Right Time cover

Released 50 years ago

Right Time

Mighty Diamonds · 1976

31 min · 10 tracks · reggae

A vibrant tapestry of harmonies and rhythms, blending soulful melodies with socially conscious lyrics in classic reggae style.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Right Time Start here — The title track encapsulates the essence of the album with its uplifting melody and affirming lyrics about seizing opportunities, serving as a rallying cry for listeners.
  • →
    Why Me Black Brother Why — This track powerfully addresses themes of racial identity and injustice, resonating deeply with audiences and showcasing the band's commitment to social commentary.
  • →
    Have Mercy — A poignant call for compassion amidst societal struggles, this song highlights the group's signature vocal harmonies while conveying an urgent message.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album features strong harmonies and socially relevant lyrics, making it a notable entry in reggae's rich tapestry.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a title track that sets a mid-tempo groove, followed by a series of songs that maintain a consistent rhythmic feel throughout.
  • Harmonies are layered prominently in the vocal arrangements, often featuring call-and-response patterns between the lead and backing vocals.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

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

  • short bursts of reflection
  • thought-provoking lyrical themes
  • uplifting melodies for gatherings
  • easy listening for daily tasks
  • quick, engaging musical statements

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking lengthy introspective journeys
  • prefer high-energy dance tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album established their prominence in reggae, reflecting socio-political themes.
Career context
Released in 1976, Right Time is the Mighty Diamonds' second studio album, following their debut, The Mighty Diamonds. At this point in their career, they were establishing themselves as prominent voices in reggae music, known for their smooth vocal harmonies and poignant lyrics addressing social issues.
Stylistic neighbors
The Abyssinians· Burning Spear· Black Uhuru

Tracklist

  • 1 Right Time Start here 3:16
  • 2 Why Me Black Brother Why 3:09
  • 3 Shame and Pride 3:20
  • 4 Gnashing of Teeth 3:06
  • 5 Them Never Love Poor Marcus 2:44
  • 6 I Need a Roof 2:50
  • 7 Go Seek Your Rights 3:29
  • 8 Have Mercy 3:18
  • 9 Natural Natty 2:48
  • 10 Africa 3:10

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata