There are maybe a half dozen 4-CD Marley packages that include alternate takes, interviews with the master, Lee Perry mixes, and so on. I can do w/o most of the side bits. There are other single-CDs that contain a lot of the good early stuff, but you really need at least a double CD to get most of it for a reasonable price.

If you want the essential stuff for a dream-price, this is the one to get. (The title of the set is pretty bad--this is not STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON--but who cares?) And, my gosh, the music itself! I love later Marley, but this early stuff, in my opinion, is the heart of Marley: a bit rough, passionate, defiant, joyful, humane--words fail.

Even if you don't get this particular CD: if you aren't familiar with the early '70s stuff, you've got a pleasant surprise in store for you. Get up, put on your shoes, and go get some early Marley (or stay right there, do some clicking, and buy this disc). Now!


Bob Marley's Music Lives On   April 14, 2005
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

Okay, my uncle Colin gave this to me as a birthday present and he told me jokingly "listen to this everyday." If only I had taken his advice sooner! This cd is absolutely awesome! Bob Marley was and is an fantastic reggae singer and who can ask for more than the original tracks. Definately a deal. (...). I hope this helps someone!


formative years   October 9, 2000
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

I enjoy the music on these CDs. They cheer me up; they make me smile, and as is often the case, they give me something to consider. Juan Hart writes the notes as a history of Bob Marley up to 1973 when, "stranded and broke in England, the Wailers approached Island Records' Chris Blackwell who agreed to record them." The songs on this collection are from the years 1969-73, and they are all good. I prefer the songs from the second CD. The sound is closer to their Island work, and the Wailers seem to have found what was to become their internationally recognized sound. If you are interested in raggae music, or in the early music of Bob Marley, Peter Tosh (nee Macintosh) and Bunny Wailer (nee Neville Linvingston), this CD will be interesting to you.


uplifting and soul-shaking   November 22, 1999
birch
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

this album is a fantastic look into the early days of the wailers, and truly gives a glimpse of pure, raw regge. This album shows just how far bob and the wailers came and how their music matured and changed from their first years of recording. an inspirational piece, truly a gem.


Great early collection.   April 7, 1999
A great two-disk import. I can't tell you how good this set is. It's really a must have for all those who love Bob Marley, or those who want to begin their collection at the beginning. Very reasonable price for all the music that you get.