Released 50 years ago
Super Ape
The Upsetters · 1976
38 min · 10 tracks · reggae
A deep exploration of rhythm and space, merging ethereal dub effects with organic reggae grooves.
Top tracks — play these first
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Zion's Blood — The opening track sets a meditative tone with its hypnotic rhythms and spiritual undertones, encapsulating the essence of the album's thematic journey.
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Croaking Lizard — This track features distinctive sound effects and a playful vibe, showcasing The Upsetters' ability to blend humor with intricate musicality.
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Dread Lion — With its powerful bassline and commanding presence, this track exemplifies the strength of Perry's production style while highlighting themes of resilience and identity.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Innovative production techniques and unique sound make this a standout in the dub genre.
What we noticed
- The album features extensive use of reverb and echo effects, creating a spacious sound that emphasizes the rhythm section.
- Tracks often blend instrumental sections with vocal snippets, allowing for a fluid transition between melody and atmosphere.
- Several tracks incorporate unconventional structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and layered soundscapes that challenge traditional song forms.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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9/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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9/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Defined its genre or moment. 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
- immersive auditory experience
- deep bass for headphone detail
- meditative grooves for focus
Maybe skip if you
- seeking fast-paced excitement
- prefering standalone tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1976, Super Ape marked a significant phase in The Upsetters' career as they solidified their reputation as pioneers of dub music. Produced by Lee 'Scratch' Perry, this album followed their earlier work with the renowned producer, showcasing their experimental sound at a time when reggae was gaining international prominence.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Wailers· King Tubby· Burning Spear
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Super Ape
The moment shifts from a direct address to a broader commentary on societal issues, reflecting the duality of personal and communal struggles.
This structural choice transitions the focus from individual experience to collective consciousness, enhancing the song's impact within the context of socio-political commentary.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Zion's Blood 3:58
- 2 Croaking Lizard 3:28
- 3 Black Vest 4:42
- 4 Underground 2:58
- 5 Curly Dub 4:15
- 6 Dread Lion 4:33
- 7 Three in One 3:40
- 8 Patience 3:52
- 9 Dub Along 3:13
- 10 Super Ape 3:49
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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