Bob Marley & The Wailers - Exodus: 30th Anniversary Edition

Bob shows why he’s a superstar

Veteran comedian Tommy Trinder had a catch phrase: “You lucky people”. On the evidence of this DVD, audiences who attended The Wailers’ four-night stand at the Rainbow in Finsbury Park in 1977 were lucky indeed, as they witnessed Bob Marley and co at the peak of their form.

Right from the opener, Trench Town Rock, everyone on the Rainbow stage shines in their own way: lead guitarist Junior Marvin in a flashy rock style, bassist Carlton Barrett reserved and immobile as he pumps out powerhouse bass lines, The I-Threes shimmying decorously. But for charisma, Marley is the man: you can’t take your eyes off him as he dances, flails, sings and wails – and nor could the cameraman, who keeps him in shot throughout most of a Marvin lead guitar break.

Only three songs from the Exodus LP are here: Exodus, The Heathen and, lightening the mood, Jammin’. But every song – performed without introductions because they speak for themselves – is riveting, from the wistful No Woman No Cry to the battle cry Get Up Stand Up, in which Marley reaches an incredible, enthralling pitch of emotion.

An evocative tour round Marley’s Nine Miles birthplace and Kingston’s Marley Museum adds value to what is already a compelling release.

4 stars 4 stars 4 stars 4 stars

Universal | 1734453

Reviewed by Mike Atherton
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