The best Dub Music albums
of the 1980s.
Where to start with 1980–1989 dub music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1980s — dub music
Top picks from 1980–1989, ranked by where we would start.
UB40
Labour of Love II
A vibrant blend of reggae rhythms and pop melodies, infused with heartfelt vocals that evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
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UB40
Present Arms
An infectious blend of reggae rhythms and socially conscious lyrics, layered with dub influences and pop sensibilities.
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Burning Spear
The Fittest of the Fittest
A vibrant fusion of roots reggae and dub that pulses with spiritual depth and social commentary.
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Bill Laswell
Hear No Evil
An immersive blend of dub textures and jazz improvisation, creating a sonic landscape that is both meditative and experimental.
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Bill Laswell
Baselines
A seamless blend of dub rhythms and jazz improvisation creates an immersive soundscape that challenges conventional music boundaries.
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Augustus Pablo
Rising Sun
Ethereal melodica melodies intertwine with deep, resonant bass lines, creating a meditative soundscape that defines classic dub reggae.
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Augustus Pablo
Earth's Rightful Ruler
A celestial blend of echoing melodies and deep rhythmic grooves, invoking spiritual themes through masterful dub production.
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Burning Spear
Mistress Music
A vibrant blend of roots reggae rhythms with socially conscious lyrics and lush instrumentation that invites reflection and celebration.
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Lee "Scratch" Perry
Battle of Armagideon
Eclectic rhythms and surrealist lyrics collide in a vibrant tapestry of reggae, dub, and experimental soundscapes.
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Lee "Scratch" Perry
History, Mystery & Prophesy
A kaleidoscopic fusion of reggae, dub, and mysticism that invites listeners into Lee Perry's sonic universe.
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Maxi Priest
Maxi
A blend of smooth reggae melodies and soulful vocals that capture the essence of late '80s romantic yearning.
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Muslimgauze
Abu Nidal
A haunting blend of ambient textures and pulsating rhythms, reflecting political turmoil through experimental soundscapes.
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Big Youth
The Chanting Dread Inna Fine Style
A vibrant tapestry of Jamaican reggae infused with dynamic spoken word and rich, resonant dub effects.
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Muslimgauze
Triptych E.P
A haunting blend of industrial noise and ambient textures that immerses listeners in a politically charged soundscape.
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Prince Far I
Jamaican Heroes
A deep exploration of spiritual and social themes, woven through haunting melodies and rhythmic dub soundscapes.
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Prince Far I
Cry Tuff Dub Encounter Chapter 3
A mesmerizing exploration of deep basslines and echoing rhythms that redefine the essence of dub music.
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Scientist
Scientist Meets the Space Invaders
A cosmic journey through dub soundscapes, blending futuristic themes with rhythmic basslines and echoing effects.
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Scientist
Scientist Encounters Pac-Man
A playful fusion of dub rhythms and electronic sounds, echoing the arcade culture of early 1980s video games.
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