The Best Reggae Albums Of 2025

Let's do it! 

{Note: No compilations, no Soca}

#10. "Dub Of Serenity" by Marcus Gad & The Zion I Kings [Lustre Kings Productions]

I was debating on whether or not I would slap a review on this album prior to placing it on this list and I ultimately decided against it (although I did start to write it, so you may get it at some point in the first few months of this year) because I thought that it would speak more to the overall quality of it were (like one more entry here) the VERY first time I ever said a word about it declaring it one of the best albums of 2025. "Dub Of Serenity" is a dubbed out version of a five year old album ["Rhythm Of Serenity"] that, to be completely honest, I wasn't thrilled with. It was OKAY but absolutely nothing that I would call special or anywhere near special. HOWEVER, "Dub Of Serenity" STUNNED. Some of the music on this album was flooring and it's gotten to the point for me that "Dub Of Serenity", on the rare occasions when I'm not really listening to anything, is WHAT I'M LISTENING TO. If I need noise - this is it. It shouldn't come as a surprise, given the fact that the music comes via the lock-reliable Zion I Kings (who you'll see again here at a very high position), but what they were able to do here, with Marcus Gad's old album has to be considered some of their finest Dub work to date. You won't see this album on any other such list (and, normally, I exclude dubs and instrumentals from my list as well but I HAD to include this one), of that I'm sure, but I don't give a damn. This thing was gorgeous. 

#9. "Sibusiso [Blessings]" by Perfect Giddimani [GIddimani Records]

Much like the first entry on this list, the MUSIC on "Sibusiso" was fantastic and it, too, would spawn a Dub version (literally, like a couple of weeks later) and with good reason. The Sinky Beatz guided set spoke nearly as much to the power of its producer as it did to the most unusual gifts of its most peculiar star, Perfect Giddimani. The presences of top notch peers, Lutan Fyah (may or may not be hearing from him again, later) & Anthony B only added to the soaring vibes of "Sibusiso", as did Perfect reaching with tunes such as the fantastic opener, 'Another Marcus Garvey', 'Jah We Pray', 'Selassie White Horse', 'Him Presence' and the MAMMOTH, ALL-CONQUERING 'Africa Mother Land' ["Mi chop off di chain but mi nah cut di African link"].

#8. "Treasure Self Love" by Lila Iké [Ineffable Records]

Unless I'm really overlooking something here, Lila Iké's full debut release, "Treasure Self Love" would have been the most purely popular album featured here and that's no surprise. It's star has proven to be a compelling story both in and out of the studio and then there's the matter of the actual music... "Treasure Self Love" GLOWS. Iké's style, inherently is one that makes for a certain beautiful sound (I'm convinced she can probably make pretty much any type of genre and her results would be of high quality. Her singing in the shower is probably better than a few honourable mentions for this list). She did manage to incorporate a few different styles throughout the album but it never drifted too far away from Reggae. A FINE example of this would be 'All Over The World' which featured Protoje (who produces) and 'He Loves Us Both', with H.E.R. They were not alone on the high end. I don't know what the hell 'Sweet' was but it GOLDEN, so was 'Brighter Days' which is probably the best song on this album, 'Scatter' and the delightfully nostalgic 'Romantic' which brought in Masicka and Patra whose 'Romantic Call' was remade sorta/kinda to a towering effect. 

#7. "Star Of The East" by Yeza [Rorystonelove + Black Dub]

I semi-alluded to "Star Of The East" previously in talking about "Dub Of Serenity" because I THINK its appearance here will mark the very first time that I've ever mentioned it but the lyrical CLUBBING that Yeza gave to us all on "Star Of The East" was unignorable. Yeza channeled Jah9 (and did so, coincidentally, with Rorystonelove who also helped bring Jah9 to prominence) but turned up the aggression just a little. In doing so, she provided  2025 with its punch in the face. She kicked us all about a bit and we did not complain at all. The fairly straightforward project, basically, served as a platform for which Yeza to display her often devastating talents on and, in that, "Star Of The East" was almost perfect. Yeza SCALDED listeners with the title track, 'Road Runner', 'Ism Schism', 'Piss Up' ["Hotflashes like menopause"], 'Preacher Man' and 'Real Heavyweight' but she also cared for us a bit with 'Edge Control' and, in a strange way, 'Rude'. Yeza announced herself here to stay with "Star Of The East" and it's time we all got used to her being around. 

#6. "Just Giving Thanks" by Glen Washington [Tad's Records]

Certified and verifiable VETERAN Mr. Glen Washington essentially did what he always does with "Just Giving Thanks".... he just gave thanks, made some love songs, slapped a cover on it and called it an album and WE LOVED IT! His next album will be exactly the same and so will the one after that. If it ain't broke... "Just Giving Thanks", for as basic and expected as it may have [it was] been did a wonderful job of putting on a full, vibrant display of precisely what Washington does best. You won't find smoke and mirrors on winner such as the title track, 'Heart Attack', 'Dreadlocks Conqueror', 'Square One', 'Seeking Jah Love' and, of course, 'Oh, To Be Like H.I.M.' What you will find instead are quintessential and vintage vibes from one of the greatest to ever do it and someone who has earned their own stripes and, obviously, enough for more than one generation. One of Glen Washington's best albums EVER. 

#5. "Worthy 2 B" by Jah Myhrakle [Gold Den Arkc Records]

If Belizean chanter, Jah Myhrakle piqued my interests with his contributions to what  turned out to be the second best compilation that I heard last year, "Heart Of One", he full-on made a fan out of me with his album, the weighty "Worthy 2 B". This album, in retrospect, has two very large things in its favour. The first of them is also its most identifiable quality (for me) and that's the fact that it is, EASILY, one of the finest WRITTEN songs of 2025. Myhrakle has a very clever and colourful way of making his points. He takes the proverbial "scenic route" in his writing and absolutely EVERYTHING is available for the sake of analogies so we, as listeners, are best off having some form of knowledge before going in (and he clearly expects that of you, otherwise much of Jah Myhrakle's work probably won't make much sense to you). The other thing that you notice on "Worthy 2 B" that really sets it apart is that there is something SUBTLY and CAREFULLY important sounding about this music. The best of it sounds like exactly what you would think it is: Music for a King. 

#4. "Andromeda: Sign Of The Times" by Sydney Salmon & The Imperial Majestic Band [Irie Sounds International + Imperial Majestic Productions]

I'm going to reference #7 on this list in regards to how an album can have such an open and inviting sound to listeners. In that particular case, Lila Iké did combine a few different genres beneath the umbrella of Reggae music. Sydney Salmon & The Imperial Majestic Band, on the other hand, accomplished the same results without stepping a foot 'outside'. On "Andromeda: Sign Of The Times", Salmon & Co. charted a sound which was entirely Roots Reggae of a modern and old school variety - no question about it; but I'd make the case that, as a result, they also made one of the most OPEN and APPEALING albums of the year. Maybe I'm biased (I am, there is no "maybe") but I have a very difficult time imagining how someone is incapable of appreciating something on this album. This is what I would think most people set out to make when they embark on making a Roots album these days: For it to end up sounding like "Andromeda" and being able to find an audience amongst fans of the genre, new and old, and if someone who isn't at all a fan just happened to come into contact with a clip of it in some way, they'd also want to hear more. 'Africans Alive', 'Blessed', 'My Banner', the TWO eponymous tracks... I could go on and on. The entire album is brimming me with BEAUTIFUL 'best case scenario' Roots Reggae music.

#3. "Stay Up" by Spectacular [Carabeo Records]

When everything is finished and all of the scores have been tabulated, I'm not expecting to see Spectacular's "Stay Up" on too many lists such as this one, despite that I'm ranking it so highly. This album has a large and glaring issue and to ignore it would be irresponsible, AT BEST. "Stay Up" is too damn short. It just is. It's nine track and not even forty minutes long. So by the time you REALLY fall into it... that's about it. You've already heard the entire thing. What it manages to achieve in its brevity, however, is... yeah. It's spectacular. Spectacular's style can be one that's somewhat difficult to adjust to. He can be aggressive to an almost overdone degree at times (I'd reference UT Ras but there is no way in hell you're familiar with UT if you don't know who Spectacular is) (Jah Thunder would be another one). He can be HARSH but when you find a vibe that suits him, like the Forward Ever Band does throughout "Stay Up", you can mine gold! Try the brilliant opener, 'Jump Ina Fyah' or the downright exhausting 'Justice' ["I play Nyabinghi inna di middle of the street. Play Nyabinghi because it sound so sweet!"] (or both of them) as FLAMING examples of this. Want more? 'The System' might do it for you and so might the SMOOTH 'Hardcore'. More still, Lutan Fyah (who dat???) and Lymie Murray show with contributions and I haven't even mentioned 'Bag A Weed', which is the album's single finest tune altogether.... ALL OF THAT IN JUST NINE SONGS. Were it just a bit longer, no position on this list would be outside of the reach of "Stay Up" but that's just my opinion. 

#2. "Guardian" by Dezarie [Dezarie]

Dezarie brought her spellbinding and dazzling form of Roots music to 2025 in the form of her brand new album, "Guardian", and accordingly, awakened her legions of most passionate and loyal fans and certainly made some new ones as well. "Guardian" was as THICK and HEAVY as you knew it would be but, despite also being a relatively brisk (and for the sake of comparison, "Guardian" is one song and one minute longer than "Stay Up" and it is rated ONE spot ahead of it), this album has the feel of a much longer release. In my opinion, even scratching the surface of the gifts "Guardian" has to offer requires at least three or four listens, on the lowest of ends. If you want to receive EVERYTHING?... I'm still working on that and I'll let you know if I ever feel like I've accomplished it (I will not). Tunes like 'Back To The Future', 'Criminal', the EPIC 'Immortal Combat', 'Lion Is Lion', the title song and several others (I say "several others" after naming five songs on an album with only ten) (....so pretty much the entire album) develop more and more as you tune in what Dezarie is actually saying. In 2025, Dezarie demanded that we all step up our game and if you did, you realized the absolute GEM that she left for us in "Guardian". 

#1. "Strength & Resilience" by Lutan Fyah [I Grade Records]

It's the Zion I Kings who are bookending this list with Marcus Gad at #10 and crowning it with the second album they've done with the great Lutan Fyah, "Strength & Resilience". CLEARLY something is happening here as the first time artist and producers collaborated for an album, on 2017's "Music Is Life", the results were also special (and likely would have been the best album that year from us, were we not on hiatus at the time) but I'd argue that they even outdid themselves there as "Strength & Resilience" reached and IMMEDIATELY headed for the stars. I'm partial and biased in both cases. I've been a fan of Lutan Fyah's from, basically, the first time I heard his music and I've also enjoyed the work of the ZIK, collectively and individually for maybe even longer (coincidentally, the first time I heard the "K", Lustre Kings Productions, was probably on a compilation album by the name of "Culture Dem" and WHO HAD THE VERY FIRST SONG ON "CULTURE DEM"????) ["All man on earth should know, who is King Selassie I!"] (BOOM!) and I don't want to overly-dramatize the matter but years and years of chemistry was crystal clear throughout "Strength & Resilience".

Two guesting artists being two of the greatest of all time for me certainly didn't hurt things either, Queen Omega lent her monstrous talents to 'Days After Summer', while the immortal Vaughn Benjamin added to the infectious BOUNCE of 'Just The Time' ["BUT I CAN FEEL IT NOW!"]. Also present was a gentleman, in a very good form, by the name of Chronixx who delighted on 'Freedom Sound'. The album also featured extremely high caliber instrumentation (DUH!), which goes without saying on a ZIK release but (I have a point I'm making so give me a second. It'll all make sense) I don't know that I can recall a single album where the music was as.... all-encompassing as it is on "Strength & Resilience". There is a genre here. This is truly modern Roots Reggae music; but there isn't a centering sound, necessarily. It covers EVERYTHING. It's moody & brooding ['Pieces of Broken Soul', 'Strength & Resilience', 'Tomorrow From Today'], it's vibrant and lively ['Protect Your Energy', 'African Children'] and it's also everywhere in between ['Drain The Swamp', 'Leader Before Me']. In terms of an actual artist's album and not a Dub album, which they're very fond of making (as we've already established today), "Strength & Resilience", MUSICALLY, may be the single greatest piece of work that I have EVER heard from the ZIK, in retrospect. 

For his part, Lutan Fyah meets and matches the might of his maestros with a magnificent lyrical display (DUH AGAIN!) and, again, you have to qualify that because he's ALWAYS in a fine form, lyrically, for me (the standing critique of Lutan Fyah is that he doesn't have the greatest command of melody -- and he does not and he never will -- but his craft with words has long been beyond question for me) (not REALLY, if he started speaking nonsense, I'd say so). What he manages to do on this album, however, as a complete body of work has a seat at the table in the conversation of being his greatest performance as well. "Strength & Resilience" was also THE greatest performance from anyone last year and THE BEST REGGAE ALBUM OF 2025.... and all negativity banish from within. 

Most Wanted: 2026

Okay so, that was 2025. I hope you liked it but if you didn't, there's nothing we can do about it now. It's over... on to the next! We had some very impressive releases from some expected and some unexpected stars to help make the year fun and, presumably (and hopefully), this time next year, we'll be saying the same for 2026. So we're already looking ahead to what the future might have to offer and to do that we're going to use a feature from back in da day. Today we assemble a group of ten individuals who we're hoping to hear from in the new year. Most Wanted 2026!

{Note: Names appear in no particular order}

{Note 2: I intentionally excluded people who I know have albums scheduled or are heavily rumoured to be releasing albums}

Anthony B

It was just 2023 when the great Anthony B released his most recent set, "Bread & Butter", so while the world isn't exactly starving for a new one from him just yet... it would be pretty nice considering the roll he's been on in recent times. I'm sure I'll say this in regards to someone else (if not everyone else) but, with the right producer, based on what he's been up t o lately, I think Anthony B's next album -- whenever we get it -- could be a contender for best of that year. Even at such an advanced and well grizzled stage in his career, the Original Fire Man appears to be well within reach of his prime. ANTHONY B! SHOW EVERYONE WHAT I MEAN AND DO AN ALBUM IN 2026! PLEASE.

Queen Omega

We're just coming up on the third anniversary of "Freedom Legacy", Queen Omega's most recent studio release but prior to that, a truly ridiculous FIFTEEN YEARS had elapsed in between records from her, which was entirely unacceptable. Three years is just fine in my opinion and the star of our Album of The Year for 2023 would look just fine making her return in 2026. In the summer or so I actually heard an interview (on a radio station in Toronto, I THINK) where the Queen said she was at work on her next album and I, of course, glued into that fact. She didn't say with whom she was working or give any type of timeframe for its potential release whatsoever but, if she does make an appearance next year, she could definitely do a lot for 2026. 

Damian Marley

"Stony Hill" will turn eight years old next summer and one of the legit, bona fide superstars of the genre, Damian Marley, figures to be DUE for a new set any one of these years now (and I can recall hearing a rumour that he was coming with something late 2024, I believe) and one would think that he is actively at work on the next project. I always enjoy stressing the fact that, despite the most obvious thing about him -- he's Bob's son ["Tell mi which CD do you think dem get? Di one closest to di Bob Marley boxset"] -- Jr. Gong is a wizard. Lyrically, the man is virtually peerless and what he is capable of is downright special. Hearing a brand new performance of his talents is always a gift. Hopefully he brings gifts next year and I think he will. 

Ras Batch

Without looking anything up, I would probably say that Ras Batch releasing an album in the next twelve months would be THE biggest surprise if everyone on this list were to do the same. The last time we heard from him would have been on "Rootz & Kulcha" from early 2017 and if you know anything about Batch, he pretty much likes to do his albums by himself. Of course there're exceptions (one in particular) but he generally keeps production in-house via his own Sound V.I.ZIon imprint. That's fine but I think if he could, somehow, get into that never endingly active mix of Trinity Farm Music (like other VI artists, Ancient King, Abja, Danny I and  even Akae Beka) it would see the rather reclusive Ras Batch to a greater level of frequency... and he can bring Ras Attitude with him! I don't think it happens but stranger things have. 

Sara Lugo

Finally (technically. I'm writing this one last but she won't be listed last), you knew she was coming. How about a new Sara Lugo album for the new year?! Recently returning to the familiar ground of Oneness Records, the now VETERAN singer (Sara Lugo's probably getting towards (if not already) forty years old (that is RIDICULOUS!)) (further research reveals that she just turned 38!) could definitely freshen up 2026 via dropping album #4. It's been a minute (and four and a half years) since "Flowaz" ["Bring me flowers!"], so she's also due (...for an album) any year now and 2026 seems as good as any. I'm actually going to predict that this one does happen in the new year. Maybe it comes from Oneness, maybe not, but I suspect Funky Comfort will reign in 2026!

Luciano

I could definitely be wrong and I probably am but, off the top of my head, I THINK that the most recent studio album that we got from the great Messenjah, Luciano, was 2020's Oneness produced GIANT, "The Answer". He's had re-releases, remasters, greatest hits and compilations since then but, as far as I can tell, not an actual new album since it (he had one called "Return Of The Chronicles" which was an odd R&Bish re-working of some of his biggest hits that was really hard to listen to). That's fucked up... it just is. Even if I'm forgetting one, hopefully one of the greatest voices this music has ever produced and one of its longest serving soldiers comes back to us in a characteristically BEAUTIFUL way in 2026. 

Mark Wonder

There was an EP back in '23 called "Reflections Of The Dragon Slayer" but I think that the last full album from the GOLDEN Mark Wonder remains 2020's "Remz Of The Dragon Slayer" (the man has been slaying dragons for a really long time). That album came from a very familiar source, Oneness Records and, not too long ago, Wonder appeared on their High Peak Riddim. I'm thinking that 2026 could be a very good time to get the old band back together again and see what could happen. What could happen has history as, way back in 2012 Wonder & Oneness teamed up on the aptly named "Working Wonders" which is, EASILY, one of THE best albums I have heard in my entire life. I think that it's time for a sequel ["WHO ELSE COULD IT BE?!"]. Will it actually happen??? I wouldn't bet on it. 

Busy Signal

This one is very specific and I don't really think that it has a legit shot of happening but let me ask you something: How damn cool would it be if Busy Signal's next album came via the Zion I Kings?? Doesn't that sound pretty good?! Obviously, the thought arose as the well versatile Busy actually did cross paths with massive Reggae collective for a single, 'The Days', back in October. Now, if they could get together again.... this time for a full album, the results, just as the quality of the single would suggest, could be MASSIVE.

Jah Defender

Such a list from me these days HAS to include the currently flaming chanter from out of Trinidad, Jah Defender. Along with being quite active these days, he lays a giant claim to dropping THE single best tune that I heard in all of 2025 altogether 'Haile Selassie I', so of course I'm interesting in getting my hands on a full release in 2026. Magnifying matters is the fact that he's been doing a lot of work with one single outfit, House Of Riddim. I can DEFINITELY see HOR reaching with a full Jah Defender project in the new year and you know what? I think it WILL happen and if it does, at least on paper, this one will have Album of The Year potential in my opinion. 

Reemah

I know that I said that these were listed in no order in particular but I specifically saved Reemah for last because she's probably my #1 in terms of how much I want it to happen. It has been a downright heinous soon-to-be eight years since her last set, "Breaking News", and... frankly I'm getting tired of waiting. This is some bullshit! Had I done this list last year or the year before, my prospects would have probably been higher. Today? Nope. I have none. I don't think this is happening. I do hope that I'm wrong but I'm not seeing one of the true, bona fide GENIUSES that we have today doing a new album in the new year. I'm just not.... but DAMN, I HOPE I'M WRONG! 

The Best Reggae Albums of 2024!

I don't feel like writing an intro! LET'S GET TO IT!

{Note: No Soca, EPs, multi-artist compilations or complete dubs/instrumentals}

{Note 2: Haven't done one of these in ages, it was kinda difficult}

#10."See It Deh"  by Ras Shiloh [Reggae Vibes Productions]

Had you told me at the end of 2023, that Ras Shiloh's name would be on a list for biggest albums of 2024, I would probably have been quite surprised. That shock wouldn't have come because I didn't think he could reach those levels in terms of quality but... I wouldn't have thought that there was much of a chance, AT ALL, that the year would bring an album from the decorated singer. Wonderfully, the project would come via JahMikes and the increasingly esteemed Reggae Vibes Productions (which has, QUIETLY, become one of the more dependable outfits in the entire genre in my opinion). Ras Shiloh & RVP should tell you pretty much everything you need to know about the actual quality of "See It Deh" and, with carrying a tune such as the downright GLORIOUS 'Hail The King', it did not disappoint.

#9."Levite" by Zacheous Jackson [Red Ground Jamaica]

"Levite", the twenty-four track monster set from the well gifted Zacheous Jackson, equally bludgeons and finesses its way onto this list through some truly beautiful vibes and the sheer size of the project. Perhaps the single greatest credit that can be paid to Jackson & "Levite" is to say that it doesn't contain an ounce of 'filler'. It was twenty-four good songs which were of all of a certain quality which made it one of the BIGGEST (literally) albums of 2024. Standouts were all over the place such as 'I Wish' and, NINETY MINUTES LATER, 'Look Within' and 'Unda Mi Medz'. I didn't end up hearing much about this one which is too bad but hopefully its shelf life is greater than its launch because, clearly, there is so much good to be heard on "Levite" and it'd be too bad if not too many people got to experience it. 

#8."Ganja Man" by Linval Thompson [Irie Ites]

Legendary vocalist meets CLASS outfit on "Ganja Man" as the esteemed Linval Thompson links with the brilliant Irie Ites. Together -- TO THE SURPRISE OF ABSOLUTELY NO ONE AT ALL -- the duo mined gold. "Ganja Man" was complete musical treat of an experience, uniting some of the most captivating vocals the genre has ever heard along with Irie Ites' typically extremely high level, classic sound. The best of it was the title track, 'What Time Is It' and the outstanding pair of Ligerians  (more on them later) scored tracks, 'Trod Along' & 'Get Ready' but the entirety of "Ganja Man", dubs and all, was an outstanding contribution to 2024. 

#7."Outrospection" by Twan Tee [Baco Records]

While 2024 didn't completely introduce me to French artist, Twan Tee, it did do so formally via his LOVELY album, "Outrospection". Produced by the one Oddy (who, apparently, produces all of Tee's work), "Outrospection" was a really good time, featuring work which ranged from straight forward Roots Reggae, to Dancehall music of varying eras, though it is clear that a large chunk of Tee's inspiration can be tracked to a more classic sound of the music which he has captured excellently here. Highlights included 'Bridges', which featured Warrior King, the outstanding opener, 'Put It Pon Replay', the HUGE 'Stamina', 'Undercontrol', 'General' with Niggle, 'Babylon Walls' alongside Omar Perry, 'Underwater' and others. Didn't see much about this one and were we more active, I would have definitely slapped a giant review on it and.... hell, I still might after I clear out a bit of space. "Outrospection" was sublime. 

#6."Apex" by Bugle [An9ted Ent/Evidence]

Despite the fact that he's already held in fairly high esteem, the case could be made that Bugle actually stepped it up a notch or two through his incredibly well done and well received 2024 release, the CHILLY titled "Apex" (you KNOW that title is cool as all hell). Bugle is a case of someone who has enjoyed an overall raise of profile over the course of the past few years or so and the work that comprised 'Apex" is a giant example of the reason why and also why more casual heads of the genre are beginning to pay more attention to the Kingston native who is fond of exercising everyday and not still being fit. "Apex" thrilled with Bugle on his own with tracks like 'Promise', the HEAVY 'Bad Dream', 'Heads Up' ["Before wi even play di game, yow wi win already"] and the downright scalding social commentary 'Upside Down' and then... oh, Capleton, Buju Banton & Jr. Gong, Maxi Priest, Barrington Levy, Tifa and personal LONGTIME favourite of mine, Military Man were also on board.... just hanging out! AND HAVE I MENTIONED JUST HOW DAMN COOL THAT TITLE IS??!

#5."Shelter From The Storm" by Nadia McAnuff & The Ligerians [SoulNurse Records]

Had I done one of these lists last year, my #1 would have been "Freedom Legacy" by Queen Omega and THE Queen of 2023 passed the mic to the queen of 2024, Nadia McAnuff who, along with the aforementioned Ligerians, delivered what may just have been the single greatest sonic experience in all of Reggae for the year, "Shelter From The Storm". This album was IMMACULATE from beginning to and end and contain some downright halting material. At its pick, 'Waiting Room' laid claim to being amongst my absolute favourite tunes from the entire year ["Stop looking out of yourself, my son. Never stop fighting for repatriation"] and what it headed, fully, was nearly as strong. 'Shelter' (year's best album best-song-chaser), 'So Jah Seh', 'Yes We', 'Holy' and the FUNKY 'Freedom of Peace' also stunned but the album only had ten songs altogether (its only flaw)... so pretty much all of them. 

#4."Free Man" by Norris Man [Tad's Records]

These days, Norris Man HAS ME. He just does. He cannot do much wrong and that was the case before 2024 began and the chanter would do nothing in the way of diminishing my support of his work throughout the year. In July, he would drop the looooong awaited "Free Man" (the album was literally announced in late 2023, if I recall correctly) and that album, for me, has grown and GROwn and GROWN. "Free Man" is gorgeous and EASILY one of the best albums that Norris Man has released to date. Despite only carrying eleven tunes it was stocked with big ones: 'Fighting For My Rights', 'Jah Is The Almighty', 'To Jah I Pray', the freeflowing 'Ahead A Dem', 'Going Out On You', the popular 'Burn Babylon' ["Mi bun dem more than a trillion times"].... and MORE! "Free Man" has still found a regular place on my players and, were we to revisit this list in a few years or so, I wouldn't be surprised if it ranked even higher AT ALL.

#3."The Gentle Man" by Romain Virgo [VP Records]

It never even occurred to me to actually review "The Gentle Man" by Romain Virgo because it got to the point where I believed that everything that was to be said had already been (or was being) said. I may be overlooking something but, off the top of my head, I can't think of another album from 2024 that was as widely critically acclaimed (not saying it was the run away regarded BEST but, given how popular it was, the sheer amount of praise that it has been given may be #1). All of that stuff (ALL OF IT) was warranted. Romain Virgo broke stuff and ripped it to shreds on "Gentle Man" in did so in several different ways. Sometimes it was more aggressive ['Been There Before' and 'You Must Pay'], while others required a more careful hand ['Good Woman' and the MASSIVE 'Driver'] and, brought altogether, what we ended up with was not only one of the best albums of the year but, in all likelihood, the single best album of Virgo's entire career... but I think he can do even better someday. Masicka, Jesse Royal and even Capleton featured. 

#2."Deep Medz" by Eesah [King I-Vier Music/Loud City]

In terms of debut albums (ALLLLBUMMMMS, not big EPs), no one did finer in 2024 than Eesah who impressed in a major way (and BROKE STUFF) with "Deep Medz". Eesah's talent is an EASY one. It is effortless. The man could probably give you studio quality renditions of some of these tunes fresh out of his bed because what he does appears to come SO naturally to him. You could hear it saturating tunes like the all-conquering opener, 'Behold The Conquering Lion', 'Jah Give Me Strength', 'Uprise', 'Red Alert', the overlooked 'Push On', 'Irie' and 'Empress Menen'. That was one story behind "Deep Medz", the other was the ridiculous supporting cast of artists who joined Eesah like Capleton & Lutan Fyah [on the same damn song], Perfect Giddimani & Pressure Busspipe [on the same damn song], Kabaka Pyramid, Million Stylez and even Sizzla Kalonji leant their names, collectively, to HOPEFULLY attract attention to a project that deserved some of the brightest shine that the genre had to offer in all of 2024. 

#1."Living Testament" by Akae Beka [Trinity Farm Music/Go A Chant Productions]

Noted as the final album recorded by the legendary Vaughn Benjamin, "Living Testament" would, in my opinion, send the legendary chanter on his way taking the biggest prize of the year. I did not hear its equal in 2024. I've come to a place as a listener of Akae Beka's music where I'm able to decipher, relatively quickly, how I feel about what I'm listening to. The work that comes afterward (the "journey to comprehension" as I've come to call it) notwithstanding (that adds to the overall experience but I can't assess how fun that is at the time with new material), I'm USUALLY able to catch on when Benjamin is a particularly effective form - such as was the case ALL OVER "Living Testament". Credit goes to the grounded Trinity Farm Music -- who would later release a dub version of the album -- for providing a captivating background for Benjamin, which has not been/is not always the case, making for one of the more digestible albums in his catalogue in my opinion. You could probably have a fairly good time digging into "Living Testament" as a casual listener. It doesn't require ALL of your attention in order to be pleasing.

HOWEVER, should you have chosen to give it your 100% (and you should, you have no reason not to), what awaited fans in 2024 was 'intoxication of a certain kind' (biggup Gentleman). Tunes like the giant opener, 'Stone Of The Corner', 'All Around Man Yard' and 'Cream Of Joy' hit on a VERY HIGH level but they were topped by 'Rebellion Running', 'Who Is The Rejector Who Is The Reductor', (I'm listening to 'Rebellion Running' right now. With these horns... tune song is PROBLEMS! ) ["Let hearts be fertile to receive goodness. Let soul be receptive to rationale and reason"], infectious single 'Who Wil Go For Us' and the all-conquering 'Holding The Amen Key', RIDICULOUSLY, skyscraped (YES! I just turned SKYSCRAPER INTO A VERB! WHUT!) the quality of "Living Testament" and it soared not only to being one of the best Akae Beka albums but also THE BEST REGGAE ALBUM OF 2024.... among the ministers of The King's High Court.

Signatures I: Akae Beka

Okay so, I've had this idea for awhile but I've always found myself too stuck on a review or between ideas to actually get to working on it, but now is the time. "Signatures" is very simple: It's an album-style (meaning somewhere in the range of 12-16 tracks) list of my absolute favourite songs from a particular artist. The idea originally came from noticing that, despite the fact that he has... I don't even feel like counting now... DOZENS of albums to his credit, no one has ever put together a 'greatest hits' type of compilation for the great Vaughn Benjamin that I know of and it's understandable why, actually. In general, it would probably require tons of work (and quite a bit of money) to put together, given all the various producers/labels he spent his majestic career working alongside but also... how do we register "hits" when it comes to someone like Benjamin. The only charts you're likely to have ever found his work on would have been very specific album sales and it doesn't appear that he's stacked what we typically regard as 'popular' releases, despite just how oddly passionate and LOYAL his fans are and have been from very early on during the days of Midnite. So, it's my thought that compiling such a list would be most interesting if you individualize  it. The work he left, unlike almost anyone else, is SO personal. I've had conversations with people about songs that I barely even recall, but they literally changed their entire way of thinking or became THAT moment where that light bulb came on in their head and led them to inheriting the KINGDOM of this wonderful music.

And "Signatures" was born. Here is my own personal list of favourite songs from one of the greatests to ever do it. Signatures Vol. 1: Akae Beka.

{Note: The only basis for songs being on this list is how much I enjoy them. That is all}

{Note 2: Songs are listed in absolutely no particular order, although I will say which is my single favourite, as I typically do. I also intentionally did not write them in the order they appear. I jumped around purposefully}

{Note 3: This was VERY difficult and I may do a second disc at some point, but Vol. 2 of this series will be Lutan Fyah}

1. 'Enter'

......for now and forever. The aptly named 'Enter', in retrospect, was probably one of the songs that made everything begin to 'click' for me when came to Vaughn Benjamin's music. Set as one of the gems from the "Jah Grid" album (which was outstanding and also included the truly MAMMOTH 'Before I Lose My Strength'), 'Enter' just had a VIBE about. There was something.... almost mysterious to it with its very focused sound but Benjamin went ALL OVER THE PLACE atop the I Grade produced riddim. For me, 'Enter' is both an emotional ["If you plan fi live good, open Jah door and enter"] and a knowledge ["Dem ah listen and dem ah search the entire universe fi hear Jah voice echo chamber"] offering with the artist saying that if you choose to accept The Almighty, alllllllll of this is available to you. Symbolically, it said that for me in regards to his music. I did accept it and, looking back, it was one of the greatest decisions I ever made... for now and foreverrrrrr ('Enter', EASILY, has one of THE coolest endings to a song that I have ever heard).

2. 'Just Decided'

Perspectives will have to realign. The first of a pair of ganja tunes on this list (and, now that I  think about it, the other is fairly similar in terms of how it's written), I've held 'Just Decided' in increasing standing throughout the years because of a pair of very simple and basic reasons: It is extremely well written (DUH!) and it SOUNDS GREAT! Ignore the first of those for a second (because you know who wrote it) and focus on the latter. 'Just Decided' is DYNAMIC! A quality seldom associated with the music of Benjamin, that Fifth Son Records licked riddim was downright blissful! It hits a plane and just SITS DOWN right there for such a wonderful musical moment. Probably THE most dynamic tune you'll find here and one which has always stuck with me. 

3. 'Black Mamba'

True nature. This list is compiled of tunes which are signature moments for me, personally. Because of that and in the name of pure standouts in terms of recognizability, 'Black Mamba' may just be the single biggest 'hit' you'll see here. The Andrew 'Bassie' Campbell produced drop was the loudest of chimes found on "King's Bell" (which released a truly disturbing thirteen years ago) (time does not "fly". It SOARS) and from the very second I laid ears on it, 'Black Mamba' has stuck with me. Another selection finding a powerful blend of deep and penetrating messages with an overall extremely difficult to shake sound, AT ANY GIVEN TIME IF I AM SINGING AN AKAE BEKA SONG IN MY HEAD.... it's probably 'Black Mamba'.

4. 'In Awe'

....IN AWE. I used to be quite fond of using the term "skeletal" to describe some of the music of Vaughn Benjamin. When I did (and still occasionally do) use it, it was in reference to a song where he didn't.... seem to pay much attention to the riddim going on behind him. Maybe there wasn't a great (or ANY AT ALL) connection between the vocals and the music and it, of course, had some type of an impact on the overall sound of the tune. 'In Awe', the title track of an album from the aforementioned Fifth Son Records from a dozen years ago was definitely SKELETAL. It was also pretty much without flaw and, even to this day, a tune which has this certain vibe about it which I find FLOORING. It is an absolutely DEVASTATING track within a certain simplicity and one where the artist explains his observance of The Almighty and also, coincidentally, explains my observance of the song he is singing. 

5. 'Grapes Of Wrath'

Magma lava.While not new to my ears (and probably the single oldest tune you'll find here) I have to say that it wasn't until fairly recently -- maybe the last... two or three years or so -- when I REALLY became a fan of a tune which might just have one of the biggest supporting groups of any of Akae Beka's the CLASSIC 'Grapes Of Wrath'. Prevously, my interaction with this tune was as a live tune where it, apparently, was a favourite of Benjamin's to perform and you'll find countless instances of him doing renditions of the tune all over the world during his travels. Given the kind of spontaneous and organic nature of the live performances (and of this specific song, in general), I've come to regard 'Grapes Of Wrath' as, EASILY, one of the greatest freestyles ever. That's only in respect to the rest of Benjamin's work, I most certainly could be wrong, but I don't feel like he spent a lot of time actually writing it and what ERUPTED from him when it was created was a cauldron of genius, leaving no stone unturned and covering an endless story of themes in an exceptionally emotional and fiery way from the chanter. 

"Dem lack di counsel of di elder

Lost di reference of di daughta

I man a Rasta, living amongst di people like a waiting disaster

Love dem order

Dem seh dem love di sun, but di sun dry up dem water"

6. 'Sha-tee'

Dilly dally. Buried on an album which wasn't the greatest and has largely gone forgotten -- 2008's "Maschaana" from Natural Vibes -- you will find the TORRENTIAL 'Sha-tee'. You will find a somewhat similar and far more popular tune later on here but, for my opinion, the very clever social commentary with a spiritual core that was 'Sha-tee' will always have a place amongst my favourites as well. Benjamin gives his listeners absolutely nothing in the way of relief (and you deserve none!) in geting his point across and though it may take even more effort than it typically does with his music (and it always does take at least some), the idea behind 'Sha-tee' and the LYRICS are in the stars!

"Jah is the Cab, the taxi driver is the cabbie

Jah is The Ruler over already -

Over twister and tsunami

Over faith and destiny

Over tranquility and without no partiality"

7. 'Same Boat We'

Magnificent edifice. My absolute favourite Akae Beka album ever??? That would require some thought but an album DEFINITELY in the conversation would be the MAMMOTH "Beauty For Ashes" and 'Same Boat We' has become that album's signature offering for me. It's almost difficult for me to slice "Beauty For Ashes" now because it sits so succinctly as a completed unit with Benjamin absolutely DISSECTING the idea of unity... grinding it down to a fine, powdery substance. For its part, in particular, 'Same Boat We' was simple and didn't try to do much with its sound but when you got into its lyrical direction - IT ASCENDED! It grew wings and soared to the heavens. From an incredibly local level, to a continental one, to a one of the highest degree ["MILK WAY GALAXY"], Benjamin would bring everyone EVERYWHERE together and do so in an entirely unforgettable way.

8. 'Hemp Scroll'

Awareness & alertness. 'Hemp Scroll' was kinda mesmerizing. It was. There was a very... 'light' sonic feel to it with the artist adopting an almost robotic delivery and somewhere in the midst of it all, the listener gets LOST and I mean that in the best way possible. All of these years later, 'Hemp Scroll' which featured on the "Free Indeed" set (an album which didn't have a very big release but was delightfully very well regarded in its day if I recall correctly) has only grown in stature, despite starting somewhere amongst the stars. Ever the proponent of the herb, Benjamin (as I alluded to in regards to 'Just Decided') weaves an all-encompassing which climbs so many different mountains. You'll hear ganja tunes and, if you think about, they're either really specific -- as far as maybe covering a single incident than someone went through -- or very broad. 'Just Decided' and 'Hemp Scroll', oddly, were both. They both dealt with a variety of different aspects but did so with incredible detail and both are utter joys to listen to. 

9. 'Negus I Rastafari'

Jah deliver I. As the kids say today, 'Negus I Rastafari' was "built different". This tune had a sense of drama and a seriously high level (by comparison to Benjamin's catalogue) of emotion to it which catches you initially. What keeps your interest along with the vibes (as it always does) are the words you hear spoken. 'Negus I Rastafari' is another track that comes off as a vibe. It is very organic and has the feeling that parts of it are spontaneous and came as much from the heart as from one of the most brilliant minds Reggae (or any other kind of) music has ever encountered. A praising tune to the bone, 'Negus I Rastafari' also touches a wider variety of topics during its time ultimately tying them back to the centralizing theme of bringing honour and praise to His Majesty. This is probably my second favourite song Benjamin has ever done and the only selection you'll find from the Rastar collaboration present here and, to my ears, IT IS MAGICAL!

10. 'New Race'

Content & satisfied. Of course the SHATTERING 'New Race' makes this list and, in terms of quality, it probably makes its top half. These days, I sometimes have ISSUES listening to this gem from Higher Bound's "Hail The King"... emotionally, FOR SOME STRANGE REASON, it does things to me! It makes me happy. It makes me melancholy. It energizes me! There is a very subtle but very powerful and downright ABNORMAL quality to "New Race", simply in terms of the sound of it. It is stunning! When you get into the meat of the matter it doesn't dull either as Benjamin takes the listener on a knowledge-crammed journey which centers around, of course, His Imperial Majesty. There's nothing dissimilar there from, literally, dozens (if not hundreds) of other tunes that Benjamin has done throughout the years, but what does separate 'New Race' was this gorgeous marriage of education & elegance ["Sound barrier bursting into new rays of life. Benevolence of Jah, invite"]. On a list of favourites, you will find nothing that hit the notes that 'New Race' does and does EFFORTLESSLY.

11.'Ever Was So'

Come down fast. 'Ever Was So' featured on the double disc opus-ish "Standing Ground" of Fifth Son Records. I won't waste too much of your time here, I'll be brief. 'EVER WAS SO' IS MY FAVOURITE AKAE BEKA SONG EVER. It's also one of the greatest songs of its kind that I have ever heard and do you know what "kind" it is? 'Ever Was So' is a praising tune. It's a song giving praise and honour to His Imperial Majesty. Have you heard a few of those type of songs? Maybe just one or two or so??? If you've listened to a Roots Reggae album, you've probably ran across at least three or four of them and if you're this interested in reading a post like this, you've probably heard HUNDREDS. The argument could be made (and I would be in support of it) that THE ENTIRE GENRE OF ROOTS REGGAE EXISTS (at least in part) TO PRAISE THE KING. Rare has anyone made praise sound like THIS! There's something exquisitely haunting about 'Ever Was So' (like that COOL and subtle backing singing) that likely gives further weight to the impact that it makes - an impact which will stay with me for the rest of my days.

12. 'Royal Tribe'

Excitement like a fever. 'Royal Tribe' makes this list as somewhat of a surprise to me. When I was planning it out and getting a big list together in my mind, I would have never thought that the tune would have been included in the final group but it belongs here and probably even more so than a few of these other tunes that I so love. 'Royal Tribe' was interesting for several reasons but the one standing tallest these days is the way in which it is written (shocking!). The song is one empowering women and speaking on their importance in society and, even more compelling, how women are THE CENTER of human interaction and PROGRESSION. To accomplish this, Benjamin uses the idea of a TRIBE.... and then, LITERALLY, a HIVE in showing just how nature regards its female figures and in how high of an esteem they are held in. It is a BEAUTIFUL selection and one that has stuck with me mightily in the three years since it was part of "Polarities" a, perhaps, underrated collection courtesy of IGR. 

13. 'The Gad'

Longtime. Were several people to make a list like this one, I would think that the song from my list that you're most likely to see present several more times would be the infamous 'The Gad'. This tune was.... seemingly Benjamin opening his mind and just POURING out everything he could find at that particular moment. What resulted was a wholly overwhelming musical experience for anyone who has ever dared to undertake the task of deciphering what the artist is saying here. A large source of its lasting (and definitely original) interest generated came in the fact that, even more than most of Akae Beka's music, it was pretty hard to comprehend what is being said on 'The Gad'. Vaughn Benjamin has a tendency to mumble and when you combine mumbling with speed, what you get can be (and was).... puzzling. However, as I said, beneath the obvious sound, 'The Gad' had loads to offer and I would argue THAT has maybe not equaled the attraction to it for what is most immediately heard, but has become a significant reason why more familiar fans, like You and I, continue to return to the now nearly TWENTY YEAR OLD tune.

"It's a matter of human pride, how you treat the I

Who nah go hear ahgo surely die"

The song has a heart that is almost entirely spiritual (DUH) but 'The Gad' goes in a variety of deliciously varied directions. The one that's covered deepest, arguably, is just how people relate and interact with one another. He gets into things like family structure in the midst of it all and it is.... CANDY to the ears of someone like myself. I also have to mention something rarely talked about in regards to 'The Gad' - the riddim carrying it. The golden track was typical IGR produced magic and featured, amongst other beautiful moments, a spot where the masterful Achis Reggae favourite, Tuff Lion, is allowed to place his stamp on the tune as only he could. If by some chance you missed this one, even more than any other selection here, 'The Gad' demands patience. It is a trait that, should you have quite a bit of it, will literally hand you the keys to a very large kingdom.

14. 'Let Babylon Go' featuring Danny I

Searching within. Much like the aforementioned "Beauty For Ashes" set, this compilation would be incomplete without some sort of representation from "Portals" (another album in the conversation for being my absolute favourite from Akae Beka) and that question would be between three tunes. There's 'Ideals of The Emperor', 'Like Rhyme' -- both of whom were terribly difficult to cut out here -- and the track that I would ultimately settle on, the GORGEOUS transitional 'Let Babylon Go' featuring oft Vaughn Benjamin collaborator (if such a person exist) and OBVIOUS FAN, Danny I. I love Danny I's music and I always have (Danny I has an old song called 'Lion As A Rulah' which probably sits amongst the top 40 or so tunes that I have ever heard.... from like ANYONE, EVER) and his presence on 'Let Babylon Go' really gives it a very autobiographical texture as he outlines what, personally, brought him to Rastafari.

"Many years with natty dread - half the time a Rastaman

Cause man would be the first to admit: Man did ah do nuff wrong

Many years of search within, til I found The Higher Man

Til I overstood King David's words, with the Songs of Solomon

And I let babylon go

Outta mi heart

Outta mi soul"

BOOM! For his part, Benjamin's approach is broader in saying that, essentially, Rastafari is the way to overcome a variety of issues in one's life ["In war and in peace..."]. Combined, and with a beautifully nearly ever-present horn in the backdrop, the two produce an EPIC selection and one which has always been a standout for me on an album BRIMMING with such offerings.

15. 'Dem Kinda Heights'

A document. These days the "Be Strong" set has kind of become somewhat of a packaged deal with "In Awe". In my memory the two FSR produced sets share pot of tunes and I find myself generally and largely unsure of which of the two exactly contains big tunes such as 'Dandylion', 'Pscyh Ops', the MAMMOTH 'Music To Honour I King' and others appear on... but I do know that I love some of them. Along with both title tracks, definitely 'Dem Kinda Heights' has gone to garner my 'highest' of respect in the eleven years since its release. Though the song comes through with these giant and downright royal sounding horns (almost as if they are signaling the arrival of some type or royalty) (and you can make your own leaps from there) (as have I), 'Dem Kinda Heights' is somewhat ponderous. It's a grind and it takes a while to get where it is going, but it is also SHARP as a razor. What I've taken from it these days is that it stands as an inspirational piece. Benjamin presents the "Heights" as a variety of different things such as love and even knowledge. Though, as you would expect in his work, it doesn't have that stereotypical FEELING that such a vibed tune would normally come with. As I said, 'Dem Kinda Heights' ain't easy! It requires work and a whole heap of attention on behalf of the listener. Give it that and, as you can see with its presence here, it's good enough to literally become one of the best songs you've ever heard. 

Overall, the challenge of doing something like this is infectious. I'm already working on the next installment (will likely be Lutan Fyah) but in this particular case, the unusual nature of the journey I've had to BEGIN my comprehension of this man's amazing work (and I consider myself to STILL be at the beginning of that journey), is reflected here which was my main goal from doing this list. I would expect and HOPE that most people would have drastically different lists as the music of Akae Beka is received in so many ways. These are mine. Agree. Disagree. Flame on (biggup Machel). Do whatever! But when you do think of your own favourites, ENJOY that beautiful trip back through your memory. It is a SWEET time.