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Bob Marley and the Wailers
Exodus
By Rob Selina
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CD Stock Number: Tuff Gong 422-846208-2
My dad has always been a big reggae fan and I have grown up listening to the Wailers among other great bands. To say that he has been an influence on my musical tastes is a gross understatement. After listening to his collection for years, I started amassing my own collection of reggae recordings. Exodus was the very first reggae album that I bought, and it’s still one of my favorites.
Rastaman Vibration might be The Wailers’ most popular album, but Exodus is probably their best. The album is a perfect example of roots reggae, yet Exodus has various musical styles implemented in it, from the structured strong beat of “Exodus (Movement of Jah People),” to the sweet melody of “Waiting in Vain” or the soulful R&B sound of “Turn Your Lights Down Low.”
I’ll be the first to say that the two more known songs off the album, “Jamming” and “Three Little Birds” get old after a while. But if you listen to them more carefully and get past the simple chorus you’ll find deeper meaning in what seems to be a simple song. “Jamming” for example, speaks of standing up for one’s rights and convictions.
The entire album is the epitome of simplicity and can be enjoyed superficially as great party music and something uplifting to play on rainy days, but it really is more than that. Listen to the lyrics and you’ll gain a new perspective on our social system and it’s injustices.
Bob Marley and the Wailers managed to redefine reggae and also spread a theological doctrine that still affects society today. Although there are better examples of Marley’s political views, Exodus is one of his best musical efforts and deserves a place in anyone’s music collection.
Enjoyment: 92
Sound Quality: 85
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