Reviews
Soulful Expressions and Deep Reflections: Mortimer shares From Within showing Vulnerability and Strength
"From Within" is a personal and introspective album, where Mortimer blends vulnerability and strength. Memorable collaborations with Damian Marley, Kabaka Pyramid, and Lila Iké adding depth, combined with Winta James' production, enhances its reggae roots with modern flair. Mortimer explores themes of injustice, love, faith, and growth, the album is both emotionally resonant and musically dynamic and a must listen.
Joe Samba aims to make you feel something with latest release, Lifeline
The soulful reggae rocker from the east coast has recently added a new set of tunes (ten, to be exact) to his already successful musical repertoire. Lifeline is Joe Samba’s third full-length studio album via LAW Records, and it’s quickly becoming a staple in my daily routine (this album has a song for every occasion…).
Triumphant Trio Top the League with “Rockin’ Like a Champion”
“Rockin’ Like a Champion” captures the essence of dub and reggae with its deep, resonant bass, celestial vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics. The innovative album takes you on a memorable dub session. Mykal Rose, Subatomic Sound System, and Hollie Cook have flawlessly combined to create a must-listen album. “Rockin’ Like a Champion” leaves me hopeful for more collaborations from this extraordinary trio in the future.
Govana’s “Legacy” proves he is as talented as they come in today’s dancehall scene
The Vybz Kartels, Alkalines, and Shenseeas have replaced the Beenies, Bountys and Lady Saws in the dances and have no design on giving way to the legends they supplanted. Govana, one of the leaders of the new school has blessed the masses with his sophomore effort Legacy.
Add Etana’s “Nectar of the Gods” to your list of top 2024 reggae albums
Blessed with a caramel-sweet, yet potent delivery, Etana has consistently delivered what the game needs while becoming a headliner in her own right, capable of carrying a show or fest, with her sizeable catalog of fan favorites. Her new effort Nectar of the Gods looks to further entrench her as a top songstress and sets things in motion seamlessly with the opener, Jah Never Fails.
Lot 49 display catchy reggae meets pop sound in “Liquor & Coffee”
Lot 49 display their catchy reggae meets pop sound in the new 12 track album, “Liquor & Coffee”. The San Francisco-based band highlight their smooth and inviting style of music across the LP, and I love the album’s creative songwriting, production, and heart.
Jah’Mila flexes soothing vocals and smooth roots reggae sound in “Woman of the Sun”
It’s always a pleasure to be introduced to new artists. It’s even better when the talent is overwhelmingly dope as is the case with Kingston born and bred Jah’Mila. The daughter of legendary reggae session guitarist Earl “Chinna” Smith has released her second album entitled Woman of the Sun.
Mike Love uses his spectacular voice to inspire a call to action around societal issues that matter in “Leaders”
Mike Love’s highly anticipated new album, “Leaders” is another perfect addition to his stunning music catalog and is a must-listen for music fans around the world.
Guam’s For Peace Band showcases its unique island reggae sound in “Massive & Crew”
I’ve been a huge fan of For Peace Band since listening to the band’s excellent 2018 album, “Always Love” and I was so excited to hear that the band hailing from Guam has released its follow up LP, “Massive & Crew”, which is a big time album showcasing the group’s unique island reggae sound.
Album Review: Stylie takes its smooth reggae for a cruise in “Smooth Sailin”
Colorado reggae rock band Stylie has released its new album, “Smooth Sailin”. You will absolutely love the relaxing 11 tracks and the band’s positive energy!
Sublime With Rome’s final LP is perfect and highlights Rome Ramirez’s extraordinary talent
Sublime With Rome kicks off its final LP with the super smooth track, “Cool & Collected” featuring Slightly Stoopid. I love how the song starts with a verse showcasing Rome Ramirez’s patented vocals followed by an irie bass line drop that will have you jamming along.
The Irie continue reggae rise with their incredibly catchy self-titled album
The Irie continue their reggae rise with the new incredibly catchy self-titled album. Wow, this album is so amazing! I love the Phoenix band’s unique ability to blend reggae, rock and pop, and their latest album will help you promptly get any party started!
Experience the longevity and genius of UB40 through “UB45”
Celebrate and experience the longevity and genius of UB40 through “UB45”. The 14 track album takes you on a journey with the iconic UK reggae band that have spread the power and joy of reggae music to audiences worldwide. The album brings you beautiful versions of the band’s hits along with recent releases all showcasing their smooth and soulful sound.
Finding Tranquility in Turmoil, Clinton Fearon guides us to survival with positive vibrations
The smooth sounds of Clinton Fearon’s newest album “Survival Vibration” coolly reverberates and resonates through my mentality. Throughout the 11 track album, “Survival Vibration”, Clinton Fearon’s message of Rastafari could not be clearer. Each track delves into his harmonic teachings and meditations. Each impactful lyric is carefully crafted to impart wisdom upon the listener. As I listen to “Survival Vibration” I feel tranquillity wash over me.
Kes starts summer early with “Man With No Door”
What generally makes a reggae album great is the ability to touch multiple styles without overdoing it. Dancehall, (Honey Comb feat Busy Signal & Mood alongside Shaggy) Afrobeats (It’s Enough & Jolene) and of course Carnival appropriate Soca (Miracle) are all done marvelously by this crew. So much so that I can’t remember when I have been so hooked by a group upon a first listen. Man With a Door in short is literally a perfect album.
Dukes Of Roots' self-titled debut album bridges continents and generations
Dukes Of Roots' debut album titled “Duke Of Roots”, bridges continents and generations. Dukes Of Roots has produced a reggae revival album, not just in sound but in spirit. With a global lineup, featuring the Congolese vocal maestro Mermans Mosengo and Jamaica's own legends George “Fully” Fullwood, Courtney Diedrick, and Sean Diedrick, this ensemble breathes new life into roots reggae.
The mystic Aaron Borowitz presents timeless vibes with feel-good new album Father Time
Aaron Borowitz's first solo album, "Father Time", clocks in as a 37-minute and 37-second where harmonic positivity seamlessly entwines with the spirit of reggae. Aaron Borowitz’s 11-track album incorporates a dose of majestic mushroom mysticism, accompanied by a talented batch of features. "Father Time" beckons listeners to embrace the current moment, radiate kindness, and cultivate inity. I’m a fan of the album cover, a fusion of fungi and time, that stands out as a visual prelude to the enchanting realms within.
“The Gentle Man” ascends Romain Virgo to the top of the game
If you’re a fan of the man whose album we’re about to get into, your prayers were answered when one-drop megastar, Romain Virgo gave the masses what is arguably one of the most anticipated new releases of 2024, in his new long player, The Gentle Man.
Tribal Seeds latest LP Ancient Blood has fans fired up
San Diego-based reggae rockers, known to the masses as Tribal Seeds, have served up some brand new music recently, putting out their first full length studio album since 2014. Ancient Blood is a big one; seventeen tracks chocked full of features from some heavy-hitters in the scene!