Bob Marley and The Wailers – Kaya (2xLP, 45RPM, Analogue Productions)

Kaya, released in 1978, was the tenth studio album by the Jamaican band Bob Marley & The Wailers, comprising tracks recorded alongside those released on the Exodus album. On Kaya, the band continued what has become an unspoken tradition in the evolution of Bob Marley & The Wailers discography — blending western sounds and motifs with the icons and traditions from the very core of Jamaican society.

Released in 1978, Kaya wasn't necessarily made with American tastes in mind, but it was an album that presented a more accessible version of Bob Marley. Lyrically, the songs avoided the political commentary or Rastafarian philosophizing that was at the forefront of Natty Dread and Rastaman Vibration, and instead emphasized tunes about love and ganga, such as "Easy Skanking" and the title cut. And the palpable musical tension that simmered beneath the surface on the Wailers' earlier material gave way to a more laid-back riddim that was more comfortable but a bit less demanding. Kaya presented a gentler and friendlier version of Bob Marley & the Wailers, but it also documented Marley and his group at the peak of their abilities.

Likewise, Kaya could also be easily construed as an open love letter or musical paean to the lifestyle that Marley so eagerly embraced and promoted. Evidence that the spirituality that permeates the Wailers music is real and not lip service.

Now, Analogue Productions presents Kaya in sonic perfection — featured on 180-gram vinyl pressed at 45 RPM at Quality Record Pressings. Housed in a deluxe Old Style Tip-On Jacket from Stoughton Printing.