Not too long ago at all, we told you about the new EP release from Statian star, Ziggi Recado, "Elevation" from Oneness Records; a couple of months on, and he's already back at work with a brand new tune for his own label, Nayamari Music, 'Head Up'. Let me just say, first of all, that the riddim on this tune is ABSOLUTELY SUBLIME! THIS THING IS GOLD! A quick glance through the credits reveals a pair of familiar names which would well explain the quality of the musicianship here as both Jah David [Zion High Productions] & Tippy I [I Grade Records] are amongst the players of instruments behind 'Head Up' - giving it at least a baseline of expectations (and results). To his credit, Ziggi doesn't waste the moment and continues his winning run of form with another impressive track. This one speaking to keeping focused (and HAPPY) in the face of outside factors trying to steer your decision away.
"Caan mess wid mi mind, dem nuh able
Walk mi own road, mi nuh follow dem fable
Mi destiny set, it written pon di cable
Dem chat plenty but di works nuh stable"
Can't imagine it's happening this year (though I'd take it if it is) but HOPEFULLY 2027 brings us a new full project from Ziggi Recado as it appears he's hitting his stride once again.
"Brightside" by Ziggy Marley [Tuff Gong - 2026]
I've never been the biggest fan of legit Reggae star, Ziggy Marley, and his latest set, "Brightside", most certainly isn't going to change that. I did give it an honest shot but, unfortunately, "Brightside"appears to embody what I don't like about his work. There's a certain... Folk-ishness or Country-ishness about his sound that just doesn't vibe with me for some reason or another and I hear it (whatever IT may be) all over this one. That being said, I'd be pretty damn surprised if "Brightside" isn't nominated for a Grammy next year and it will be amongst the favourites to take home the trophy once again for Ziggy Marley (he'll probably win).
"Love And Energy" by Ky-Mani Marley [Konfrontation Muzik + DubShot Records]
I've also never been the biggest fan of Ziggy's brother, Ky-Mani, though he has made music over the years that I have enjoyed (namely an album from a century or two ago, "Many More Roads") (also had a song called 'Royal Vibes' that I really liked; think it was on the "Radio" album) and he's also back with a brand new album of his own for 2026, "Love And Energy". Though I'm not really a fan and SURELY because of its length, there're things that I've enjoyed on "Love And Energy" as opposed to "Brightside". Standouts include both the openers, the title track and 'New Creature', as well as 'One Family' and 'War Inna Babylon'. Ky-Mani calls in the heavy artillery as "L&A" features a helping hand by the likes of Anthony B, Gyptian, Sizzla Kalonji, Agent Sasco, Lutan Fyah and others. I'm not going to blow it up and say IT'S FANTASTIC [it's not] (I would've reviewed if it were) but I have had a little fun with "Love And Energy" and you'll probably like this one (another damn near lock of a Grammy nominee) more than I do.
Bomboclxxt Now Riddim [Misik Muzik - 2026]
I most certainly AM a fan of Suku from Ward 21 and his latest creation, the Bomboclxxt Now Riddim has not done a damn thing to dampen that... at least not as far as a creation. Strictly in terms of the actual riddim, itself - the Bomboclxxt Now is a winner. It is the aggressive, legit, hardcore Dancehall that you've come to expect from Suku after all of these years. What happens on it when turned over to even some very talented vocalists, however, is largely a different story. Most... MOST of the tunes on this riddim just don't work for me and, again, that isn't just from some random up and comer struggling in the moment (although there're a number of those as well). The likes of Spragga Benz, Delly Ranks, Lexxus, Kiprich, Craigy T, Bling Dawg and others all turn up with relatively flat performances across something that you would think would be right up their proverbial alleys.... but not everyone misses the mark.
Reigning supreme is Sean Paul with the sickening 'Steal Machine', also scoring well are both Wayne Wonder and Wayne Wonder's alter ego, Supriz (Supriz actually does a little better, in my opinion) as well as Jah Izrehl who absolutely scorches with the very clever 'Seh No'. The Bomboclxxt Now also has a version 2.0, featuring some (many... like 20 of them) of the lesser known artists on the riddim, as well as Digital Riley. Actually, though you may not know most (or any at all) of their names, 2.0 is better between the two. Here, Uncle Finch, Andre Blackx, Crazy G, I-Jah Yout, Cute Axe (who!), Kwanele and others still turn up with solid offerings.
"Higher Meditation" by Anthony B [Greensleeves Records - 2007]
Obviously I've found my way back to the [hard-to-believe] now NINTEEN YEARS OLD "Higher Meditation" via Anthony B's latest creation, the lovely "World Of Love". Regardless of the reason that brought me here... I'm here and "Higher Meditation" IS an excellent album, especially when you haven't heard it in awhile. The set was another product of a very powerful union between Anthony B and Frenchie & all of the fine people at Maximum Sound and was the direct descendant of the even stronger "Black History" album from a couple of years prior (before that was the SOLID "Powers Of Creation" project as well) ["Stand guard, nuh let dem hurt you!"]. These albums, in my opinion, are highlighted by HEAVY but INFECTIOUS Roots Reggae music (with a little Dancehall mixed in). It's the genuine article but it is very catchy and that's the signature Maximum Sound (if there exists such a thing) for me. That is exactly what "Higher Meditation" was. These days, a tune called 'Hold On', that I didn't remember AT ALL, is absolutely killing me ["Dutty babylon, mi nah need yuh ointment!"] along with the typical highlights, 'Just Can't Live That Way', the title track, 'One Chalice' ["ALL WHEN MI OLD AND GREY, MI STILL AH SMOKE THE HERBS EVERYDAY!"], 'Jahx5' (that song is literally called 'Jah, Jah, Jah, Jah, Jah') and of course its pair of combinations, 'Real Wariors' and 'Honour To Marcus', with Turbulence and Natty King, respectively. I'm presuming that ship has sailed but, DAMN wouldn't it be nice if Anthony B & Maximum Sound linked up again for another set!
First up this week is the latest from a longtime favourite of ours who is hopefully set to spend more time in the studio this year as the brilliant Reemah sets out her brand new tune, the equally sagacious 'Against It All'. I'm sure I'm not the only one who is STARVING for a new album from the Cruzan word champion and each and every time she sets out with a new release (as infrequent as it may be) she does nothing but add fuel to that fire. 'Against It All' does not become an exception as Reemah BLAZES as usual, this time along with Rymshot Music and the great Dean Pond.
"Ever bless and a respect overall
Wrong over right weh dem reject overall
It's just a vibe weh awaken overall
Cuz nuff a wolf inna sheep clothing overall"
"Ganja Farmer" by Marlon Asher [VAS Productions - 2026]
Someone who certainly hasn't been a stranger in the studio has been Trini burner, Marlon Asher, who just issued his most recent full length set, "Safe", last year. Well, the famed Ganja Farmer is back with a new EP release..... "Ganja Farmer", in celebration of the 20th anniversary of what remains his most popular song to date (I say all the time how fast it seems time flies; in this case it definitely does seem like it's been twenty years since 'Ganja Farmer' dropped. I'm almost surprised it hasn't been longer, actually). The seven track set features contributions from the likes of Masicka, Prince Swanny and Major Seven and it also carries a remastered version of its legendary namesake - and the general theme of all of the selections revolve around the same thing. I also HAVE to mention what I believe to be the single from "Ganja Farmer", 'Ganja Man', on which Marlon Asher taps the Ganjaville Riddim from our old friends at Oneness Records. That song is EXCELLENT!
"Winner" by Norris Man [Home And Away Music]
Many many moons ago, the great Norris Man released an album by the name of "Hey Woman". It was largely built on love songs and.... well.... well it was kinda terrible. It wasn't a good album. Earlier this year (on Valentine's Day), Norris Man thought he'd take another swipe at it with "Winner" and.... well.... I can't (I could) necessarily call it TERRIBLE but "Winner" is not a good album. One or two selections here (namely 'Doors Are Open' and maybe 'That Someone') prevent this one from being a complete lost but "Winner" isn't anything that you need to hear if you haven't already. I wasn't DYING for a new album from Norris Man and he's damn sure earned the right to do whatever he wants musically (and "Winner" is released on his own Home And Away label) but, again, "Winner" is no good.
Ziggi Recado
It seems as if I actually went quiet, for the most part, on the extraordinarily gifted Ziggi Recado. He'd turned in a few tunes that I wasn't particularly thrilled with and I didn't keep up with his output as well as I had in previous years. However, 2026 has seen a striking return to form and he's dropped a number of big tunes in its first half, alone. Arguably the biggest of them all is his WICKED latest (to my knowledge), 'One Step Forward' which I knew had the handiwork of the geniuses at Oneness Records even prior to my knowing that it was their production (I'[d recognize those horns ANYWHERE). 'One Step Forward' is brilliant and it's easily one of the finest tunes that I've heard from anyone so far this year. Ahead of that, Oneness also released the infectious 'Boom Meditation' which is another big tune (that riddim on that song is MAD!)... and you know where my mind is headed (keep making singles together...). A big new album from Recado would look LOVELY in the year's second half but until/unless then, we're all going to benefit from one of the genre's biggest talents seemingly on a course this year to destroy everything, everywhere with that quality.
Ziggi's also released a couple of songs via Nayamari Music (pretty sure that's his label), 'Same Realness' & 'Trod Straight'; both are solid but the latter, especially, is top notch.
The I:Rob Riddim [Mizik Muzik + Billionaire Bootcamp]
And this one kinda fits both in the current and past senses as it DELIGHTFULLY popped back up on my radars a month or so ago courtesy of a new compilation album release (and I was so DAMN happy about it that I nearly slapped a review on it). You'll have to go back two decades to when a tune by the name of 'Talk' by the talented Mr. Peppa became a sizable hit (and it's probably still his biggest hit right now). The tune was produced by Ward 21 and came atop their high-tech I:Rob Riddim. Who would have known that, in early 2026, the riddim would have a remastered compilation. That's exactly what I stumbled upon and have been KILLING ever since I noticed it. I'll give top honours to Peppa here but he most certainly was not alone in scoring on the I:Rob. Bounty Killer, Spragga Benz (whose trademark 'The Pusher' is excellent), the Ward themselves who take two shots at their riddim, Vybz Kartel and even Anthony B all turn in solid offerings (as does, to a lesser degree, Mad Cobra whose 'Red Eye' is just... very strange at times) on the I:Rob Riddim.
"Path To Success" by Torch [Bad-Hasai Muzyk - 2026]
First up is an impressive EP from an impressive artist; both, currently, receiving an impressive amount of attention as Torch touches with "Path To Success". Torch always seems like he has something going on. It may not be "front page news" but he's always got his hands into something and I was so happy to see the early response to "Path To Success" because it appears that he may've leveled up to some degree with this one. Actually listening to it, I can see what the hype has been about. The first thing that likely jumps out at you is the artillery, in terms of guests, that Torch brings in. In just seven tunes here, Torch works alongside Junior Kelly, Gentleman and Turbulence; so, OBVIOUSLY, someone thought a lot of this project and put a great deal of effort (and money) into making it happen. All three guests turn in fine performances but, to my opinion, Junior Kelly (more on him in a second) stands the tallest as he joins on 'Perseverance', which is the single best thing that I hear on all of "Path To Success". Also check fine solo efforts, 'Don't Give Up' and 'Same Energy' (which is simply outstanding). There's some VERY impressive material on this one and I'm glad that the masses appear to agree.
The Resilience Riddim [Reggae Unite Records - 2025]
Biggup Reggae Unite Records who're back with their ambitious latest project, the Resilience Riddim. Two things about this one caught my attention even before I'd even heard anything from it: The first was the fact that included amongst the five vocal selections was one called 'Ask For' by none other than the ALWAYS welcomed (but damn near reclusive) Montserratian chanter Jah Marnyah. Anytime you attach Marnyah's name to a release, you got me! The other thing that was noteworthy was the fact that, accompanying the Resilience Riddim, was a simultaneously released dub version of the project, courtesy of Sound Guyz & Selekta Zalem. There is some BEAUTIFUL music on this combined set which is well worth a look and listen. Joining Jah Marnyah in handling the vocals are the likes of WELL ESTEEMED veteran, Prezident Brown, Teflon Young King (who is probably almost forty by now), the very young Jah Frozen and others. The Resilience Riddim is a very nice one that reached in late 2025 and figures to be on my players for a bit and should be the same for you as well.
"Rasta Should Be Deeper" by Junior Kelly [Cleopatra Records - 2025]
Kind of an odd one here but I remember seeing that Junior Kelly has a forthcoming remake of a big older tune of his by the name of 'Rasta Should Be Deeper' and I had no idea why and I also had no idea that it would be, essentially, the first single and title track off of a forthcoming album by the same name featuring several of Kelly's biggest tunes remade for someone named Cleopatra Records (had no idea who they were but they've apparently released this album on a BEAUTIFULLY packaged CD as well if you're still interested in physical media) (and you are). The remake/cover circuit in Reggae has never sat well with me. A few years ago, Luciano release such a set that turned out pretty bad. Back in da day, Bushman sang an album full of old Peter Tosh tunes and I was never a fan of Sanchez' CONSTANT singing of other people's songs with a Reggae washing. HOWEVER, perhaps (probably) due to the fact that I had no expectations AT ALL... "Rasta Should Be Deeper" was better than I was expecting... at least on the Reggae side. Along with redoing some of his own material such as the title track, 'Baby Can We Meet' and, of course 'Love So Nice'. Kelly also does some covers from other artists such as Bob's 'Could You Be Loved', 'Red Red Wine' from UB40 and Eddy Grant's 'Electric Avenue'. Now those??? They're pretty awkward at times but I'm still relatively happy with the Reggae side of "Rasta Should Be Deeper" (and biggup Eddy Grant).
"Tippy I Meets Nonpalidece: Hecho En Jamaica DuB" by Nonpalidece [Impronta Music - 2026]
Nonpalidece from out of Argentina teams up with the brilliant Tippy I of I Grade Records and the Zion I Kings to make one GORGEOUS piece of music (actually seven pieces) on "Hecho En Jamaica DuB". I won't make this too complicated: If you're looking for some really nice background (and I'm someone who plays music in my house when no one [HUMAN] is here because I think that the plants enjoy it) music, here's your perfect choice. If you want something just to relax to, here's your perfect choice. You want just some NICE sound?? HERE YOU GO! "Hecho En Jamaica DuB" is ABSOLUTELY LOVELY! Along with the instrumentals and production, you'll also recognize some of the vocalists as the likes of Lutan Fyah, Micah Shemaiah, Mykal Rose, Alborosie and others are featured as are the great Bongo Herman & the immortal Sly Dunbar.
"Better Days" by Chuck Fenda [5th Element Records - 2004]
I'll spare you the details (at least for now) but Chuck Fenda has been back on my radars as of late courtesy of one Jah Garvey (something coming soon) and, STILL, in my opinion Fenda's finest piece of work and the one I most often go back to is his BEAUTIFUL 5th Element produced set, "Better Days" (I hesitate to call it his debut album but I actually think it is). "Better Days" was absolutely loaded and it represented a version of Chuck Fenda who was well within his ascendancy so it was STACKED with big tunes. The biggest draw would have been 'I Swear' ["GIVE I STRENGTH, OH JAH, SO I CAN GO THROUGH! NEVER PRAISED NO ONE LIKE I PRAISED YOU!"] but there was the title track, there was 'The Prayer', 'Jah Sight', 'Mama', 'Serious Times' (which also had a nice run, if I recall correctly), 'Haffi Win' and the MAMMOTH 'Better Days'. Some of this album, I'll admit, hasn't aged necessarily the best (there's a song, 'Show Love' with Luciano, which isn't very good at all, listening to it now) but its heavy class remains just that. CLASS.
First up this week is something that comes as a bit of a disappointment as Eesah recently dropped his brand new (and well anticipated by me) album, "Success", for Evidence Music. Though I'd heard some of the clips of the music and had an idea of what to expect, I guess it didn't hit me, fully, as to what I was listening to until I had the entire thing in my hands. "Success" isn't at all BAD necessarily and it does showcase the ample talents of its star but it's about half Reggae/half R&Bish and, again, I guess I shouldn't have been surprised but... damn I was hoping for a big Reggae album to close 2025 out on. There is still material here worth listening to, even on the non-Reggae end ('Rise My People' is actually pretty decent) but it isn't the album I was looking forward to hearing - at least half of it isn't.
'Pull D Pin' by Machel Montano, Skinny Fabulous and Lil Natty & Thunda [Monk Music - 2025]
Of course, we're nearing the most magical time of the year and music from some of the biggest stars of Soca has already began to steadily come out of Trinidad (and other places) and amongst the very best tunes that I've heard thus far has been this MASSIVE combination shot featuring frequent collaborator Skinny Fabulous with Lil Natty & Thunda alongside the great Machel Montano. When I got what was going on here, I was actually a little surprised that no one (that I know of) had taken this angle on a Soca song before because it works to perfection as, once again, Montano links with Skinny Fabulous; this time bringing in big-voiced Lil Natty (hardly ever talk about Lil Natty & Thunda (a duo) but Natty's voice is fantastic for what he does with it) and Thunda from Grenada to drop a grenade all over Carnival.
'We Doh Play' by Destra [Krazi Music]
Also getting the season started on a good note is the incomparable Queen of Bacchanal, Destra, who tells all the absolute obvious with 'We Doh Play' (as if we haven't known that about her from looooooooooong time). Love the horns on this one and how it sort of bubbles below total chaos for the most part but, in a glimpse or two, it crosses that threshold and makes the dust raise. Hopefully we get an album this season from Destra; as she's already dropped a couple of nice tunes and it's looking like another stellar Carnival from the greatest to ever do it for me.
'Pass Di Chalice' by Cali P [Cali P (song has three different labels on it)]
Seems a minute since last we heard from loooooooongtime favourite, Cali P (hasn't been too long at all. He had an album just last year) but he's back with a SWEET ganja tune, 'Pass di Chalice' for Mouthwatering Records (I THINK). Cali P's been trying a few different things in recent years in terms of his style but this one settles on ultra-familiar, downright sugary terrain. More of this from Cali P in the new year wouldn't be too bad a'tall.
"No gimmi nuttin else, a di chronic a fi wi choice
Tell mi what's di cost, cah mi ready fi pay di price"
The Volume Riddim [Greensleeves Records - 2000]
I'll wait until next week (probably) to tell you exactly how a random quarter-century old riddim has made its way back on my players but right now I'm just going to suggest that you join me and go diving in the vault of Greensleeves riddim albums because you too may stumble upon a GEM like I did in this Ward 21 produced piece, the Volume. As was the norm at the time, the Volume was absolutely LOADED with big names as, appearing alongside the Ward themselves (they had two tracks, one, 'One More Start A War', was a combination featuring Ele & Wayne Marshall. Ele also had another solo tune, 'Fake Man', while Marshall had two other combinations, with Harry Toddler and Baby G, respectively)) were the likes of Bounty Killer, Mad Cobra, TOK, Kiprich, the oft-brilliant Madd Anju, Mr. Vegas, Lexxus and Beenie Man who, arguably, reigned supreme as he absolutely SLAUGHTERED the Volume with the stellar 'Moses Cry'.
'Who Are We' by Turbulence [Unemployment Records - 2025]
Gotta start off with something that's definitely put a a smile on my face over the last week or so and biggup Filomuzik and Unemployment Records from out of Italy for getting the best from one of Reggae's most enigmatic figures that I've heard recently. Turbulence MOST CERTAINLY has not been one of the most consistent of artists in Reggae music but I still maintain that he sits on a gold mine of talent which places him in very thin company. Alongside the aforementioned producer and label from Southern Italy, Turbulence turns up with 'Who Are We' which is, CLEARLY, the best song I have heard from him in 2025 and... probably the best in quite a few years (off the top of my head, I would probably say from since 2021 but it could very well be even longer than that).
"Who are we, who are we-
Without His Majesty?
Who am I, who am I-
Without The Most High?
Who are we, who are we-
Without His Majesty?
Who am I, who am I-
Without Rastafari?
I'm nothing but a drowning victim waiting to be saved
Jah hand me lifeguard inna this tidal wave
Lost and confused inna this deep, dark cave
Jah hand me lantern just to light my way HOME
Rastafari say: Who do I think I am to disobey?
According to your works, that is how you get your pay
Mi ask them this without delay"
'Who Are We' is a scorchingly clever praise, backed by a GORGEOUS riddim (and notice how it changes and electrifies as the song goes along) making it not only, as I said, Turbulence's best this year but likely one of the best from anyone. BOOM.
'The Days' by Busy Signal [Zion High Productions 2025]
I'm always looking forward to seeing just who one of my (if not my absolute) favourite production units, the vaunted Zion I Kings, will work with next and I have to say I was quite shocked when I saw that next in the offering was the ridiculously gifted Busy Signal and I was also damn excited. I'll temper my HOPES (You know what I want) and just deal with what's at hand. While the link maybe surprising, the results most certainly are not. The ZIK's record is what it is, they've been amongst the most consistently high quality outfits in all of Reggae music since their inception (INDIVIDUALLY AND TOGETHER) and, in case you haven't paid attention, Busy Signal is one of the most versatile stars the genre has ever produced. The man can literally rhyme about ANYTHING and shine whilst doing it. Their effort together, 'The Days', is a damn gem. It's a work of art... but you knew that already.
'Shout It Out' by Fikir Amlak [Saj Moor Dub - 2025]
Biggup our old friend, Saj Moor, who we told you about the last time we did one of these and is already back and this time, arguably, even stronger as the producer links up with the always active Fikir Amlak for 'Shout It Out'. I'll qualify this a bit: I haven't listened to Amlak's music a great deal over the years. Though I find myself crossing paths with his work every so often, I've never really focused much on him for one reason or another, but I have heard some of what he's done (he had a song a few years back that I REALLY liked called 'Royal Son'). So maybe you'll take that into consideration when I tell you that I'm quite confident in saying that 'Shout It Out' is the single best Fikir Amlak tune that I've heard thus far and maybe it becomes the impetus to get me to really tune him in (I'm pretty sure he has a new album now and even if he doesn't (or even if he does) the next one isn't too far away.... it NEVER is) Despite its title, 'Shout It Out' comes with this very cool and kind of building vibes to it (the riddim on this one is gold bar. Literally). It never fully ascends in terms of intensity but it remains with this gorgeous, almost mystical sound which Amlak puts to excellent usage in praise of The Almighty, while channeling the immortal Marcus Garvey.
The Tear Iron Riddim [Muscle Records - 2025]
Grrrr! Little late season madness courtesy of Muscle Records, check out the superb Tear Iron Riddim. I've been meaning to give this one its own mid-week feature post but it took me so damn long that it made more sense here. There're only five tracks on this riddim and I'm not crazy about all of them ('Jab Bull' by Island Prince is actually kind of annoying and I cannot remember the last time I called a song "annoying") but the absolute class of this thing is buried between a pair of tunes which are absolutely delicious. Greens blowtorch, Lavaman scorches everything everywhere with his 'Take Dat Down', while the queen reigns supreme as Fay-Ann Lyons provides the iron with its greatest threat, 'Show Me The Road'.
"A Piece Of The Blender: The Singles" by Everton Blender [Heartbeat Records - 1996]
I'm working on a review of an Everton Blender album so, of course, I'm going back and enjoying some of his older work so this EXCELLENT nearly thirty year old compilation is our blast from the past today, "A Piece Of The Blender". I've always appreciated how well this one was put together because it features songs such as 'World Corruption', 'Bob Marley' and 'Blend Dem' that would definitely get your attention and get your foot in the door; and when you settle in, also waiting for you were killers such as 'The Man', 'When You Wrong', 'Coming Harder' and others. I mention in the review how important I think it is for us to make sure that we pay the deserved respect to and CELEBRATE elders like the no seventy year old Blender while they're still around to be able to enjoy it. When you dig into much of his catalogue it isn't difficult because the man has given us some certified GEMS throughout his time.
Okay so, we have a couple of ANVILS this week and the first up is from someone who many would already deem a legend, the great Dezarie (who is, apparently, going by Dezarie Phoenix these days), who has struck with her first video clip EVER for the song 'Hold On'. The songs ranks as one of the biggest winners from her 2025 set, "Guardian". I actually remember a couple of other VI standouts, Vaughn Benjamin & Ras Batch, going fairly deep into their careers as well before doing a music video, so perhaps this comes as no surprise. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding its creation, the visual side of 'Hold On', unsurprisingly, matches the beauty of its audio. It's an amazing song with an amazing video from a very powerful human being.
'We Are One' by Arkaingelle & Fyahstone [Saj Moor Dub]
Next in is another big winner, courtesy a pair of old favourites of ours. The next [regular] review you'll read on these pages (there's an irregular one coming ahead of that) features work by Guyanese chanter, Arkaingelle who, as I have mentioned in the past, once made one of the greatest songs I have ever heard in my entire life (I'll remind you of that in the review). Now, Arkaingelle links up with a producer that we're well familiar with from out of Morocco by the name of Saj Moor Dub. You may recall his work on a label by the name of West Coast Studios, specifically (PROBABLY), with Ras Attitude. Back in 2014, WCS would set out the LOVELY Kif Kaf Riddim which would include offerings from the likes of Attitude, Perfect Giddimani and even Ras Indio. Also on the Kif Kaf was a tune called 'Rastaman Ah Chant' ["Kill dem wid di love, light shine so bright. Nyabinghi, no time fi no rewrite"].... from Arkaingelle, so this isn't the first time artist and producer have worked together and it doesn't sound like it from the level of musical chemistry we hear on 'We Are One'. Also present is gifted Trini veteran Fyahstone, with whom you are probably most likely to be familiar via his fairly recent work with Lion's Flow Productions, however (small world), about a decade ago, Fyahstone and the Arkaingelle made a song together by the name of 'Lion Can't Cool' so, again, to the surprise of absolutely no one given how well they sound together, the two vocalists on 'We Are One' also have some history with one another. Hopefully all three have some future together as well as 'We Are One' is excellent.
"We are all children of The Most High
Put away your sadness, don't cry
So stand up tall, be wise and use your third eye
Rastafari go before I"
The song is a unity piece and I do these things and attempt to place meaning into words but, delightfully, that is done for us here. Watch the video to the end and you will see the lovely message at its end. Hopefully there is much more activity from Saj Moor Dub as the maestro has relocated to California and placing himself amongst all of the seemingly never-ending Reggae activity in the area.
'Fling It Up' featuring Davido by Machel Montano [Monk Music]
Didn't take very long to get into the visuals for Machel Montano's 'Fling It Up' (which are exactly what you would expect them to be) before I... suddenly had no problem with it, despite it seeming quite random.The tune is probably coming up on completing its first year in existence and here's a video! Why? Who cares! The actual song, which features Davido, is CANDY, it is GORGEOUS Groovy Soca with a little KICK to it (check the surge about two minutes in) and from, arguably, still the biggest single name in the genre and on his own Monk Music label.
'Ginger' by Sean Paul [Dutty Rock Production]
Dancehall superstar, Sean Paul, may have a legit hit on his hands courtesy of his new tune, 'Ginger', which is outstanding and very OPEN as is Paul's tendency (at his absolute best, he's capable of making songs which fit entirely in Dancehall but are as accessible as anything that you will hear). 'Ginger' isn't quite there but I do expect it do some real damage. The video? The video for 'Ginger' is Ai'd to the gills and make no mistake about it: This video is creepy as hell.
'We Da Do It' by Boyzie [Wetty Beatz]
And lastly this week is a tune that is, easily, amongst the finest that I've heard from Soca in all of 2025, the delightfully over-chaotic 'We Da Do It' by Grenadian supernova, Boyzie. I've said it many times before, Boyzie is one of the 'best kept secrets' in all of Soca and that isn't true from the standpoint of actual fans of the genre but if you're more on the casual side, it's fairly likely, in my opinion, that you probably don't know who he is at all. Be that the case, now is a PERFECT time to become acquainted as he drops one of his finest efforts in years with 'We Da Do It'. Great workout song.
{Note: I don't know which label actually released this song. I know WB was involved, so I gave them the credit. Thank you and have a nice day}
"One Degree Hotter" by Machel Montano [Monk Music - 2025]
First up today (as I write this on, literally, THE morning of Carnival Monday), is Trini Soca superstar, Machel Montano, who returns with a brand new album for 2025, "One Degree Hotter" (very clever title because Montano received his degree last year). Anytime Montano reaches with... pretty much anything there is going to be a big response and, at least as far as albums go, I've been very happy to see the early attention being paid to "One Degree Hotter" has been very heavy. As usual, the project contains virtually Montano's entire season with maybe a song or two that either you haven't heard at all or that didn't get much run this year. All of his biggest efforts are here such as 'Home Is Where The Heart Is' with Bunji Garlin and Mical Teja, 'Bet Meh', 'Pepper Vine' alongside Drupatee & Lady Lava and Jus Now & DJ Private Ryan which netted Chutney Soca Monarch 2025 just last night (and is EXCELLENT), personal favourites 'Wave It' and 'Fallen Fetters' with Skinny Fabulous and Road March contender (and I may just wait a couple of days to post this, and come back to change this to RM Winner), 'Pardy' (YEP! He won). We got big names making Soca albums last year like Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons and Kes but 2025 figures to be a slow year with, EASILY, "One Degree Hotter" being the biggest shot thus far.
"Reggae Frequency" by Tiwony [7 Seals/Evidence Music - 2025]
'Future' by Sizzla & Bushman [Lockecity Music/Kalonji Music Production - 2025]
Apparently, we're not too long away from the next album release from Reggae legend, Sizzla Kalonji. Over the past few years or so, that hasn't been a very attractive thing to say as Kalonji has put out his fair share of substandard sets but if ever there were a reason to be intrigued by the forthcoming "Scrolls Of Kalonji" (besides the title being REALLY COOL), there's this first single and, on paper, MASSIVE combination 'Future'. The tune actually has the nerve to pair Sizzla with big voiced veteran singer, Bushman which, I THINK, is a first for them and comes courtesy of Lockecity. Just that, alone, well had my attention well before I laid ears on the tune and, as it turned out, the results were pretty strong as well as the two team up to push a vibe uplifting the young people of the world. If this is any indication (and DAMN, I HOPE IT IS), "Scrolls Of Kalonji" just may have a good chance to reverse recent course which would be great because I could really go for a GOOD SIzzla Kalonji album in 2025.
The Middle East Riddim [Greatest Friends/Evidence Music - 2025]
Biggup Greatest Friends Records from out of France (a label I'm most familiar with for their work with Queen Omega over the years) for their latest release, a cut of the Middle East Riddim, featuring a VERY interesting trio of singers. Last year, GFR would drop "Holding On", a solid set from King Lorenzo (who, suddenly, seems to be VERY popular these days and good for him!), which carried a tune by the name of 'Let Them Try' ["It's a rock road when you ah exalt Jah name. Heavy load, but wi nah go shame"], his tune on the Middle East. Joining Lorenzo are the mighty Chezidek and the woefully under-recorded Zareb (just wish we heard more from him), with 'It's No Crime' and 'Can't Fight Me', respectively. All three are at least very solid pieces of work, with Chezidek taking top honours in my opinion with a SWEET herbalist anthem.
"Meditation" by The Nazarenes [I Grade Records - 2012]
You can definitely owe this one to "Strength & Resilience", the latest GOLDEN album release from Lutan Fyah, I Grade Records and the Zion I Kings. In doing some backgrounding (yep, that's a verb now too) for that review, I started going back through the relationship of artist and label and got back to this somewhat forgotten GEM of an album, the baker's dozen year old, "Meditation" by Eritrean bros. The Nazarenes. Lutan Fyah would feature on 'It's Too Late' (Akae Beka also makes an appearance), during an album which is just best described these days as SOLID. There wasn't a creaking plank to be found anywhere amongst the fourteen with the biggest winners being the likes of 'Mamy Blues'... I say there wasn't a weak tune on the album and then I start naming songs. Nope! The entire album was, basically, a highlight and I'm of the thinking that YOU may've missed this one. Be that the case, go and do something about that right now because I'm done writing for the day.
"The Jamaican Situation" by Protoje [In.Digg.Nation]
First up this week is a loooooong overdue visit to the stomping grounds of our old friend, Protoje, who is back with a brand new EP project, "The Jamaican Situation". Protoje has been rolling out singles from since very early on in the year and they've now been brought together for a the very fun full set. It's always interesting listening to how Protoje works because it's ALWAYS a very natural thing. Maybe you love every single tune, maybe you don't, but you always get the feeling from the man that he has found EXACTLY what he was supposed to be doing with his life (they sound NOTHING alike, but it's similar to what I think of Damian Marley). Standouts here such as '30 Million', 'Where We Come From' (with Jahshii and IzyBeats) and the MASSIVE '80's Wild' showcase that talent at a typically high degree. And I owe Protoje a review! Hopefully can get that out before the end of the year.
'Carry It' by Bunji Garlin [Bad Beagle]
There've already been a number of really solid Soca tunes kicking up for the 2025 season and probably my early favourite, unsurprisingly, comes from the steadily FLAMING Bunji Garlin with 'Carry It'. The man has been on an absolute roll in recent seasons (which is saying a lot in his case, because he's been great for decades at this point) (Garlin's cousin, Patrice Roberts, is also doing very good so far) and it is continuing with a track looking back and at the 'good ole days' of Carnival as, arguably, Soca's Bodyguard continues to defend and UPLIFT the music and the culture like no other. TEARS! DAMN!
The Dutty Showtime Riddim [Dutty Rock Productions/Madhouse Records]
The great Sean Paul and co. from Dutty Rock Productions are back at it with their latest creation, the Dutty Showtime Riddim. An ode to a more vintage era sound, the Dutty Showtime is a fresh take on the late 90's STATUE of a riddim from the great Dave Kelly, the Showtime Riddim (best known for.... Baby Cham's 'Gallang Yah Gal', 'Eagle and Di Hawk' by Bounty Killer, Spragga Benz with 'Wi Nuh Like', and a few others as well), which is now reborn and placed in the capable hands of modern artists. Paul, himself, takes a pair of attempts on his track, the second of which being a VERY strong combination alongside Ward 21 (Sean Paul/Ward 21 on the same tune is NUTS!) with other standouts including Buju Banton, Tarrus Riley and Chi Ching Ching, whose 'Loud' is a sleeper hit of a song in my opinion. Still, all of those talented lights are competing for the second best track on the riddim as Busy Signal ABSOLUTELY BURNS IT TO ASH [!] with his effort, 'All Dem Try'.
'Match' by Jah9 [VP Records]
It's been entirely too damn long since last we crossed paths with the brilliant in every conceivable and inconceivable way Jah9 and she has well caught my attention with her latest single release, 'Match'. We're going to call this tune... ROMANTIC? Maybe SENSUAL?? Call it what you will (it's also kinda dirty, but in an expectedly very subtle and mature way.... like I wan to... It doesn't sound like a bad time the way she puts it) (Let's just say it like that), but 'Match' is more typically CLEVER wording and structuring by one of Reggae's reigning sagest of wizards.
"Phantom War" by Lutan Fyah [Greensleeves Records - 2006]
I'll show you exactly why "Phantom War" is our 'vintage' drop these days probably in the next week or so (it's actually already finished, just wanted to do this one first) -- although you may be able to figure it out -- but out of all the older material from Lutan Fyah that I've been listening to, it's where I normally lay my roots. Going on twenty years old, I still consider it to be his single greatest album and, these days, you could even make the argument that it's done nothing but get stronger. Literally SOAKED with big tunes; from 'Wipe Those Tears' to 'Rasta Still Deh Bout', from 'Bits & Pieces' to the title track and from 'Blood Stain' ["BLOOD STAIN DEH PON YAH SHOULDERS"] to 'Screaming For The Poor': "Phantom War" was Lutan Fyah at his gritty, hard-working best.
"The Akae Beka Scrolls" [Trinity Farm Music/Go A Chant Productions]
First up is a piece that I've been LOVING for most of September as Trinity Farm Music & Go A Chant Productions link up to bring forth "The Akae Beka Scrolls". This release follows February's outstanding "Living Testament" from Akae Beka and comes with a very unique story as far as I follow it. The legendary Vaughn Benjamin completed the work on "Living Testament" and returned to the studio intending to do more work and what resulted was a Dub album which he directed and produced and became "The Akae Beka Scrolls". Despite how often I find myself saying it, I'm starting to rethink the notion that I'm not much of a Dubhead because, as I get older, I'm really enjoying the subgenre quite a bit more. Playing here, along with Benjamin, himself, are familiar names such as Kenyatta Itola, Ishence, Ras Pulse and others. There is some really strong material on "The Akae Beka Scrolls" including the downright monstrous opener 'Psalm 19', which clocks in at nearly eight minutes in length. Also check 'Psalm 72', 'Psalm 37' and the wicked closer 'Psalm 119' (probably a poor choice of words there, but so be it).
"Secret Hater" by Cali P [Senmbelek/Evidence Music]
A fun thing happened with this one: 'Secret Hater' is the latest fun release coming from looooongtime AchisReggae favourite, Cali P and I saw that he had a new tune out and I was eager to hear it and it lived up to the lofty standards set by the chanter through all these years ["Caan ramp wid di friend dem from di Netherlands. A dem will send you go a Neverland. Gwadada and di mad Nigerians - GRIND YOU LIKE CINNAMON"] (I've, literally, been writing about Cali P's music for over FIFTEEN YEARS) - of course, the presence of Suku in production doesn't hurt either. As it turns out, 'Secret Hater' is also the title track from Cali P's latest three-track EP. The set also includes 'Mi Ruff Road'. New to my ears, 'Mi Ruff Road' is a somewhat Hip-Hoppish set (never my favourite) and HIGHLY lyrical. The wordplay on this one, subtly, is damn impressive! The third track is the downright GLORIOUS previous release, 'Jah Blessing' which originally reached back in April. 'Jah Blessing' is fantastic. It's aged very well and... I feel pretty confident in calling it one of Cali P's single best tunes EVER. Very nice three tunes collected here. You know what we really want (add like ten more to it!), but maybe that's for 2025 and "Secret Hater" is a tiny reminder and display of one of the finest talents in Reggae today.
'Satta Massagana' by The Fantells [Warrior Records]
If you follow Reggae music closely, there's a chance that you've come across both the group, The Fantells as well as the legendary tune they've recently redone, 'Satta Massagana' (literally one of the greatest songs EVER) (...like ever). You'd likely know The Fantells from several big tunes they had when they were active , particularly during the 70's (personal favourite of mine being 'Where You Gonna Run'), and 2024 marks a big return for the group (with new members). Earlier this year The Fantells released an entire album by the name of "Just For You" and now they're taking on The Abysinnians classic. Despite being fairly straight forward, 'Satta Massagana', because of just how well known and DURABLE it is, can be a difficult tune to recreate and, asy ou would expect, The Fantells have made a more than decent account of a truly immortal sound and be sure to give "Just For You" a listen as well (doing it myself at the moment and enjoying).
The Rebel Frequency Riddim [D Rebell Productions]
Big credit goes to D Rebell Productions and Solid Rock Sound for their golden new creation, the Rebel Frequency Riddim. When you put together a compelling group of vocalists for your riddim, you're definitely going to get my attention and your riddim being of actual quality is an added bonus and, on the Rebel Frequency, DRP have both going for them and it isn't that the Rebel Frequency has.... an overwhelming group of artists but look at this: Norris Man, Clatta Bumboo, Jah Defender, Jalifa, Daweh Congo. That is EXCELLENT! The actual sound here has a beautiful ly HEAVY old school vibes to it which everyone handles extremely well. I've mentioned some of the bigger names here, but also check efforts from the likes of Nga Han and Prince of Judah, the former of which gives 'True Rasta' which is, arguably, the single best tune on this track. Probably one of the best riddim albums of 2024 so far here.
"Home & Away" by Norris Man [Greensleeves Records - 2006]
And for the look back this week - I'm working on a feature on the great Norris Man and, in going back through his catalogue, DEFINITELY the set that has acted as somewhat of an anchor for me has been "Home & Away". So named after what is probably the chanter's second biggest hit to date (biggup 'Persistence'), my interest in "Home & Away", the In The Streetz produced album, has always centered around other songs besides the hammer. 'Seh Dem Bad', 'I'm A Free Man', 'Love Makes You Alive', 'After All' with Lutan Fyah, the absolutely GLORIOUS 'This You Must Know' and the MAMMOTH 'We Are The Creator' are all mega moments from an album which is considerably better than all of us gave it credit for being. There's another tune here by the name of 'This Day' which I barely even remember but is, SERIOUSLY, damn near perfect as well.
Ladies first this week as, headlining a number of big names is the deliciously (and I do mean DELICIOUSLY!) difficult to avoid Khalia who is back, already, with another lovely single, this time for Albion Muzic, 'Addicted'. If you've been following the work of Khalia lately, then you'll know largely what to expect from 'Addicted' as it is just another syrupy sweet piece of modern Lover's Rock which finds the vocalist tackling a classic riddim which sounds like a cut of the Queen of The Minstrel Riddim to a near perfection. Khalia is quickly cornering the market on just.... BEAUTIFUL, SENSUAL (though not necessarily sexual, although she does have her very clever moments) (it's never completely obvious, it takes a little thought) Reggae music and there's nothing wrong with that. Earlier this year she blessed us with "Stay True", her wonderful EP and I wouldn't be surprised at all if its followup (maybe even in full form) is set to follow sometime in the remaining six and a half months of 2024. 'Addicted' is sublime.
'Tear No Man Down' by Perfect Giddimani [ChinaMan Yard]
Next we have a single that definitely had to work on me quite a bit before I really began to tune it in, 'Tear No Man Down', which comes from the always welcome and always most compelling Perfect Giddimani, alongside ChinaMan Yard, who is literally out of China, as part of their Higher Grounds Riddim. Okay, I'll tell you what I heard initially that I didn't particularly care for: The.... pacing of this tune?? I write it as a question because I'm not entirely sure if I'm explaining it correctly (highly unlikely). 'Tear No Man Down' had (and still has) an unusual kinda 'hitch' to its sound to my ears (and maybe (probably) I'm the only one of that opinion but it's something that took a bit of overcoming. What helped in that is an unmistakable CHARM that the tune also carries. You know how you can talk to someone on the phone and you can still kind of HEAR them smiling when they talk? It isn't exactly the same, but there're portions of 'Tear No Man Down' which just gives the vibe that Perfect FELT REALLY GOOD IN SAYING WHAT HE IS SAYING at that given time. It radiates throughout this one and, from personal experience, I can tell you it is a quality that takes a song that I'm rating as "okay" early on and transforms it into... something maybe a little special.
'Dem A Murderah' by Anthony B [Green Lion Crew]
I probably could have put the whole of the outstanding Extra Heavy Riddim for this next one (but TECHNICALLY it hasn't released yet as a full unit) from the increasingly venerable Green Lion Crew but, instead, we're focusing on the track's finest moment (but they're all really good), Anthony B's 'Dem A Murderah', which finds the original fyah man putting the golden track to the sword... I'll probably do a track by track for the Extra Heavy when it releases. It is absolutely lovely!
'Trust H.I.M.' by Lutan Fyah [Truesounds]
A big credit goes to one Truesounds for laying down their very creative Roll Call Riddim for the great Lutan Fyah to provide vocals over and, listening to this one.... MASTERFUL! There is an infectious flute that dominates the vibes here and the Fyah uses it with this style darting back and forth in his delivery with a fittingly fiery lyrical display.
'Yeah, while you're living hail The King cause that's di thing
If you're corrupt, you get di judgment and di fyah that it brings
Dem ah put on a show fi go tek picture
Fi a while now dem skanking but now dem style it up fi wealth but that a babylon thing"
I don't know if Lutan Fyah has a bigger fan than I, PARTICULARLY OF HIS WRITING, over the years and my attraction for his words has not diminished in the slightest. At his absolute peak, the chanter from Spanish Town has VERY FEW equals.
'Nuh Afraid A People' by Pressure Busspipe [Digital One Music]
If you're stocking up a bit of frustration and need to it let out somewhere in this post, I'm sorry, no, you'll find no Soca here, but check this SCALDING tune from Pressure Busspipe and Digital One Music, 'Nuh Fraid A People'. The tune was recently (relatively recently) released as part of DOM's "Trichotomy The Album" which featured a trio of well solid Dancehall tracks (two of them, especially) and it showed a more AGGRESSIVE side of the chanter who also continued to display a level of ultra-heightened skill, regardless of the topic at hand.
The Seasons Riddim [Don Corleon Records]
Perhaps you can figure out why the roughly two decades old Seasons Riddim has come back to my radars and if you can't, I'll gladly let you know whenever I finish my next review (as it now takes me one (or TWO) weeks worth of attention to write something which, not too long ago, literally just took a few hours) (getting old..... no fun!), but I've been enjoying this set which probably should be regarded as a classic these days. The Seasons Riddim, along with the Drop Leaf helped to put its creator, Don Corleon into a different stratosphere and he went from one of the most influential Dancehall producers of his day (and that era would have been a mighty one with the likes of Steven 'Lenky' Marsden and Di Genius also shining at the time) into being the same for the entire genre of Reggae music. Absolutely saturated in hits, these days tunes like 'Love Is' from Jah Cure, Alaine's STUNNING 'No Ordinary Love', 'Thanks & Praise' by Fantan Mojah and DEFINITELY 'Far From Reality' from Natural Black rank as not only genuine hits of the time period but... really some of the finest work from those particular [well decorated] artists entire careers.... and that's what I'm listening to.
