Return of the Super Ape cover

Return of the Super Ape

The Upsetters · 1978

35 min · 10 tracks · reggae

A captivating blend of psychedelic reggae rhythms and experimental soundscapes that push the boundaries of traditional roots music.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Return of the Super Ape — The title track showcases a rich tapestry of layered instrumentation and inventive production techniques that exemplify the album's unique sound.
  • →
    Dyon-Anaswa — Opening with a haunting melody and complex rhythms, this track sets the tone for the album's exploration of spiritual themes through reggae.
  • →
    Jah Jah Ah Natty Dread — This track stands out with its powerful lyrics addressing social issues, paired with an infectious groove that embodies the essence of roots reggae.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

73 /100
Alpine
Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album blends experimental sounds with reggae, showcasing unique compositions and production techniques.

What we noticed

  • The album features extensive use of reverb and echo effects, creating a spacious sound that enhances the psychedelic elements.
  • Tracks often incorporate unconventional instrumentation, such as synthesizers and unusual percussion, which diverges from traditional reggae.
  • Several songs include abrupt tempo changes and unexpected transitions, challenging the listener's expectations of song structure.
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
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
9/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Dyon-Anaswa 3:36
  • 2 Return of the Super Ape 3:37
  • 3 Tell Me Something Good 3:24
  • 4 Bird in Hand 3:22
  • 5 Crab Yars 3:25
  • 6 Jah Jah Ah Natty Dread 3:34
  • 7 Psyche & Trim 3:45
  • 8 The Lion 3:26
  • 9 Huzza a Hana 3:23
  • 10 High Rankin Sammy 3:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata