Not many songs showcase Lee “Scratch” Perry’s self-identification as a mad guy like this. His dress sense and interviews are both very unique, to say the least. His music, idiosyncratic to the point of existing in a league of its own.
The song in question is a tripped out reggae tune, with suitably nonsensical lyrics and a surprising catchy combo of odd guitar sounds, organ skanks, and dread bass. It adds up to a pretty spectacular display of psychedelic sounds.
The track does have religious overtones, at least as far as I can tell. Perry’s singing is quite distinctive, with a softly spoken, crusty speech. But it is quite hard to understand, even if it does sound good!
“I Am A Madman” appears on Battle Of Armagideon (Millionaire Liquidator),released in 1986. As you can see, the cover art is as cryptic as you could want…