King David's Melody cover

King David's Melody

Augustus Pablo · 1983

52 min · 15 tracks · reggae · dub music

A vibrant tapestry of echoing melodies and rhythmic dub that captures the essence of Jamaican roots music.

Why this album works

Best for
steady rhythmic journey throughout echoing melodies for relaxation inviting atmosphere for socializing
Context
By 1983, Augustus Pablo had established himself as a pivotal figure in reggae and dub music, following his breakthrough with 'East of the River Nile' in 1977. 'King David's Melody' served as a continuation of his innovative sound, further solidifying his reputation as a master melodica player and producer during a prolific period in his career.
If you like
reggae, dub music

King David's Melody is an album by Augustus Pablo, released in 1983. A vibrant tapestry of echoing melodies and rhythmic dub that captures the essence of Jamaican roots music. 'King David's Melody' is celebrated for its rich instrumental layering and innovative use of the melodica, contributing to the dub genre's evolution. The album gained critical acclaim, helping to popularize dub music internationally, and it is often referenced in discussions about the genre's influence on contemporary music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does King David's Melody sound like?

A vibrant tapestry of echoing melodies and rhythmic dub that captures the essence of Jamaican roots music. Rooted in reggae and dub music.

What makes King David's Melody by Augustus Pablo notable?

'King David's Melody' is celebrated for its rich instrumental layering and innovative use of the melodica, contributing to the dub genre's evolution. The album gained critical acclaim, helping to popularize dub music internationally, and it is often referenced in discussions about the genre's influence on contemporary music. By 1983, Augustus Pablo had established himself as a pivotal figure in reggae and dub music, following his breakthrough with 'East of the River Nile' in 1977. 'King David's Melody' served as a continuation of his innovative sound, further solidifying his reputation as a master melodica player and producer during a prolific period in his career.

Who is King David's Melody for?

King David's Melody works well if you're into steady rhythmic journey throughout, echoing melodies for relaxation and inviting atmosphere for socializing.

How many songs are on King David's Melody?

King David's Melody has 15 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

Tracklist

15 tracks·52:42

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

  • 1 King David's Melody Standout 3:24
  • 2 Zion High Standout 3:13
  • 3 Mr. Bassie Standout 3:29
  • 4 West Abyssinia 3:23
  • 5 Israel in Harmony 3:20
  • 6 Israel Dub 3:30
  • 7 Rockers Mood 3:25
  • 8 Sufferers Trod 3:21
  • 9 Revelation Time 3:24
  • 10 Selfish Youths 3:09
  • 11 Cornerstone Dub 2:47
  • 12 Kent Road 2:26
  • 13 Hot Milk (12" mix w/dub) 6:40
  • 14 Freedom Step 3:21
  • 15 Jah Strength Ital Step 3:50

Release Date

January 1, 1983

Genre

dub music, reggae

More albums in dub music

Artist Origin

Jamaica

Runtime

52 min 42 sec