Bob Marley Reissues Coming On LP, SACD and Reel-To-Reel
A huge slate of new Bob Marley music reissues is on its way thanks to Acoustic Sounds and the Marley estate. In commemoration for what would have been Bob’s 80th birthday, six albums will be reissued in a variety of formats including vinyl, SACD and the very rare reel-to-reel tapes (15 IPS on 1/4 inch tape). Acoustic Sounds Analog Productions actually has a small selection of reel-to-reel options already, but the Ultra High Quality Recording (UHQR) version on vinyl should adequately cover the fidelity for the more mainstream analog audiophile as well. Chances are if you actually own a reel-to-reel machine, you are probably already familiar with Acoustic Sounds’ catalog, as albums in that format tend to be extremely hard to come by (without a off-the-books studio hookup).
Full format release and album list is available in the press release below. Pre order available here, shipping in spring 2025.
“Acoustic Sounds Announces Ambitious Slate of Bob Marley Reissues In Celebration of Global Icon’s 80th Birthday
Classic Marley Albums Will be Available via Analogue Productions in a Variety of Configurations, Including 33rpm UHQR, 45rpm UHQR, 2LP 45rpm, SACD & Reel-To-Reel Tape
Coming Spring 2025, Pre-Order HERE
Join Acoustic Sounds Founder Chad Kassem on His Journey to Jamaica and Explore the Magic of Marley — Watch HERE
February 6, 2025 – Today, in celebration of what would have been Bob Marley’s 80th birthday, Acoustic Sounds’ Analogue Productions label has joined forces with the Marley family and Tuff Gong International to proudly announce an ambitious slate of reissues of several of the global legend’s most iconic albums in a number of deluxe configurations. Centered around the theme of Uprising, the series will honor Marley’s spirit and legacy as one of the most significant artists of the 20th century.
Launching in Spring 2025 with specific release dates to be announced, the series will include seven classic Marley titles reissued in a variety of formats: 33rpm UHQR, 45rpm UHQR, 2LP 45rpm, SACD, and reel-to-reel tape (15 IPS on 1/4 inch tape). The configurations vary by title, see below for details.
Each of the Ultra High Quality Record (UHQR) and 2LP 45rpm releases will be sourced from original master tapes and meticulously mastered by Ryan Smith at Sterling Sound. Pressing will be handled by Acoustic Sounds’ world-class Quality Record Pressing plant in Salina, KS, to deliver exceptional sound quality and a listening experience worthy of Marley’s timeless music. Bringing forty years of expertise and unparalleled reverence for historic releases to the series, these Analogue Productions titles will ensure Bob Marley’s music is preserved in its purest form, all while delivering an experience as close as possible to the original studio sessions.
“We’re honored to be working with the Marley Family to give these records the treatment they deserve,” said Acoustic Sounds founder Chad Kassem. “The experience of going to Jamaica, visiting Tuff Gong, and meeting the people carrying Bob Marley’s legacy forward was incredible, and we believe this series is a beautiful tribute to one of music’s greatest innovators.” Kassem shares more about his time in Jamaica and the making of Uprising HERE.
The UHQR format from Analogue Productions/Quality Record Pressings sets a new standard in vinyl, surpassing previous UHQR records with innovative manufacturing techniques that meet Kassem’s exacting expectations. Originally produced at Japan’s JVC plant in the 1980s for various audiophile labels, UHQRs were costly but revered for their unmatched quality. Reviving the UHQR name required significant investment and a complete redesign of vinyl production, solidifying its legacy as the ultimate LP, elevating it above any other pressing series.
BOB MARLEY RELEASES LAUNCHING SPRING 2025 FROM ANALOGUE PRODUCTIONS:
Catch a Fire (1973), featuring “Stir It Up,” “Concrete Jungle,” and “Kinky Reggae.” This album will be available as a 1LP UHQR @33rpm, 2LP UHQR @45rpm, reel-to-reel, and SACD.
Burnin’ (1973), Marley’s sixth album and the second release by Bob Marley & The Wailers for Island Records, continues the series. The record features “Get Up Stand Up,” “I Shot The Sheriff,” and “Burnin’ & Lootin’.” Available as 1LP UHQR @33rpm, 2LP UHQR @45rpm, reel-to-reel, and SACD.
Natty Dread (1974), Marley’s groundbreaking album that introduced the I-Threes and a new musical direction, includes “No Woman No Cry,” “Them Belly Full (But We Hungry),” and “Lively Up Yourself.” The reissue will be released as a 1LP UHQR @33rpm, 2LP UHQR @45rpm, reel-to-reel, and SACD.
Rastaman Vibration (1976) followed the success of Natty Dread and features politically charged tracks like “Roots Rock Reggae,” “War,” and “Rat Race.” It will be reissued in 2LP UHQR @45rpm, reel-to-reel, and SACD configurations.
Exodus (1977), widely regarded as one of Marley’s most transformative works, features classic hits like “Three Little Birds,” “Jamming,” and “One Love.” This album, recorded during Marley’s exile in the U.K., cemented his status as a global superstar. It will be reissued as a 2LP UHQR @45rpm, reel-to-reel, and SACD.
Kaya (1978) recorded simultaneously with Exodus in the U.K., showcases a softer side of Marley, with songs such as “Is This Love,” “Satisfy My Soul,” and “Easy Skanking.” A love letter to the lifestyle Marley embraced, this album will be available in 2LP @45rpm and SACD configurations.
Uprising (1980), the last studio album released during Marley’s lifetime, reflects a deeply spiritual and prophetic vision. Tracks such as “Redemption Song,” “Could You Be Loved,” and “Pimper’s Paradise” highlight Marley’s artistry and message of resilience. This album will be reissued in 2LP @45rpm and SACD formats.
Acoustic Sounds has created a masterfully-crafted and meticulous series through which listeners can relive these celebrated classics. For over forty years, Acoustic Sounds has championed the art of vinyl, reissuing historic recordings with the utmost care and precision. Other recent releases include Steely Dan’s 1970s recordings, Buena Vista Social Club’s self titled album, and Miles Davis’ Birth of the Blue with many more exciting releases on the horizon.”