Released 20 years ago
Reparation
Eddy Grant · 2006
55 min · 13 tracks · pop music
A vibrant fusion of reggae rhythms and pop sensibilities, reflecting social themes through upbeat melodies and conscious lyrics.
Top tracks — play these first
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Concern Number One Start here — This track opens the album with a compelling critique of societal issues, setting the tone for the rest of the record. It combines catchy melodies with poignant lyrics that resonate with contemporary audiences.
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(Gotta Be) Positive — With its infectious chorus and uplifting message, this track exemplifies Grant's signature sound while encouraging resilience amidst struggles. Its positive vibe contrasts with the more serious themes present throughout the album.
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Reparation — The titular track serves as a powerful anthem advocating for justice and acknowledgment of historical wrongs. Its driving beat and earnest lyrics encapsulate Grant's mission to address pressing social issues.
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Jesus Got a Face — This track uniquely blends spiritual imagery with social commentary, inviting listeners to reflect on faith within the context of cultural identity. It showcases Grant’s lyrical depth and musical versatility.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends reggae and pop effectively while addressing social themes, though it doesn't fully stand out in its genre.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a strong reggae beat in 'Concern Number One', setting a rhythmic foundation that persists throughout.
- Tracks like 'Everything Irie' and '(Gotta Be) Positive' feature call-and-response vocal patterns, engaging listeners directly.
- The last three tracks slow down the tempo, creating a reflective mood that contrasts with the earlier upbeat songs.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady rhythmic journey throughout
- uplifting vibes for social reflection
- engaging sing-along moments
- reflective themes of personal growth
- for afternoon relaxation
Maybe skip if you
- prefer immediate gratification tracks
- seek intense, fast-paced experiences
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Showcases continued vitality after a long hiatus, reflecting social themes.
- Themes
- social justice anthems· historical reckoning· cultural identity exploration
- Career context
- Released in 2006, Reparation marked Eddy Grant's return to music after a lengthy hiatus, following his previous album, Highwayman, from 1998. This album showcases Grant's continued commitment to blending genres while addressing socio-political issues, further solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in reggae and pop music.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bob Marley· Toots and the Maytals· Jimmy Cliff
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Reparation
The song shifts from personal reflection to broader societal demands for justice.
This transition effectively amplifies the urgency of its message, moving beyond individual experience to a collective call for acknowledgment and change.
Tracklist
- 1 Concern Number One Start here 4:14
- 2 Everything Irie 3:56
- 3 Everybody Rappin’ 3:33
- 4 (Gotta Be) Positive 3:40
- 5 The Struggle 4:10
- 6 Reparation 4:26
- 7 Ringbang Man 4:03
- 8 Tit for Tat 4:45
- 9 Long Night 4:35
- 10 Going Back Deh 4:33
- 11 Love Weself 4:25
- 12 Free My Soul 4:05
- 13 Jesus Got a Face 5:10
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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