Released 40 years ago
Rising Sun
Augustus Pablo · 1986
36 min · 10 tracks · reggae
Ethereal melodica melodies intertwine with deep, resonant bass lines, creating a meditative soundscape that defines classic dub reggae.
Top tracks — play these first
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Dub Wiser Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its intricate layers of echo and reverb, highlighting Pablo's mastery of dub techniques.
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Rising Sun — 'Rising Sun' features a captivating melodica riff that captures the essence of hope and renewal, emblematic of Pablo's artistic vision.
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The Day Before the Riot — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics and haunting melodies, reflecting societal tensions while maintaining a deeply meditative quality.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's unique melodica sound and atmospheric production contribute to its distinct place in reggae and dub.
What we noticed
- Tracks often employ reverb and echo effects, creating a spacious sound that enhances the meditative quality of the music.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 rhythmic journey throughout
- ethereal sounds for deep relaxation
- for afternoon unwinding
- vibrant background for social gatherings
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification tracks
- prefer standalone singles only
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Marks a return to form after a hiatus, revitalizing interest in his sound.
- Themes
- meditative soundscapes· societal tensions· melodica-driven hope
- Career context
- Released in 1986, 'Rising Sun' was Augustus Pablo's first album after a five-year hiatus, marking a return to his signature melodica-driven sound. At this point in his career, he was already a respected figure in the roots reggae and dub scenes, having gained recognition for his earlier works like 'King Tubby Meets the Rockers Uptown'.
- Stylistic neighbors
- King Tubby· Scientist· Mad Professor
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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The Day Before the Riot
A shift from reflective verses to an urgent chorus mirrors escalating tensions in society.
The dynamic change in energy emphasizes the urgency of the message, making it a powerful commentary on social issues.
Tracklist
- 1 Dub Wiser Start here 3:14
- 2 Hop I Land 3:49
- 3 Rising Sun 3:33
- 4 Fire Red 3:26
- 5 Jah Wind 3:19
- 6 Pipers of Zion 3:58
- 7 The Day Before the Riot 3:54
- 8 African Frontline 3:10
- 9 Melchesedec (The High Priest) 3:35
- 10 Signs and Wonders 4:16
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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