Essential dub music listening

The albums that define dub music.

Our picks for where to start with dub music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The dub music essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

The Richest Man in Babylon

Thievery Corporation

The Richest Man in Babylon

A rich tapestry of global sounds woven with downtempo beats and lush, laid-back grooves.

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Radio Retaliation

Thievery Corporation

Radio Retaliation

A fusion of downtempo grooves and global influences, creating a soundscape that is both relaxing and politically charged.

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The Cosmic Game

Thievery Corporation

The Cosmic Game

A vibrant fusion of world music rhythms and electronic soundscapes that transports listeners across global musical landscapes.

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Saudade

Thievery Corporation

Saudade

A soothing blend of downtempo grooves and global influences that evoke nostalgia and warmth.

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The Mirror Conspiracy

Thievery Corporation

The Mirror Conspiracy

A seamless blend of global rhythms and chilled beats that transports listeners across cultures and time.

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Culture of Fear

Thievery Corporation

Culture of Fear

A fusion of ethereal melodies and socially conscious themes, enveloped in smooth electronic grooves and dub rhythms.

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Sounds from the Thievery Hi-Fi

Thievery Corporation

Sounds from the Thievery Hi-Fi

A seamless blend of global rhythms, electronic textures, and jazzy undertones creates a sonic tapestry of chill vibes.

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Calling Rastafari

Burning Spear

Calling Rastafari

A rich tapestry of roots reggae infused with dub echoes and spiritually resonant themes.

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UB40

UB40

UB40

A vibrant blend of reggae grooves and pop sensibilities infused with socially conscious lyrics.

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Mek We Dweet

Burning Spear

Mek We Dweet

A vibrant fusion of deep reggae grooves and socially conscious lyrics that resonate with cultural pride.

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Jah Kingdom

Burning Spear

Jah Kingdom

A vibrant blend of roots reggae and spiritual fervor, echoing the rich cultural heritage of Jamaica.

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Promises and Lies

UB40

Promises and Lies

A vibrant mix of reggae grooves and pop melodies infused with lyrical storytelling and soulful vocals.

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Live in South Africa 2000

Burning Spear

Live in South Africa 2000

A vibrant celebration of roots reggae, blending soulful melodies with powerful socio-political messages.

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Labour of Love III

UB40

Labour of Love III

A vibrant fusion of reggae, pop, and dub that exudes warmth and nostalgia throughout its melodic explorations.

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Labour of Love II

UB40

Labour of Love II

A vibrant blend of reggae rhythms and smooth pop melodies, radiating warmth and nostalgia.

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Marcus Garvey

Burning Spear

Marcus Garvey

A deep exploration of social consciousness set to hypnotic rhythms and soulful melodies.

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Jah Is Real

Burning Spear

Jah Is Real

A meditative exploration of faith and social justice wrapped in soothing reggae rhythms and soulful melodies.

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Appointment with His Majesty

Burning Spear

Appointment with His Majesty

A vibrant fusion of traditional reggae rhythms and spiritual themes, enriched by Burning Spear's distinctive vocal delivery.

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Labour of Love

UB40

Labour of Love

A vibrant blend of reggae grooves and heartfelt melodies that celebrate love and resilience.

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Guns in the Ghetto

UB40

Guns in the Ghetto

A vibrant blend of reggae grooves and heartfelt pop melodies intertwine across reflective narratives.

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Time Boom X De Devil Dead

Lee "Scratch" Perry

Time Boom X De Devil Dead

An adventurous blend of dub, reggae, and early jungle rhythms layered with Perry's surreal vocal improvisations.

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Baggariddim

UB40

Baggariddim

A vibrant fusion of reggae rhythms and pop sensibilities, reflecting UB40's signature sound with playful lyricism.

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Geffery Morgan…

UB40

Geffery Morgan…

A vibrant blend of reggae grooves and soulful melodies, infused with UB40's signature dub influences.

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Rat in the Kitchen

UB40

Rat in the Kitchen

A vibrant fusion of reggae grooves and pop sensibilities, infused with socially conscious lyrics.

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