Essential 1970s dub music

The best Dub Music albums of the 1970s.

Where to start with 1970–1979 dub music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 1970s — dub music

Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.

Studio One Presents Burning Spear

Burning Spear

Studio One Presents Burning Spear

Soulful melodies intertwine with vibrant rhythms, creating a rich tapestry of roots reggae infused with spiritual and cultural depth.

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King Tubby Meets Rockers Uptown

Augustus Pablo

King Tubby Meets Rockers Uptown

A transformative blend of echo-laden rhythms and haunting melodica that redefined the landscape of reggae and dub music.

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Ital Dub

Augustus Pablo

Ital Dub

A hypnotic blend of reverb-drenched rhythms and melodica melodies that define the essence of early dub music.

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Dry & Heavy

Burning Spear

Dry & Heavy

A powerful blend of deep roots reggae and dub that resonates with spiritual themes and social consciousness.

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Skylarking

Horace Andy

Skylarking

A lush blend of reggae rhythms and soulful melodies, embodying the spirit of 1970s Jamaican music.

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Roast Fish Collie Weed & Corn Bread

Lee "Scratch" Perry

Roast Fish Collie Weed & Corn Bread

A vibrant blend of reggae grooves and playful dub effects, drenched in the essence of Jamaican culture.

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War Ina Babylon

Max Romeo

War Ina Babylon

'War Ina Babylon' represents a pivotal moment in reggae history, showcasing Max Romeo's unique ability to fuse storytelling with captivating melodies. The album balances upbeat tracks with reflective themes, offering a comprehensive view of his artistry.

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Dreadlocks Dread

Big Youth

Dreadlocks Dread

A vibrant tapestry of reggae rhythms and toasting vocals that weave social commentary with infectious grooves.

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Screaming Target

Big Youth

Screaming Target

A vibrant fusion of reggae rhythms and poignant lyrical storytelling, underscored by Big Youth's distinctive vocal style.

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Cry Tuff Dub Encounter Chapter 1

Prince Far I

Cry Tuff Dub Encounter Chapter 1

A mesmerizing blend of deep bass, echoing rhythms, and haunting vocals that transport listeners into a meditative soundscape.

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Free from Sin

Prince Far I

Free from Sin

A deep, resonant exploration of faith and societal reflection, layered with hypnotic rhythms and Prince Far I's commanding voice.

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