Whether you like to kick back with a joint, groove to some reggae or have dubbed yourself Rastafarian (pun intended), ‘Catch A Fire’ is the definition of an essential album. Considered by many to be the breakthrough album for Bob Marley & The Wailers, there is truly something magical about this album. The deep bass & groovy back-beat of ‘Concrete Jungle’ establishes the sonic landscape which is so unique to The Wailers. Bob Marley’s quirky timbre and attitude really pushes the energy to another level. Although exploring themes of black oppression and the hard times felt by the community of Kingston, Jamaica, this album will by no means leave you feeling down.  ‘Stir It Up’ is found on almost every ‘Greatest Hits’ album with Bob Marley’s names on it, by all means a classic and influential song which was first released on ‘Catch A Fire’. At the time Peter Tosh was a influential part of The Wailers and two of his trademark songs ‘400 Years ‘ & ‘Stop That Train’ are featured on here.  Carrying some of the most amazing vocal harmonies and song structures, ‘Kinky Reggae highlights a very promiscuous Bob Marley at his finest.

If you have never listened to this album, make sure you have the subs on nice and loud! Although not required, it may help indulging in a little spliff and some Jamaican Rum to get your feet skanking!

Review by PHIL CHEPLIK

Tracklisting:

1. Concrete Jungle
2. Slave Driver
3. 400 Years
4. Stop That Train
5. Baby Weʼve Got A Date
6. Stir It Up
7. Kinky Reggae
8. No More Trouble
9. Midnight Ravers

Highlights: Slave Driver, Kinky Reggae

Listen to this album on Spotify: