Biggup and LOVE to one of.... simply one of the finest labels and producers that we have EVER had the privilege of covering in the history of these pages, Oneness Records, who is back with their latest creation, the Latin spined (I like that. "Spined") Unidad Riddim. Simply for what it is, the Unidad may just be one of the finest compositions that Oneness has ever brought forth (and if you've followed them to any degree, you can appreciate how big of a statement that is) (and if you haven't - they're excellent) and, fittingly (for the most part) and what they've done with it, in placing it in the hands of Spanish speaking vocalists, was an excellent touch. Somewhere in there is an infectious BOUNCE. The things surrounding it definitely add to the vibes and add originality and uniqueness to it, but you Reggae head, will definitely be able to tune it in and you will adore what you find.
Listening through this one, I was introduced to a few talented names who I'd never come across previously and should probably keep an ear on going forward such as Raggabund (whose name I'd come across before but I'd never heard anything from them), the cool named Dactah Chando from out of Spain, Brazil's scalding Jhayam & Srta. Paola [FLAMES!], perhaps most notably Spaniard, Afaz Natural (whose 'Verdadero Amor' ['True Heart'), is excellent) and others still. It's also a major credit to Oneness for linking oft-collaborator Umberto Echo, who is ABSOLUTELY MASTERFUL on his dub version of the Unidad Riddim. About three minutes into it (2:51 to be exact), Echo LEVELS UP with a... whatever that is, lasting for about twenty seconds during one of the most scintillating moments you'll find on the Unidad (Umberto Echo also takes a production credit for every offering here, so he may've actually built the Unidad Riddim).
Still, the lion's share of my attention was well focused on the opening selection, 'Un Mejor Mañana' which links Morodo from out of Spain with a young [Grammy Nominated], up and coming singer from Germany by the name of SARA LUGO. The duo provides the riddim with an undeniable signature moment (with respect to Echo) with their very difficult to shake effort.
It's 2024. It's the Unidad Riddim. It's Oneness Records & Sara Lugo -- just like old times -- and every thing can feel right in the world, DOES.
"Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer" by Mark Wonder [Yutman Records]
Thank you! Thank you so much! Call 2023 the gift that keeps giving as it has just been erupting with damn strong Reggae releases within just its very first third and here is another. Back with a new set to add to the fun this year is Achis Reggae favourite, the magnificently wondrous Mark Wonder with a very solid EP, "Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer", courtesy of one Jon Moon & Yutman Records from out of Berlin, Germany. This is interesting because (so many things), not too long ago, at all we came across a tune the vocalist had done for Yutman by the name of 'Urgency', which was typical excellence from Wonder (more on it in just a second) and a few weeks on from it, another fine single by the name of 'For the Reason' (more on it coming too.... just keep reading) would follow. I had no clue that Dragon Slayer and Yutman were working on a [semi] full release but they've tacked on three more tunes, added an acoustic cut of 'For the Reason' and three dubs and here we have "Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer". BOOM! I don't think I ever thought that I'd arrive at this point; but if I'm just thinking openly right now about my absolute favourite artists to listen to right now, Mark Wonder's name would be on that list and it has probably been for the past decade or so, really. I've said it before, he just makes a brand of CLEAN Roots music which resonates with me more and more as I get older. Therefore, anything the man does, even a new single (and he does have a new one, 'This Time', on the Costamaica Riddim), is going to get my full attention and though it hasn't been a terribly long time since his last release -- 2020's "Remz Of The Dragon Slayer" -- "Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer" definitely comes as a welcome surprise!
Let me tell you something, quickly, about "Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer": Its music is absolutely exquisite! I do not know much of Yutman's past, but looking through their catalogue, they have worked alongside the likes of Lutan Fyah, Uwe Banton, Crosby, Vido Jelashe and maybe one or two others with whom our readers may be familiar (like Jahcoustix) and with sounds like this, I'm hoping they continue to spread the love. 'Urgency' was sublime and while it just may be the best overall song here, there is very impressive work on the other selections as well. For example?? Check the bar of gold which opens things here, 'Controlled Hypocrisy'. The riddim behind this one is candy. It is a sugary sweet joy for your ears! I've had so much fun working my way through this tune --in part because at every step that riddim is there playing a great supporting role-- and where I stand with it these days is that Mark Wonder is calling for a return to the way things used to be done, going forward. He makes it a point to not only criticize current dealings, but to also lift up figures from yesteryear ['Saluting the great warriors: The Resistance. They lay the foundation. The rock I & I stand on"] for laying a proper foundation which we have steered away from. Regardless of where you stand on it, in regards to its direction, I think we'll all agree on its quality being extremely high. The same could be said for 'African People', a song that immediately made me damn excited to see that track #8 on "Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer" was listed as 'African People - Dub', because I thought that, given its sound, it would make for a particularly impressive piece of dub. As for the original tune, here, take a listen.
Reggae music, wonderfully, has always been an artform which has made the point of pushing PRIDE into people of African descent. There have been an endless number of songs on the topic and 'African People' has to be one of the strongest ones that I've heard lately on the topic. 'Power for the People' touches Yutman's hefty More Fyah Riddim from a few years back (the little bassy intro on that riddim is.... just cool) and it is just a strong commentary on the state of times. If I am being critical here: The one thing I didn't like was the fact that 'Power for the People' is the only track on "Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer" sans a mix. You hear that riddim and think about how nice a dub of it might've been and you really want to hear it (and you also can't get the instrumental on the original More Fyah Riddim compilation). Outside of that, however, I'm having a very difficult time finding something to complain about here.
"Never want to engage the people in conversation
Don't even give a damn about their plight
Economical strategies, political monopoly
An orchestrated plan put into motion
More power for the people!
More power for the people I say!"
As we mentioned, 'For the Reason' was the second single released ahead of 'Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer" and its presence here comes alongside a streamlined acoustic version of the tune as well. Both are not only lovely but come in with a decidedly different type of vibes for this release before ascending into a piece which really just makes you feel good! As I've said in the past, there is a certain value in that. We listen to music for a variety of reasons and we appreciate it for many as well so, when you find yourself going through a list of songs and you get to that one that is going to immediately bring a smile to your face, it tends to stick with you. That was 'For the Reason' for me! I hesitate to call it a 'love song' in the typical way that phrase is used because it registers (for me, at least) as more of a general empowering/motivational type of composition. It hit me more of in a broad way saying that this is something attainable for people (women in particular) - having someone look up to you in this way. Regardless, 'For the Reason' is gorgeous! Musically, the acoustic pass is a very nice change of pace and, again, both are just nice to hear.
As for the aforementioned 'Urgency': Yes, it is the finest piece of work that "Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer" has to offer in altogether and you could very well make the case that it is Mark Wonder's finest selection in some time (which is saying a lot given both his quality and consistency). 'Urgency' is a downright STUNNING to call to action and it has this... pull to it which isn't of an overly aggressive or hype nature, but it has such a powerfully attractive charm to it that, if 'Urgency' doesn't make you feel like doing better or being better then I'm jealous, because clearly you are either perfect or damn close to it and simply have no room for improvement like the rest of us. Wonder seems to appeal more to your common sense than your emotions at first before just grabbing all of you by song's end ["If you don't see, got to wake up from your sleep"]. While the best dub you will hear on this project is 'African People - Dub', both the drum heavy 'Controlled Hypocrisy - Dub' and the brilliantly streamlined 'Urgency - Dub' are outstanding as well. It's the latter which really grabs me because it almost makes for a kind of a moody vibes and an experience quite different from the original track but, again, all three of the dub versions will reach a whole heap of satisfied listeners in my opinion (and I may change my mind about the best of the lot if I keep listening to 'Controlled Hypocrisy - Dub'.... DAMN!) and it was just a really good idea from Moon and company, which includes Ganjaman, who is credited on 'Controlled Hypocrisy - Dub'.
Overall, yes of course I want to write more but I promised myself that I would attempt to do a more standard write-up for this one and that next thing that we're doing, but if you've been paying attention to the output of Mark Wonder lately (or at any time during his career, really), then you know precisely the level of work he is capable of and "Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer" is definitely more of the same. To my ears, his work always comes through with a certain level of class and refinement and this set is saturated in both. It also helps that the Dragon Slayer (and according to the press material I read on this one, apparently this may be the last time he adopts that moniker) (LONG LIVE THE DRAGON SLAYER!) is provided with t op class music throughout and while Yutman Records may not exactly be a 'household name' in the genre, a few more outings like this one may go a long way in changing that. Outstanding.
Elder. Music and time can make for a very interesting pairing. While surely a study best left for the end of an artist's career or even life, attempting to put them into some sort of category based on how much time they've given to the music and the status that they have achieved in doing so almost always yields surprising results - at least for me. When you really begin to dig into someone's catalogue and the accolades that they've received, what you will often see is that someone who, perhaps, you didn't look at in such a way is far more than just a.... tried and trusted veteran while maybe it's time to FINALLY began to shed that 'up and comer' label in others (biggup Chronixx). This can be true in both the absolute grandest of situations and at the most basic of base levels as well as, with virtually anyone at all, what you are likely to find is even a small following who has an EXTREME level of devotion to the artist and, within that group (regardless of the size), that particular individual's status is immeasurable, as is their impact. On a higher level, on the other hand, things can be shocking. In the scope of looking at catalogues, especially, let's focus on someone such as Sizzla Kalonji. Now well into his forties and an oft and apt recipient of titles 'veteran' and 'star' (as he has been of both for the majority of the past decade and a half or so) and many variations of both ("grizzled veteran" - "superstar"), if ever you simply go and check the sheer AMOUNT of work that man has done, what you will find is someone who -- and I have absolutely no statistics to back this up -- may have an actual case for having voiced more songs than almost anyone in the history of the genre. When all is said in done in Sizzla's case, we will at least remember him for a staggering level of hyperactivity during and before his prime years and, presumably (as it would seem), well into his later years as well. Regardless of what you think of the actual work, his contribution on the quantity side is very difficult to match and it is a credit he has already being paid these days. Another good example would be someone like Bounty Killer. Despite (and maybe even BECAUSE of) his lyrical penchant for extreme violence (and he is neither the only one nor the MOST vicious) (biggup Mad Cobra), the Killer is arguably the most influential star the Dancehall has ever produced as it often seems as if an entire generation of DJ's and singers (including the occasional female) grew up wanting to be the anti-hero that Bounty Killer was.... and still is.
2002 & 2004 [Absolute genius - both of them]
Now when you take this a little further, you can run into some even more interesting cases, one of which we're going to focus on today. I steered this review in this direction especially because when I first noticed that German superstar, Gentleman, was releasing a new album it took me down a road of thinking that, though I may not be his biggest fan and I may not have hung on his every word throughout the years (my mistake, not his) (well I was busy!), Gentleman has made a SERIOUS contribution to not only German and European Reggae, but the entire genre, as a whole, as well. When you think of his more modern continental contemporaries, you think of a very select group of people which includes the likes of Maxi Priest and.... Alborosie (someone else who has had a career which would well be interesting to take a look at such as this one).... Lloyd Brown?? Even if I am missing one or two (and I surely am), it's a very thin list of European artists who have reached that level stardom and/or impact and contribution to the music and you could well make the case that Gentleman's name should be at the top of that list.
On a personal level, I will always lean on the fact that I can recall hearing his name before I had music with which I directly associated the work. There's a fairly good chance that the very first time I actually heard Gentleman's music -- knowing that it was his work -- was when I'd finally become curious enough to take a listen and it may have just been on what was his second release, 2002's "Journey To Jah". That set was EXCELLENT throughout (and declared a Modern Classic here), but it would be topped IMMEDIATELY on the strength of one of the greatest albums I have ever heard, "Confidence", just two years later. Maybe it will say something that when we came up with the idea to do the 'Modern Classics' series, it would only take until number four to include "Confidence" ["Intoxication of a certain kiiiind"]. It is simply one of the finest albums that I have ever heard and it is nearly twenty years old and Gentleman did not call it a career there. I like to look back at "Confidence" as a point where Gentleman's career hit the proverbial next level in terms of the entire world taking a greater look and what was to come was more stellar output. Full ALBUMS worth of work on projects such as "Another Intensity", "Diversity" and "New Day Dawn" would further keep me interested and while we were away on hiatus the artist, born Otto Tillmann, would continue his substantial works in dropping a number of projects including 2020's interesting "Blaue Stunde", which was an album completely in his native German and 2016's solid "Conversations", a combination project alongside Ky-Mani Marley (a few big tunes on that album but especially 'Jah Guide Over Us' and 'Red Town'). Now, in late 2022, Gentleman sets forth his latest creation, "Mad World". Although it did have just a bit in the way of pre-release hype, I actually don't recall hearing a great deal about this project just ahead of it materializing, but after it did reach, we've heard quite a bit of early response to the surprise of absolutely no one (he did have singles for it but, when they released, I wasn't under the impression that THIS was forthcoming) (although, in retrospect, I definitely should have been). At his best, Gentleman makes a very 'standout-ish' brand of Reggae music. It is both very easily digestible by newer fans as well as heavy enough for more seasoned listeners. It's also typically fairly melodic and just pleasing to listen to as well. The full results, as I've said, can be sublime and down right CRUCIAL and it is simply what you have come to expect from the now forty-seven year old artist over the course of the past couple of decades or so. I was thinking about that when I started: We've been listening to Gentleman's music for more than TWENTY YEARS now. He's certainly not alone, but he isn't usually someone who I look at in the same way as I do others with whom I am SO familiar. Gentleman kind of does his own thing and he does it marvelously as, perhaps, one of the greatest to do ever, PERIOD, as well as being one of the genuine big men of European Reggae music.
So when that individual does.... anything at all, it is a very big deal and his latest set is not an exception. If you're either a new fan of his or just a Reggae fan, in general, "Mad World" (like most of Gentleman's work), will have something for you. As a whole, it very much follows (most) of his previous full efforts in its sound (he will occasionally try different things and mix up the vibes) and, in my opinion, by its end, "Mad World" definitely ranks amongst his very best. The project comes officially via URBAN, a division of major, Universal, yet another testament to the artist's popularity. Should you require even more proof or explanation, check the opener of Gentleman's latest big creation, "Mad World", the AIRY 'Defining Love'. YOU WILL LIKE THIS SONG. That's it. It requires nothing in the way of conditions, quantifications or qualifications: I am certain you will enjoy it. The track finds Gentleman attempting to implant quite a bit more LOVE in.... pretty much everywhere. This is aided by a SWEET Jugglerz produced vibe (Jugglerz has a hand on virtually all of "Mad World") as artist, label and whoever else EASILY puts one of the best feet forward to open the album. Things only rise from there as 'Over The Hills' is an even stronger offering. This previous single (which may've been the first tune that I ever heard from what turned out to be "Mad World"; probably from over the summer) has such wonderful pull to it. It is highly infectious and you won't get through much of it at all without singing along (probably just until you learn the words).
"I've got to find me some peace of mind
Over the hills and valleys mi ah climb
All where rules are clearly defined, by Nature
Si wanna be inna di hills a where di birds dem singing
Tired of di city, where di gunshots ringing
Hype after hype a weh di artists flinging
SOUL AH RUN DRY. MI NEED SOME REFILLING
Mi ready fi di walk, ready fi clean up mi thought
Back inna mi medi, leave di poison dart
Everybody round ya act so wise and smart
MI READY FI A BRAND NEW START
So woman mek wi pack up wi things and gwaan
And plant some trees pon di farm
Come mek wi pack our things and gwaan
Calm after storm"
The song finds our star... really just needing a break from everything and some time to refocus (and maybe write a few new songs). I can imagine the type of trip (whether physical or mental) Gentleman took on to come up with this tune; whatever it was, the results were surely successful on a genuine highlight from "Mad World". We get an early spot of fire next up via another single, 'Fight For No Reason'. It sounds absolutely nothing like it at all, but for some reason this piece reminds me of 'Leave Us Alone' from the aforementioned "Journey To Jah" set ["Some boy mussi sick inna dem head - burn down bridges and build walls instead"]. That song was a bit on the heavier side and, while this one does have its moments, it's almost more of a Hip-Hoppish type of pulse at its core. However you wish to describe it, I found a nice place of substance with this one on a smaller, more specific, level. On the grand scale you take this one to VIOLENCE or WAR, I suppose, with a more political outlook. For me, however, I took it more definitively. Do you know anyone who just likes to argue and pick fights with people? Or maybe more than one who're just.... constantly bitching at one another (and I don't mean that delightful old couple you know who is always yelling at each other)? 'Fight For No Reason', AT LEAST FOR ME, also rings true for them. You do not want to be that nasty, judgmental creature who always has something negative to say and Gentleman wants you to know that you don't have to be him or her and he's right. Rounding out the first lot of tunes is the very fun and colourful 'Can't Lock The Dance'. Because he is contractually obligated to appear on every single album that I listen to ever, this tune features the inescapable Stonebwoy (I don't know how true this is, but it must be nearing ten albums that we've reviewed from our hiatus which has featured the Afrikan star. The actual music here won't change life anywhere, but it just might lighten up a dark night or time that you're going through..... which means that it just might "change life"; but for what it is, 'Can't Lock The Dance' is very nice and not with a complete lack of 'heart' at all ["Government ah try push it down, no matta where wi go. Dem waan keep wi mono, but wi need di stereo. Bun di marijuana and play a round of domino - a so wi go"].
It is during its middle portion where "Mad World" REALLY begins to shine, as it not only features what is my choice as the album's single finest moment, but a couple of other tunes which rank amongst its top class as well. Also found here is the eponymous selection from this release which is actually one which I do not love although it has grown on me just a bit since I heard it initially. It is derivative of an older tune of the same name, made popular by American singer, Gary Jules, and it has a kind of.... 'quick' sound to it?? That's probably not the best way of putting it, but there is something about 'Mad World' which failed to entirely grip me and still does. It never seems to settle into any groove and, at just one hundred and fifty seconds long, it doesn't really have that opportunity to do so. It isn't bad AT ALL, however, I just needed more time for a tune like this to get comfortable with me before sending me on my way (I think it's that melody that I don't enjoy). For the sake of comparison, check the space just ahead of it, 'They Don't Know'. Though two seconds shorter than the title track, it does seem to find and maintain its footing a bit better and, in doing so, shows itself to be a nearly HUGE composition. Here, Gentleman, speaks on the importance of identity and self-awareness. He uses train of thought as a source of a variety of different things, with probably the most resounding being general MOTIVATION ["Get up and find a solution. Go find a solution"]. 'They Don't Know' is a song (DUHHHHHHHHHHH!) and it has everything around that one would expect from one, but it also has this open conversation-like vibes to it where it seems like he's just.... sitting there, giving his opinion on a few things in a delightfully melodic way. And then there's the BOOM! The single finest moment that I've found within this mad world is track #6, the downright stunning 'What Them a Go Do'.
"When strangers come knocking at your door
Rearrangers don't want you to feel secure
DEM GET IT ALL, BUT DEM STILL WAAN MORE
Dem seh dem rich, but wi know dem poor
Get up, stand up and move cah there is no time to play
When you fi feel di groove you gone upon a holiday
YOU TALK BOUT TOMORROW WHEN YOU FI TALK BOUT TODAY
Get it all, remember, don't delay
Wah dem ahgo do?
When wi start bun di fyah
Heathen ahgo run go seek di prayer
Wah dem ahgo do?
When dem caan quench dem desire
No matta wah you do, wi get higher
Why can't it be like it once was before
When di youths dem took it easy, never gwan so hardcore
Everybody wanna be safe and secure
Dem caan take di blood ah run no more
Seh you are a toppa top -
And you gotta lotta glock
Seh you buss a lotta shot
Wait til di atta clap
Wi no deal wid rat-ta-tat
NAH GI MAMI HEART ATTACK
WI NO TEK NO PART A DAT
CAUSE WI KNOW DO WRATH A DAT"
The best written tune on the album as well as one of the finest listens, 'What Dem A Go Do' not only rises to the top of "Mad World", but it's probably destined to go down as one of my favourite Gentleman songs.... like EVER. 'Things Will Be Greater' is also exceptional and comes armed with a HEAVY Jugglerz creation behind it. When you combine the nice message it carries -- which, for me at least, is really about maturity and PATIENCE and how both so succinctly work together (when you're younger, your perspective is one which is much more immediate and FAST; but when you get a little older, you learn to slow things down) -- with CLEARLY one of the nicest musical performances that you will find here, you have a very easy winner of a tune and legitimate highlight from "Mad World".
The final lot of songs on the album feature songs which have moved for me just a bit. Originally I wasn't crazy about three of them (one of them is a joy and always has been), but a couple of those're probably better than I originally gave them credit for being. That one which is certain to leap out at you is 'Island Breeze', the album's second official combination, this one featuring Jamaican superstar and one of the greatest voices the genre has ever produced in Etana (incidentally, Etana also receives a writer credit for 'Defining Love' as does loooooooooooong time Gentleman collaborator, Daddy Rings, who receives the same observance for every other song on the album, including 'Island Breeze'). This song is precisely what you're thinking that it is and that isn't necessarily a bad thing at all, but with these two - I'd DEFINITELY like to see them work again together at some point (...maybe on her next project. That'd be nice). 'Far From The Rage' is a song steered in a similar direction to 'Over The Hills' to a degree (although, to its credit, it is further-reaching). The vibes here are sublime. It SOUNDS excellent and the sonic appeal certainly isn't wasted in this instance as, again, 'Far From The Rage' is a piece about taking a moment for yourself and maybe taking a detour away from the stresses of everyday life and finding some level of personal enjoyment for yourself (the song does really pick up, to its credit, as the final verse is probably one of the finest on the entire album ["Supposed to answer a hundred emails, but I'm not. Where di time did go, I missed di deadline fi di dub. Yeah, today mi lazy and mi nah feel to get up. Tarrus sing 'gimme a likkle one drop' "]. I still prefer 'Over The Hills' slightly but I will admit that the margin has shrunk from the when I began listening for the sake of this review. The biggest tune later on in the album for me is the BITE that is 'Stick To The Topic'. Gentleman serves up some well welcomed Dancehall on the drop which I would presume was largely created on the spur of the moment. It VERY MUCH sounds like a well organized freestyle and, as a giant demonstration of his immense talents, it works as one of the best songs that you will find here and, again, a most appreciated changeup. Lastly is a tune song which isn't bad at all but it didn't really resonate with me much outside of a sweet melody (and it is sugary. It will give your ears CAVITIES!), 'Jah Only'. I would say that when you go through the tracklist of "Mad World", had a selection such as this one not been here, you would have thought something was missing and it's here and it is a decent piece and a solid way of wrapping things up.
What is wrong with "Mad World"??? That's easy. A dozen tunes at about thirty-three and a half minutes, that's less than three minutes a song and some of them (even some really good ones), don't have enough time to really develop much. That's fine in something like Dancehall, but there were moments here where I feel like I'm really starting to get into things and... it starts to fade out. That being said, having read an interview of Gentleman in regards to the new project (biggup Da Ville!), it almost seems as if "Mad World" was just kind of put together when Universal called him up and, essentially, said 'hey, you should make an album!'. He agreed with them and thus the road to "Mad World" was paved. I know I'm simplifying things (and probably greatly), but given those set of circumstances, I'm not surprised by the lack of a longer set and, for what it is, there is nothing BAD or even AVERAGE, really, about "Mad World".... I just wish this planet was a little bigger (especially considering some of the monstrous releases he's had in his career).
Overall, brevity notwithstanding, "Mad World", in its sound is pretty much what we've come to expect from Gentleman throughout his career. As I said many many moons ago, if you enjoy Reggae and are at virtually any stage of being a fan of the genre, something here will reach you. I'm even more sure of that in this case than I am on some albums that I hold in considerably higher esteem (check any great album from Vaughn Benjamin, for example). His style is simultaneously SO open and genuine at the same time that the most hardened Reggae & Dub head is capable of appreciating it the same that the kid who's recently found a Bob Marley track that he likes (and if that kid is lucky, it's 'Natural Mystic' or 'War'). Two decades ago Gentleman demonstrated something to me that has made the subsequent time not all that shocking; and after all of these years, while they have passed somewhat quietly at times, it's still there on "Mad World" from someone who has led one of THE most remarkable careers in recent times.
".... 'Take Me to the Place' SOUNDS so nice. I don't know what the name of that track is, but Oneness may want to consider spreading it around a bit if they haven't already, because it is divine!"
I said that up there in reference to a tune on "The Answer", the 2020 release from the legendary Luciano and firebreathing Oneness Records from out of Germany and apparently I wasn't the only one who thought that it would be a good idea. The track whose name was unknown to me at the time is called the City Riddim and, because it is STUNNING, Oneness has spread it out six other vocalists and a very familiar maestro in Umberto Echo who provides it with an exquisite dubbed out version. If you've followed their history just a bit, you know that Oneness is a label who has consistently not only done fine riddims, but have turned those tracks into sterling compilations as well. When we were at our most active, not a great deal of time went by when we were not dealing with some type of release of theirs and though we slowed down, Oneness, delightfully, kept right along. So, while I was extremely happy to see this set pop up, I was also immediately convinced of its quality... and maybe some of the names they brought in to handle the vocals had something to do with that confidence.... just a little. Let's talk about it.
1. 'Take Me to the Place' by Luciano
Literally (being that it's the first song) and figuratively (it's also the best) Luciano's 'Take Me to the Place' is the skyscraper towering over the City Riddim. As I said in my original look at it, in 'Take Me to the Place' I hear (lyrical) echoes of 'No Night In Zion' which.... just may be The Messenjah's greatest ever. Fortunately, its SOUND resonates just as mightily and what we have here, in my opinion, is THE signature moment of the City Riddim. When you visit, you'll need to stop here first and take many pictures my friends.
2. 'Say That You Love Me' by Yaadcore
While Yaadcore's isn't a name which is entirely new to me, his solid effort on the City Riddim, 'Say That You Love Me', did come as somewhat of a surprise. I hear this tune and I feel a bit of Cali P and maybe even Protoje to a degree. It's a piece which excels largely based on its simplicity (I DON'T THINK THE MAN IS ASKING TOO MUCH! DO YOU?!) and ultimately makes for a very nice 'catch-up' on an artist who we all should probably start paying more attention to.
3. 'Nah Reverse' by Devano
And I could probably say a similar thing regarding Devano and his tune here, the largely political critique, 'Nah Reverse'. He had a nice song that I heard from last year or the year before (further research reveals that it was 2020's 'Say A Prayer'), but apart from that I can probably say that it's been at least a good half-decade that I can recall hearing..... pretty much anything from Devano. Surely that's my fault for not paying a good enough attention and not his for not doing anything for five years but, being that the case, 'Nah Reverse' just may be the single greatest work that I've heard from the artist to date ["Instead of fixing climate-change, they'd rather test their rocket's aim. Instead of hearing the poor man's cry, they'd rather love to see the people ah fight. Remember this: You were elected to work for the people - find a better future for the people. Can't trick the people like the camel through the needle, Devano mi ah burn you for the people. Mi bun di fyah fi purge dem. A through mi chat di truth, mi know it hurt them. I give the people what they deserve then - A forward wi ah forward, nah reverse"].
4. 'She Got Stoned' by Lutan Fyah
Lutan Fyah's cut of the City Riddim, 'She Got Stoned', initially appeared on the chanter's 2020 EP for Oneness Records, "Touch Di Road". It was a somewhat bleak and gritty story about a young lady who had lost her way in life (you're thinking of I Wayne's 'Can't Satisfy Her' and you're not way off). As I've said countless times in the past, Lutan Fyah's one of my favourites, particularly as a writer and, even here, he shows a nice command of melody (which isn't always his strongest suit) while delivering a typical excellently worded effort.
5. 'Nice & Clean' by Queen Omega
Speaking of favourites... The most divine and always welcomed on any damn thing Queen Omega checks in on the City Riddim as well with the pride saturated 'Nice & Clean'.
"Beautiful inna mi heart and a lovely inna mi face
THE MOST HIGH NEVER MAKE A MISTAKE
You see that I am wonderfully made
Sweet and strong and brave
You must love yourself and never hate
When you walk with pride, no one can underrate
SELF-CONFIDENCE WILL MAKE YOU FEEL GREAT-
NO ONE CAN DEBATE
Nice and clean, fit inna di magazine
I know I'm beautiful indeed
Got to love my own
I'm a Black Woman sitting on the throne
Nice and clean, fit inna di magazine
Real raggamuffin queen!
Got to love my own
I'm a Black Woman sitting on the throne"
It isn't her first go-round with Oneness and CLEARLY there is some chemistry there (and you know where my mind is headed) because 'Nice & Clean' is golden! It is an excellent song, simply made to instill some pride, self-esteem and confidence in the masses. Mission accomplished.
6. 'No Vanity' by Iba Mahr
Much as was the case for Lutan Fyah, Iba Mahr's track, 'No Vanity' was carried by his own Oneness produced EP release, "Get Up & Show", from 2018 (which might make it the debut of the City Riddim). Just as was the case there, again 'No Vanity' (which, sequentially, stands next to 'Nice & Clean' very nicely) (well placed in terms of ideology) is a standout on this release. Mahr has such a unique vocal approach with this kind of 'mid-singing' and wailing that he does, but he's perfected it through the years and if you're still not convinced (what the hell is wrong with you), 'No Vanity' might be a nice next stop for you.
7. 'Old Talking' by Vysionaer
Vysionaer is someone who, at least in my opinion, will soon his time come as he has spent the last few years or so churning out some strong material (check 'Hard and Dread', personal favourite of mine), and his piece on the City Riddim, 'Old Talking' does absolutely nothing to diminish my expectations on what is to come from the chanter. This one is a very clever type of a social commentary (in a sorta/kinda way) aimed at those who are fond throwing stones and judging others because they know you can't do the same to them.... because they aren't really doing shit themselves.
8. 'Take Me to the Place' - Umberto Echo Dubmix
Given all he does for the genre, if you're at all a fan of Dub these days, most likely you're also a fan of Umberto Echo's as well (and if you aren't you should be). From his working with Oneness Records, and Sara Lugo in particular, I've been listening to the man for quite some time now and despite being no expert on Dub, I consistently his enjoy his output. Taking on Luciano's 'Take Me to the Place' is easy for him, Echo probably couldn't do something less than stellar with it even if he tried and he does not disappoint. I do like situations like this where I am fully familiar with the tune and can compare the two versions and take a more direct listen to all of the variations the producer makes. This one is fairly straight-forward (with one or two nice deviations) and as infectious and hypnotic as one would hope.
9. City Riddim Instrumental
Take a look and a listen to the City Riddim in its BEAUTIFUL original form. Strictly as a composition, I think that it rates fairly high in Oneness' catalogue (which is saying a lot from with what they've done). It is UPFUL and LIVELY and just pulls a great vibe from you when you hear it. I was really happy that they placed it in this type of release and populated the City with a talented group of individuals from various stages in their respective careers and.... if they wanted to do even more with it in the future, you'd get nary a complaint from these parts.
Wherever and however you listen to music these days (unless you're only on physical media) (WHAT!) you'll find the City Riddim from Oneness Records, which is available now. Go see for yourself, it's not like you have anything better to do right now!
Not to bother you by telling you way too much of my ghoulish business, but as I've alluded to previously, I'm pretty much a bowl of some type of substance these days when it comes to my health and I definitely have to say thank you to all of the messages we've gotten over the past couple of years or so who have made a mention or some type of concern yeah. Even if we don't respond [LAZY!], it's still appreciated.
HOWEVER, someone who is well indirectly doing her part in keeping my spirits moving by continuously dropping amazing works, of course, is Achis Reggae favourite, Sara Lugo, who has dropped two new videos over the past month.
The first was for the tune 'Pour le Plaisir', alongside Phases Cachées, from out of France (which is apparently where Lugo lays her head these days).
I have to mention, hilariously, my Wife's wonderful first reaction when she saw the video for this tune which was something along the likes of, "when did she get THOSE", and I'll leave that to you to figure out what "those" are there. But the video is a very nice one which well matches the vibes of the song and really does what it's supposed to do, at least in my opinion, and makes the song stand out even greater. GREAT music on that tune and give it another listen.
Secondly and most recently (DUH!) is was the somewhat surprising clip of the MASSIVE 'Learn & Grow' which features Indonesian firebreather Ras Muhamad. The tune originally appeared on an album you already own, Muhamad's "Salam" and has lost not a bit of its shine over the course of the past couple of years. It ranks amongst the best either artist has ever produced to my ears.
Besides being another excellent video, I was just REALLY happy to see this tune be backed up with visuals. You go through albums (or at least I do) and think about how nice it would be if one or two of your favourites might get that type of rinsing but it doesn't always happen and, given the age of the song in particular, this was a big surprise (biggup Queen Omega for mining 'Ganja Baby', which is well over a decade old now).
So, if you're down on your luck or you're just not feeling too well, might I suggest adding a bit of Sara Lugo to your daily rotation. I'm no doctor, but I've told you this for years: This woman makes music which JUST MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD!
Both 'Pour le Plaisir' and 'Learn & Grow' can be found on Sara Lugo's latest release, the wonderful "Sara Lugo and Friends", which is in stores now... so go and get it.
10. 'Raggamuffin School' by Skarra Mucci & Yaniss Odua
11. 'Jamaica' by Macka B
12. 'Reggae Village' by Perfect Giddimani
13. 'Work' by Cali P
14. 'Always Remember' by Caleb Heart
15. 'Modern Man' by Morgan Heritage [Umberto Echo Dubmix]
16. Maad Sick Reggaeville Riddim [Instrumental]
Okay so, surely you remember a sweet little riddim from a few years back by the name of the ReggaeVille Riddim [biggup Da Ville]. That absolutely sprawling project featured stellar efforts from the likes of Etana, Tarrus Riley, Mark Wonder, Sizzla Kalonji and others (in retrospect, do we now consider the biggest hit on the Reggaeville Riddim to be... 'High & Windy'??? I think so) (biggup Teacha Dee) and was easily one of the best sets, of any kind, back in 2012 (truly ridiculous that thing is four years old already!). Well, fast-forward four years on and apparentlly we have something of a sequel at hand.
The ReggaeVille Riddim [2012]
You're also likely to recall that the orchestrator of the Reggaeville Riddim was the all kinds of reliable Oneness Records from out of Germany. Even prior to that, Oneness had made a mighty claim to being one of the most dependable imprints in the entire genre through various releases (like the General Key Riddim, which I haven't heard in a minute. That thing was so SWEET!) and the case could well be made that the Reggaeville Riddim, at the time, was their most expansive venture to date - so why not double up. In stores now is the latest creation from the wizards at Oneness Records, the Maad Sick Reggaeville Riddim. Like its predecessor, the Maad Sick is a clearly well-crafted set, brimming with top and diverse vocal talents and while my eyes tell me that one obvious name is missing (who may've been having too much fun with her friends), just looking through this tracklist leaves me with no complaints.
The early leader may just be UK firebreather Gappy Ranks ["Mi mad, mi sick, mi Reggae ville. Neva been a cub scout, I'm a general. Nah go rise no machine, but mi bredda will. Mek attorneys at law haffi send a will. Memba mi mad, mi sick, no penicill. Mi a real Buffalo like mi bredda Bill"] who checks in with the eponymous selection for the riddim, but The Carpenter is joined by the likes of recent Grammy winners, Morgan Heritage, Anthony B, the wonderfully inescapable Macka B (whose 'Jamaica' may just be my favourite Macka B tune in recent memory), Exco Levi, the always blazing Perfect Giddimani whose contribution, 'Reggae Village', is downright utopic and will probably have you wanting to move! And more flames come courtesy of Achis Reggae and earth favourite, Cali P ('Work' is MASSIVE), sweet singing Marla Brown, as well as a pair of combinations, one of which, 'Raggamuffin School' is a most interesting pairing of UK veteran Skarra Mucci and Yaniss Odua from out of Madinina. Want more??? [GREEDY!] Caleb Hart SCORCHES on 'Always Remember' and Oneness is wise to turn the track over to the well-capable hands of Umberto Echo and dubbifies the Maad Sick Reggaeville Riddim masterfully with the Morgans.
And I probably just mentioned every song on the riddim in one way or another, but who cares what I say?! Make up your own damn mind when you exercise the TINIEST bit of common sense and pick up what is certainly one of the finest productions Reggae has to offer in 2016, the Maad Sick Reggaeville Riddim from Oneness Records, which is in digital stores right now.
"Black Dillinger: Live In Munich" [Jah Muzik Productionz]
1. Intro
2. 'Do Good'
3. 'Burn Dem Up'
4. 'From A Place'
5. 'Hail The Man' featuring Uwe Banton
6. 'Africa'
7. 'Cyaan Run Away'
8. 'America'
9. 'It's Alright'
10. 'Bless My Soul'
11. 'Volcano Erupt'
12. 'Better Tomorrow'
13. 'Everyone'
Check! A really, REALLY nice and most surprising release recently popped up on our radars courtesy of Jah Musik Productionz as longtime Achis Reggae favourite and South African standout, Black Dillinger reaches back with his fourth album to date and his first since... his last one, the downright SHOCKING "Live In Munich"! As I've said in the past, Reggae shelves, both new and digital and old physical, aren't exactly overflowing with Live albums [biggup Soca] [or don't] and it's always nice when a real talent can draw some attention to the most overlooked album subgenre and, along with Jah Muzik, clearly Dillinger is doing his part.
The album is comprised of a show which took place during the Theatron OpenAir Festival in Munich, Germany (DUH!) and came as a total surprise to us, but we always biggup good ideas and here is a GREAT one! WHY NOT!
Musical speaking (which is our language here), the playlist is locked with some big tunes and heavy favourites from Dillinger, including what is probably my single favourite song of his, 'America', his cut of the MAMMOTH Gangstalaw Riddim from a few years back via the vanished IMMusic (looking it up, that track is almost a decade old which is RIDICULOUS!) (I am soooooooooo old) and other tracks which lit my eyes such as 'From A Place' ["Think you have it all, but one day you shall fall. Babylon ah crumble like wall!"] [BOOM!], 'Bless My Soul', 'It's Alright' and 'Cyaan Run Away' as well as 'Do Good' [TEARS!] from Black Dillinger's debut set, "Live & Learn". Also featured on "Black Dillinger: Live In Munich" are more songs, still, with which fans are familiar such as 'Hail The Man' alongside Uwe Banton (biggup Uwe Banton) 'Burn Dem Up' and 'Volcano Erupt' - the latter of which is probably the best performance on this album [BOOM!]. Lastly, also present is a tune new to my ears (according to the press-release, it's new to everyone's), 'Everyone', which is excellent and, is hopefully, a preview of what is to come from Black Dillinger once he reaches back in the studio for a new album.
Until then, however, there is ABSOLUTELY no reason at all not to pick up his latest project, "Black Dillinger: Live In Munich" from Jah Muzik Productionz, which can be found in your favourite digital store today.
"Cause I really, really like you. There's something about you"
Okay so, I've been fortunate lately to be the recipient of quite a bit of good news (especially medically) (biggup Achis) (and biggup everyone wondering about us: I've been ill for about a year and a half) and it got a little (a lotta) better when the wonderful people at one of our absolute favourite labels Oneness Records from out of Germany once again linked with one of the current bona fide GEMS of Reggae music, the incomparable Sara Lugo for a very cool new projct. Having just teamed up in 2014 for the singer's second full album release, "Hit Me With Music", I seriously wasn't expecting album #3 until... 2017 at the earliest perhaps, but with a pair of stellar releases behind her (and you really need to have picked up both "Hit Me With Music" and its predecessor, "What About Love"of 2011, already) Lugo brings forth a very interesting compilation of combinations, "Sara Lugo and Friends".
We have actually seen things like this previously as another of our and Oneness' favourites, Mark Wonder, released a similarly theme set several years. As the title would suggest, the fourteen tracks appearing on "Sara Lugo and Friends" feature the vocalist alongside a whole heap of different names both from within and outside of Reggae music. And you certainly cannot do such a thing with just anyone but Lugo has shown throughout her career that she can... work with just about anyone at all with any type of style -- a devastatingly gorgeous facet of what can be considered, at least in my opinion, one of the most pleasing musical presentations in the whole of modern Reggae music -- and do so without changing virtually anything that she generally does. We had no idea at the time but we all received a tip that this project was forthcoming when Lugo made a MAJOR link with the mighty Jah 9 for what was the finest tune that I heard in the first quarter of 2016, 'Rejoice' (TEARS!), which, essentially, is the first single from "Sara Lugo and Friends",
The album is a mixture of very prominent and newer/less known material and, as expected, is fantastic throughout. The next song that really caught my attention looking through the tracklist was 'Wine Now' alongside yet another favourite of ours, Cali P (biggup Cali P). This piece was the duos infectious cut of the equally addictive and underrated Scrub-A-Dub Riddim from Inspired and Hemp Higher ["My girl, you know seh mi like you"] and I was SO happy to see it here. There have been several combinations Lugo has done which are not carried on this album (obviously they couldn't include them all) and a tune like that may've seemingly missed the cut, but its presence well provides "Sara Lugo and Friends" with a dash of colour and edge. The same could be said (and I'm going to say it, watch here -) about a tune which was completely new to my ears and eyes 'Pour Le Plaisir' with French Hip Hop outfit, Phases Cachées. Didn't I say she could work with anyone? Lugo finds common ground with Phases Cachées despite the captivating tune veering between English and French throughout and it is a tough selection here. Also new to me, I think, is the sublime 'Don't Stay Away' with Jamaican veteran Joseph Cotton on a downright delightful old school vibes. And while I may be familiar with 'Mi Voz' featuring Zuri, the song gets a fresh mix here courtesy of longtime Sara Lugo producer Umberto Echo.
As I mentioned "Sara Lugo and Friends" also ties in quite a few songs which fans are sure to recognize and LOVE immediately. Pieces such as 'High & Windy', 'Really Like You' and 'Learn & Grow' carry a heavy weight with Kabaka Pyramid, Protoje and Ras Muhamad, respectively and might appear on a 'best of' Sara Lugo album right now...
PAUSE
What would I personally put on "The Best of Sara Lugo" album right now if I was compiling it? Great thing to think about - ten songs right off the top of my head, let's do it. In no order in particular and watch me forget one or two:
1. 'Rock Steady'
2. 'High & Windy' featuring Kabaka Pyramid
3. 'Really Like You' featuring Protoje
4. 'Bombs of Love'
5. 'Familiar Stranger'
6. 'Soldiers of Love'
7. 'Hit Me With Music'
8. 'Part of My Life'
9. 'Night Race' featuring Touissant
10. 'Play With Fire'
RESUME
"Sara Lugo and Friends" also brings together some solid tunes you may not have heard in a minute (YOU, not me, YOU) featuring the likes of Naptali (biggup Naptali), Lutan Fyah, Skarra Mucci ('Dubbin Is A Must', big tune), Ray Darwin, Deliman and Heston and all we can say is WELL DONE! I'm considering it a bonus, and a giant one, because the prospects of potential brand new Sara Lugo album are looking sweet, but a set like this well makes it easier to wait (... actually no it doesn't. It probably makes it harder. Just forget that last sentence). In any case however, what this album does do is to show that, as I said, certain people can just mash up anything. It doesn't matter what someone brings to the table and it doesn't matter who brings it. In what remains a relatively brief time (although she definitely does qualify as a 'young veteran' these days) (and what would that make me? Probably old and crazy) Sara Lugo has shown a style which is so INHERENTLY versatile and OPEN and seemingly was at its nascency that her music, at its strongest, is in one way or another, best shared with others and not to be kept to yourself. Want an example? Pick up "Sara Lugo and Friends" from Oneness Records which is in digital stores right now. Go do it! I'm going back to bed... I already have the album... you have to get it now. You can either get it or you can get it. It's all really quite simple. Even I can comprehend it. So if you can't you must have some SERIOUS problems. Like REALLY big problems. Okay I'm really done this time.
This song may just be an too much. It could have been of farrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr less quality and still have been a great one. Achis Reggae and Milky Way favourites Jah9 [BOOM!] and Sara Lugo [DAMN!] team up for a very early contender for Song of The Year 2016 with the Oneness Records produced 'Rejoice'. Linking one of the sharpest pens and wits in all of Reggae music with... essentially an angel (I've spent most of my life learning a lot of big and beautiful words, and pick up a few new ones everyday, but I am struggling to find more ways to describe this woman's voice and music) was an absolute stroke of genius.
Who cares what I think though? Hear for yourself when you pick up 'Rejoice' by Jah9 & Sara from Oneness Records - right now. BOOM!
Check the video for the latest and second single from Sara Lugo's wonderful new album, "Hit Me With Music", 'Really Like You' featuring Protoje. The Silly Walks produced track follows 'Play With Fire' and was filmed in Jamaica and directed by the great Jay Will. I love the video with several things popping up and if you pay very close attention, you'll even see Lugo giving a chunk of love to Cali P and his EP, "Healing Of The Nation". Also, Oneness Records recently released a digital single of 'Really Like You', which also features a dubbed out version of the song done by the venerable Umberto Echo. BOOM!
And if you have not already, stop being stupid and show a little brainpower and pick up "Hit Me With Music" by Sara Lugo which is in stores now!
Give us a reason to go digging and we will (… and sometimes we will even when you don't give us one). We continue the unofficial but clearly active 'Sara Lugo Week' around here with a look back at what lead us to the current release of a singer who has well proven to be one of our absolute favourites throughout the life of these pages. Armed with a highly intoxicating and truly one-of-a-kind blend of Roots Reggae and Jazz, the tall German singer has also proven to be well durable in such a short period of time and has, already, worked with some of the biggest production talents in all of Reggae music. She has also dazzled with a voice which seems 'created’ to do something in particular, but has found success in every way in which she has applied it to date. So now we take a look at the brief but extremely potent and powerful catalogue of someone who we cannot get enough of. Discography: Sara Lugo
"Sara Lugo" EP [Oneness Records - 2009]
Get familiar. Over the course of the last half decade or so as Reggae music has made its presence well known on the digital medium of music, we have seen a stunning amount of EP's from a variety of names. From the biggest side, with the likes of Bounty Killer, Sizzla Kalonji and Chronixx, to up and comers alike, the genre has produced a healthy amount of them and will seemingly continue to (which is fantastic). With that being said, unsurprisingly, one of my favourites remains this introduction and self-titled set from Sara Lugo and Oneness Records. In just a few tracks, this very straight-forward released managed to compile a pair of the biggest tunes Lugo has ever done in 'Familiar Stranger' and the tranquilly infectious 'Rock Steady'. Also featured was another tune with a grand importance, 'And They Cry' (which may've been the first time I heard Sara Lugo's music, in retrospect) alongside another favourite of ours, Naptali and the EP also carried a somewhat overlooked but glowing vocal display in 'Mother & Child'. Though it would take another two years to arrive, this Umberto Echo produced project would well set the stage for the FULL dosage of funky comfort which was to come next from Sara Lugo.
"What About Love" [Oneness Records - 2011]
…funky comfort. One of the best EP's I've heard would lead into one of the best debut albums I've heard in 2011 as Lugo would deliver her all kinds of compelling first full release, "What About Love". I've probably written about this album more than anyone and (this CERTAINLY WILL NOT be the last time) with good reason as it ranks as a set which, now three and a half years on, has managed to continue to not only rise in quality but also constantly offer new and interesting aspects to consider. That's a rare quality in an album where I do not find myself relentlessly having to place together concepts and distinguish meanings (not that I'm complaining about that) (biggup Vaughn Benjamin). In this case, "What About Love" STILL catches me with its sound. I hear beautiful things like on 'Nothing To Worry' where, more than three and a half minutes into a song less than five minutes long, it EXPLODES! I hear a powerful simplicity in a song like 'Soul Chaos' which so vividly accentuates the fact that the vocals there are tremendous and it took me years to realize just how strong they were. A relatively newfound greater appreciation for acoustic cut of 'Familiar Stranger' (a song I could listen to endlessly these days and another one with a sound which detonates at one point). I hear 'Locked Away' and immediately get images in my mind of Sara Lugo rolling around with a cactus plant [OUCH!]. I hear 'If Tears' with a different from my own Grandmother transitioned in January and songs like 'Part of My Life', 'Rock Steady' and 'What Happened' are, like the album in full, personal classics for me. A gem.
"Hit Me With Music" [Oneness Records - 2014]
The light album. I'm sure there were others (probably quite a few of them) but, in theory, I don't know the last time I would have looked so much forward to a release than I would have to "new Sara Lugo album". And though we had to wait three and a half years (and, at least today, it doesn't seem like a particularly long time, looking back), what eventually would arrive, "Hit Me With Music", would not disappoint and it probably couldn't have even if it tried to. The most immediate (still very developing) response to this one is definitely just how FINE it is to listen to. If "Hit Me With Music" was a person, she'd have flaming red hair, she'd be "kinda grey" and she'd be very, very attractive. This album just makes me smile every time I heard it - and we'll tell you more about that (again) [WHAT!] [BOOM!] on Friday. While you're waiting, you have no reason not to pick up everything on this list.
