Reviews
Make your soul feel good with Bobby Alu’s “Keep It Tropical”
Gold Coast, Australia native Bobby Alu is here to offer an assist in extending summer with his 5th studio long player, Keep It Tropical. Setting things off in fine style, B.A. knew the assignment and nailed from the onset with the uptempo opener,
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…).
Rhythms of Change, The Wailers bestow a Powerful Evolutionary Message in Their New Album: Evolution
‘Evolution’ is a rich rhythmic tapestry of riddims and lyrics that encourage the essence of livity. The integration of the flawlessly impressive features, Mykal Rose, Marcia Griffiths, Emily Estefan and Gramps Morgan, who all add their own flair contributing to a diverse and enhanced audio experience. And of course the gifted Aston Barrett Jr. with his resonant vocals, who continues to carry the torch leading the iconic band.
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.
Unlocking the Dub Dimension, Groundation's “Dub Rock”, Revives the DubVersion Tradition
Groundation’s new album is a reimagined true dubby counterpart to their 2022 album. With Groundations trademark mixture of reggae, dub and jazzy beats, “Dub Rock” showcases their flair.
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.
Reggae Revolution on the Road: Naâman's "Temple Road (Extended Edition)" Remixes for Summer
The album continuously has great beat after great beat. True reggae riddims, but with a tropical inflection at times, the album as a whole gives me a wondrous atmospheric feel. “Temple Road (Extended Edition)” is definitely a soundtrack for your summer memories, the cool vibrations that are crafted in each track leave me feeling enlivened.
aurorawave take reggae rock to new heights in debut album
aurorawave have taken reggae rock to new heights in the band’s self-titled debut album. The California reggae rockers led by former Iya Terra frontman, Nathan Aurora are pioneering a new reggae rock meets heavy metal sound, and the end result is magical! Aurora is one of reggae rock’s hardest working artists and the sweat and tears of bringing this album to life were well worth the fight as it absolutely shreds!
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.
Top Shelf’s “New Kind Of World” is one of 2024’s best reggae rock albums
Top Shelf’s “New Kind Of World” is one of 2024’s best reggae rock albums. The Northern California band uses its music, lyrics and vision to help inspire a better world.
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!
THROWBACK THURSDAY: Junior Murvin's Timeless Treasure, "Badman Possee" Echoes the Sound of Rebellion
Junior Murvin’s “Badman Possee” is a masterpiece of an album. With the reggae riddims followed by a dubby equivalent it is such an entrancing album. The hard hitting heavy dub bass taps into the tempo of my heart throughout the album, energising me. The beats in this album enliven and inspire my spirit forcing my body to move uncontrollably, primally, it intoxicates me. Combined with Murvin’s harmonic voice reverberating through my existence, I happily lose myself in the waves of vibrations.
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!
One Culture and Mellodose deliver a fresh sound and inspiration in “Ocean of Truth”
The beauty of today’s reggae genre is there are so many talented artists around the world and they are all innovating in unique ways. At the same time, reggae boasts a unique spirit of collaboration and “Ocean of Truth”, the new 13 track album by One Culture and Mellodose is the perfect example of this in action.
Album Review: “Make It Last” showcases the poetic songwriting and heart of Algorhythm
Algorhythm’s debut album, “Make It Last” starts with an irie bass line, jamming guitar and locked in drum line and sets the tone for a thoughtful and super enjoyable reggae, rock and pop music experience.