SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: VARIOUS ARTISTS – BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE (MUSIC INSPIRED BY THE FILM)

VARIOUS ARTISTS
BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE (MUSIC INSPIRED BY THE FILM)
UNIVERSAL MUSIC

In conjunction with the box-office hit, Bob Marley: One Love, the biopic starring Kingsley Ben-Adir as the titular icon, Universal Music has released the companion album. Bob Marley: One Love (Music Inspired By The Film) features seven reinterpretations of Marley’s work by Skip Marley (Bob’s grandson), Leon Bridges, and Kacey Musgraves, among others. Through a collection of covers, One Love is elevated as a powerful tribute above what very easily could have been a soundtrack mirroring that of previously released greatest hits compilations.

One Love opens with Bloody Civilian’s cover of “Natural Mystic”. Led by the exceptionally moody vocals which shines brightest in the song is the subtlety of its arrangement. In between lyrics, a muted electric guitar, absolutely drenched in a glorious Wah pedal, can vaguely be heard while, much later in the song, a flurry of horns appears and within the closing verse, a series of 808’s blare through the soundscape, bringing about a sense of modernity to a cover that feels very faithful. This in itself is what makes One Love such an exciting record: hearing the classic tradition of ‘70s reggae brought forward in time with modern elements demonstrates a timelessness to Marley’s work. His grandson’s club-inspired version of “Exodus” speaks to this especially.

The remaining five songs are no less special. From the soulful laments of Daniel Caesar set to cold synths on “Waiting In Vain” to the neo-reggae sounds of Wizkid’s “One Love” and Jessie Reyez’s “Is This Love”. In addition to Bloody Civilian’s opening track, two songs stand out as strong highlights. The first is Musgrave’s country ballad rendition of “Three Little Birds” led by an acoustic guitar and a gentle lap steel. The second is the closing track from the album, Bridges’ “Redemption Song”, a cover that captures the feeling of emancipation from the original. Bridges’ voice is carried by a gentle tone and makes for a reflective and quiet close.

 One Love feels exceptionally curated for a number of reasons. Firstly, Universal could have tapped some of the biggest of pop stars of our time to work on this project, rather, they sought out significant artists who feel better suited to carry the songwriting of Marley into the 2020’s. There is no detracting from the success or credibility of anyone involved on this project. Beyond that, each track is a masterclass in how to adapt a cover into a unique style, some more traditional while others are entire departures from the original. Ultimately this speaks most to the work of Marley, a catalogue that remains infinitely influential and culturally significant, even forty-three years after his passing. Through this, One Love demonstrates the enduring relevance and power of Marley’s artistry, further establishing him as one of the greatest artists to ever grace popular culture.

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