo, higher production records. Babylon by Bus (live album) RULES.

I've heard of Bob Marley and the Wailers before, particularly the song "Stir it Up" from this album. As a reggae staple, they're generally pleasant, and I enjoy the rollicking guitars and meaningful song construction. They sound more involved than what could be pigeonholed as background music, especially with the large lyrical depth ranging from love like "Stir it Up" to political injustice like "Slave Driver". The only problem I have is the similar sound and tempo carried across most songs, though that seems to be par for the course with the reggae genre. I will give them credit for some variance such as the slow burn intro to "No More Trouble" and the slide guitar work done on "Baby We've Got a Date (Rock it Baby)". Overall, Catch a Fire was an enjoyable listen for its style. If you are into reggae or curious about the genre, then give it a listen.

67

Well-crafted and pleasant to listen to 3.6

Very solid. Well produced. Enjoyable listen. 4.0

Deep, melancholic and relaxing

enjoyed throughout

Highlight of this album came when I was listening to the last few tracks while driving two angry cats to the vet, and my partner turns around and says "Oh, are you the wailers?" Otherwise a fine album but indistinguishable from their other two albums on the list.

worse than the other 2, glad we're done with this

This was fine, I guess. All of the songs on this album and the other Bob Marley album we listened to sound the same to me.

was dreading more bob marley but there were aspects of this that sounded similar to music i like. 1.5

I guess I like this one compared to the others

An awesome album. It had some great songs all the way through, and I only recognized one or two.

4/5

This was alright, I had not heard most of these songs. Unfortunately I'm going to go with a rating of 1 I think, and I'm unlikely to revisit it as opposed to "Live!" London, 1974. That live album is probably a 4 for me - edited, bumping this up to a 2

i have to be in the right mood for reggae, but this is pretty good.

Nothing wrong with a bit of reggae, it's groovy and you feel incredibly cool listening to it. I do find after a while that I might appreciate a change of pace or a different dynamic.

To have this as your first album... wow. Happy that I voted Natty Dread as a 3 because this is far ahead for me - 4.1. Latter half was excellent, perfect for the heat in London this week.

nice one

Sublime.

4/5

Very solid early effort from The Wailers. Stir It Up is an obvious highlight, but I actually love Peter Tosh’s contributions on this one (especially Stop That Train). I think some of the later albums are better, but it’s still a great album and Marley is always welcome on my speakers.

bopped to deluxe edition of this at work and it repeated and I kept bopping without noticing. solid album

liked it

Not the most obvious Marley record but a beautiful one with a tinge of darkness and wit, yet still a great reggae record. I mean the evergreen and global omnipresence of Bob Marley is an interesting comment on the Euro / American centric bias of musical culture - and this could easily be as, or more relevant to global audiences than say Abbey Road. Maybe comparing apples and oranges but definitely relegating this to a genre album would be a crime. Try playing ‘Stir it up’ anywhere in the world and just watch a crowd melt. Maybe one exception as sometimes reggae is the coriander of musical genres but man is it amazing if you get past it.

Another roots reggae record. Despite it's cultural importance to Jamaica, I fear it's over-represented here compared to other Jamaican genres of similar importance, such as first-wave ska, dub, dancehall. I suppose no Jamaican artists are as big as Marley, but you really only need Exodus. Catch A Fire is fine.

Super chill music. The rhythm automatically makes your legs bounce to the beat.

Fun album! Good to hear the early up and coming sound that they had here. Stir it up is a solid track. Concrete jungle was deep. Not much for roots music in my life, so this was neat exposure

Really enjoyed the first half of the album. Would give 3.5 if able. Think I like Exodus a bit more. Like High Tide a lot.

I've never really gotten into reggae; I enjoy it, I just don't fully "get" it. Maybe it's just being raised a punk. That said, I am softening towards the genre and it's a record like this that shows me why: solid playing, great lyrics, and good music. Hard to beat, I guess. Favorite tracks: "High Tide Or Low Tide", "Midnight Ravers"

A nice sound. Only one, though.

I forget how political this album is, still lots of head boppers

I feel like this album is a good album, but I am expecting a Bob Marley album and it fell short of the one we listened to a few weeks ago. The story behind how this album came to be was interesting though :)

Yea more Bob please

Some lovely moments!

Perus Wailerssia...

Laid back sound, demonstrates bob Marley's range well. But does blend a bit into one. 3.5*

It's pretty good

bib,l,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, bib marley...... @@@ 22222 bub a. bob marley!!!!! %%%%%%%%bor marley... the album comprises, of songs.. logn and short... big and small... matters not..... relax.......take a chill pill.........the DEVILS lettuce heh,,,,,,, marhuanaaaaaaaaaaa.............. blib........ one life....... one smile........ dancing away in the night....... and feeel aaaalright......... bob ................bov. bo kaf 400 yearss..

8/10. Very enjoyable. Calming. Gets a little bit repetitive at times in my head sometimes which holds it back from the 9.

More like a 3.5 - great music, strong socio-political message without being hamfisted and some excellent singles (Stir it Up). Exodus and some other albums are better and more cohesive, though

Laid back, chill and easy going album. First reggae album I've ever heard. The instrumentation is sparse but the melodies and beat are infectious and catchy. Goes best with weed.

Solid album but not my favorite Bob

Chill vibes lovely

Wasn’t sure if I’d have time to get to this today but yayyyy I had time and it was the perfect sorta album to listen to while being in boring meetings all day and finally having a chance to listen to music again while finishing up the work day. Another case of “a couple songs really stood out, but most were just generally nice to listen to.” No real complaints. Really nice.

vibes-oriented

Great album. Reminder of Marley’s real genius. Don’t listen to a lot of reggae but this was fun.

Really enjoyable, who knew they had more than 3 songs and they're actually really good. Best song - Concrete Jungle

meh

Certainly plenty listenable. I'm not a reggae fan, though, so I can't give it more than 3.

Excellent music.

The king of a genre

Pretty sure this is my favourite Wailers album, including all the stuff the members put out individually afterwards. This just hits so hard, every track is great. I don't think Marley himself came even close to this again until Exodus, and this is still better than Exodus.

I wanna smoke week ahahahaha

you must ask yourself how can vibes be so immaculate, stir it up, midnight ravers, and stop that train go so hard

Great album really enjoyed it

A great album for those that love that reggae sound. A bit political, social, and sweet.

18 Junio 2025 cuando escucho actually. Puro reggae, like salsa, difícil que no me gusten temas. Same vibes. Todo cool so far. Slave driver me aburrió un poco, lo demás fire as usual de parte de Marley. Pretty cool, ya quedan alt versions. Solid 4.

I love Bob Marley and the Wailers so much! This album had a few songs I hadn't heard before, which tells me I need to stop just listening to anthologies and essentials lists.

Pretty good. Stir it Up especially. This is classic and sounds great.

Chris Blackwell is a sly fox. When the Island records boss signed (Bob Marley &) The Wailers, he knew he had gotten his hand on a Jamaican phenomenon, just as the world was slowly starting to discover the music from this former British colony. Even shrewder than that, he made the astute move have the band record *Catch A Fire* while they were still in England (a way for them to pay the ticket back home with the advance they got for the recording of the album). And after the first sessions, he had a few cuts tweaked so as to add discreet yet pivotal rock flavours in the instrumentation. The end result was, simply put, a timeless record, both authentic to the bone and yet palatable to the wide world outside of the Carribean island. With a stellar sound to boot. Of course, Bob Marley was about to become a "legend", with most of his subsequent albums displaying its string of iconic reggae cuts as they integrated different sorts contemporary sounds (always very subtle additions) while never losing the mandatory "roots" feeling in the picture. But that conquest of the planet started here, in tandem with other promising figures in that genre, Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer. To this day, this is probably one of the most fascinating reggae records, with lush instrumentation, all sorts of fascinating guitar or organ licks, and a rebellious spirit that would be explored further in Marley's other masterpieces *Burnin'* or *Exodus*. "Concrete Jungle" is a perfect opener, thanks to its smart chord changes. Wayne Perkins's slide guitar arrangements on "Baby We've Got A Date" bring unexpected Hawaian or Country-like colors to the song. "Slave Driver", "Kinky Reggae", "No More Trouble" and "Midnight Ravers" are excellent cuts as well. All those tracks might not be the most famous songs written by Marley but they're certainly among his very best. "Stir It Up" , introduced by a phasing effect immediately sending you to reggae heavens, is both a world-famous hit and an excellent track, though. And Peter Tosh's "400 Years" and "Stop That Train" are topical jewels. The incredible clavinet arrangement on the first, along with the soulful vocals backed up by those airy guitar lines on the second, makes those cuts musical gems as well. Finally, the Zippo lighter design of the original release is, simply put, a genius idea. 5/5. Number of albums left to review: 152 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 366 (including this one). Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 214 Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 272

I like it! Very chill and I will likely listen to more from them.

Sympa au bureau un lundi :) (mais un peu redondant)

Is there even anything to say, it's just a masterpiece.

2013 remastered version. Few great songs would be nice for a dynamic shift between tracks. Last two tracks (Jamaican Version) are as good as the best tracks.

Mostly enjoyable, a great vibe, although some of the songs are a little musically repetitive.

Loved it I should listen to him more

Ei ole oma juttu tämä.

No es el estilo de música que más me llama para escuchar en mi día a día pero es un disco que me pareció entretenido para escuchar. Deben ser una banda muy divertida para ver y aprecio que todos los temas hayan sido grabados en vivo.

Great album !! Very enjoyable to listen :)

Preferred natty dread more but still awesome. I need to pick up

Preferred Natty Dread to this one I think

The band is phenomenal, some classic tracks here and have on playlists. Not an album I'll return to. I prefer to live reggae, it is just hits harder.Would have loved to have seen this band in their prime. I'm giving the album 3 stars, but I'd fight you too see it live.

Bob Marley at his best, less of the hits and more politically charged songs. Liked it but still not really a fan of reggae, the beat really doesn’t match the tone of the songs.

Sheer pleasure! 10/5

top tier reggae, one of the few actually worth listening to. Excellent musically, lyrically relevant and i mean its Bob Marley, how many people can name another Reggae artist?

I'm seeing the appeal! I really got into it from 400 years, and then I was vibing out with my homemade strawberry milk

Introduced to reggae music by this album. A life time of music pleasure followed.

я включил и начал читать регги про работу. Это хорошо.

For someone who doesn't like Reggae I've annoyingly found myself at many concerts given friends' music tastes. Once left a Damian Marley half way through as i thought it was about to die of boredom. My mine gripe is the lack of diversity in songs. Go through this album, listen to the first 2 seconds (the intro percussion beat), and then skip to 1 minute or so. All 9 tracks are virtually indistinguishable. Don't understand it. 2.5*

Ya Mon! It was lit and should’ve burned longer. Classic sound.

Such a swirly beautiful sound. Powerful words flowing through island vibes

it was good reggae. idk much more to say, i'll have to go back and read through the lyrics to try to pick up on more

Great album. Not a lot of huge hits, but it is consistent and "clean" all the way through. It feels and sounds refreshing, and it is laid back and "cool" all the way through. Definitely a solid album I will put on again.

Just pure joy. It's catchy and relaxed and positive vibes.

This is the ....third? fourth? Regaee album?? I just don't like it.

Very easy listening. Reggae isn’t my favorite genre so i don’t think the album will stick with me very much. It was pretty good though. 6/10

Enjoy Marley’s reggae even though I’m not too familiar. I see in the comments that the lyrics have a bit more depth but as usual my ears treat the vocals as an instrument far more than commentary. Easy to zone out and imagine chilling on the beach, drunk and/or high, which is a welcome fantasy on so many days! 3.5/5

3.5 stars. Another Bob Marley album, another struggle to pay attention to what he's actually talking about while the music sounds easy going and groovy. Some titles are very distinct, such as "Slave Driver" VS "Baby Got a Date." Simple music with an interesting perspective.

Feels like the same song over and over.

Bow down! This really is one of the greatest albums of all time, and Stir It Up is one of my favorite love songs. I've been listening to a lot of reggae on SomaFM's Heavyweight Reggae station recently, and so this really pops up as exceptional work.

Very-very good!

5 doobies.

Another 5-star reggae masterpiece

Not for me

This was my first experience with both Reggae and Bob Marley. A very groovy album the whole way through. The calm nature was delightful and the message of needing to overcome and love was appreciated overall a great album, and will be listening to more soon.

Wonderful reggae

Another Bob Marley straight away. I preferred Natty Dread but this was okay. I still dislike reggae. Fave Track: Stir It Up Rating:

Pretty good but not my favourite

After a disappointing tour of the UK in 1972, Bob Marley and his band were broke and didn’t even have enough for the air fare back home to Jamaica. Chris Blackwell of Island Records advanced them £4000 which got them their tickets and enough left over to put this record together in a decent studio. The result is one of the greatest reggae records of all time, mixing songs about slavery and oppression with gloriously blissed out love songs. Simply gorgeous!

I'm not a huge fan of reggae but this is clearly a good album. I love the raw sound; the lyrics are meaningful and impactful.

I'm going to preface this by saying that I hate reggae music. I find the sound of it maddening. With that said I went into this with an open mind and actively trying to find the good points. I will say that the musicians were tight and I like that lyrically it had something to say. It was still a struggle to sit through this though. It's certainly not something I would ever listen to again.

It's overplayed, but a true classic nonetheless.