Protest cover

Protest

Bunny Wailer · 1977

41 min · 8 tracks · reggae

A vibrant blend of roots reggae infused with poignant social commentary and a call to action.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Get Up Stand Up — As a rallying cry for social justice, this track encapsulates the spirit of resistance that permeates the album, becoming one of Wailer's most recognized songs.
  • →
    Moses Children — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its reflective lyrics about identity and resilience, showcasing Wailer's lyrical prowess.
  • →
    Follow Fashion Monkey — Critiquing societal norms and materialism, this song uses clever wordplay to challenge listeners to reconsider their values, highlighting Wailer's role as a cultural commentator.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends vibrant reggae rhythms with pointed social commentary, creating a distinctive sound and message.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong rhythmic pulse in 'Moses Children', establishing a steady groove that persists throughout.
  • 'Get Up Stand Up' features a call-and-response vocal style, engaging the listener directly in its message.
  • Tracks like 'Follow Fashion Monkey' incorporate playful lyrics and upbeat melodies, contrasting with the more serious themes of other songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • invigorating call to action
  • thoughtful, reflective listening sessions
  • mid-tempo groove explorations

Where this album fits

Career context
In 1977, Bunny Wailer was a key figure in the reggae scene, having already established himself as a member of The Wailers. 'Protest' followed his acclaimed solo debut 'Blackheart Man' and showcased his commitment to social justice through music, solidifying his role as a cultural spokesperson in Jamaica.
Stylistic neighbors
Peter Tosh· Bob Marley· Burning Spear

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Moses Children 5:27
  • 2 Get Up Stand Up 6:16
  • 3 Scheme Of Things 4:16
  • 4 Quit Trying 4:20
  • 5 Follow Fashion Monkey 4:14
  • 6 Wanted Children 5:15
  • 7 Who Feels It 5:44
  • 8 Johnny Too Bad 5:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata