What makes Dub Setter by Adrian Sherwood notable?

This album is significant as it reaffirms Sherwood's status within the dub genre, drawing attention from both long-time fans and new listeners. It received positive critical reception for its innovative blending of various styles, further influencing contemporary artists in the dub and electronic music scenes. When 'Dub Setter' was released in 2009, Adrian Sherwood was already a seasoned figure in the music scene, known for his pioneering work in dub and reggae. This album came after a series of influential collaborations and productions, marking a return to solo work that showcased his distinct approach to sound manipulation and production techniques.

How many songs are on Dub Setter?

Dub Setter has 10 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Dub Setter

Adrian Sherwood · 2009

45 min · 10 tracks · dub music

A vibrant fusion of bass-heavy rhythms and immersive soundscapes that push the boundaries of traditional dub music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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His Master's Voice — The opening track sets the tone with its deep bass and immersive textures, establishing a soundscape that invites listeners into Sherwood's sonic world.
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Wake Up Call — This track features a captivating vocal performance layered over intricate rhythms, showcasing Sherwood's ability to merge traditional reggae elements with modern production.
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Elixir of Life — With its hypnotic groove and expansive sound design, this track exemplifies Sherwood's mastery in creating atmospheric depth while maintaining danceable beats.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong production and unique soundscapes, affirming Sherwood's place in dub music.

What we noticed

The album features ten tracks, each with a distinct bassline that drives the rhythm while layered effects create a rich soundscape.
Several tracks incorporate field recordings and samples, adding an organic texture to the electronic elements.
The tempo varies across the album, with some tracks maintaining a steady groove while others introduce syncopated rhythms that shift the listener's focus.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Wake Up Call

The chorus shifts between uplifting affirmations and urgent calls to action, contrasting hope with the need for change.

This dynamic interplay not only energizes the listener but also emphasizes the song's message through its shifting tone.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 His Master's Voice 4:15
2 Wake Up Call 5:01
3 Lucky Tarzan 5:59
4 Pick 'n' Mix 3:06
5 Elixir of Life 5:10
6 Yellow Fever 4:43
7 Taboo 4:30
8 Flush It 3:51
9 All Will Be Well in the Garden 3:56
10 Kingston Tower 4:46

What to play next

Listen next

Survival & Resistance

2012

Go back to

Becoming a Cliché

2006

Full Adrian Sherwood discography Artists like Adrian Sherwood

dub music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata