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,
The exceptionally talented Yemi Alade stars in “Rebel Queen”
With a voice befitting of the most beautiful songbird, Nigerian Afro-Pop torch bearer, Yemi Alade has blessed the masses with her latest offering Rebel Queen. A prolific, singer/songwriter, she has in a span of 9 albums and 2 EP’s garnered a fanatic and loyal fanbase. Even a casual listen to any of the multitude of her hits will show you exactly why.
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.
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: “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.
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.
EP Review: The Goodies hit all the right notes while connecting reggae and pop
The Goodies hit all the right notes while connecting reggae and pop in their debut self-titled EP, and wow does the new music sound good! Now you may have watched one of the San Diego duo’s jamming videos on social media, or be a long time fan of Jus Goodie (Justin Goodman), either way I love what The Goodies are doing and expect many big things ahead!
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.
Livity longevity legendary, Burning Spear's album "No Destroyer" marks the reggae icon's triumphant return
Burning Spear’s enduring legacy shines brightly, with his new studio album “No Destroyer”. He has bestowed to us an album filled with groovy flowing beats, that puts me in a tranquil trance of uplifting positivity. Burning Spear’s energy pulsates through every song highlighting why he is legendary reggae royalty and an everlasting force within the genre.
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!
EP Review: Pepper’s Makai is making big waves
The three-piece band of Kona Town reggae-rockers known as Pepper has recently delivered a healthy new EP, Makai, via LAW Records for our listening pleasure (and a pleasure it is). Makai contains twenty-five minutes of new music and a couple remixes distributed across seven songs with features from Iration and Edley Shine.
Album Review: Samory I hits hard with powerful second album “Strength”
Poetically insightful lyrics, true to roots reggae music and authentic riddims aided by a rich ensemble of talent who have crafted an impactful piece of musical art. Samory I’s “Strength” uplifts me in every track, the impeccable beats in each song complimenting the soulful poetic lyrics.
EP Review: “Stay True” highlights Khalia’s growth and amazing voice
“Stay True” highlights Khalia’s growth and amazing voice. The seven track EP released by Ineffable Records blends reggae, pop and R&B and is an all around amazing vibe. Big things are ahead for the Jamaican singer - no doubt!
Album Review: Drop everything and listen to Cas Haley’s “Boots Rock Reggae, Vol. 1”
Drop everything and listen to Cas Haley’s “Boots Rock Reggae, Vol. 1”! Haley is one of the most talented musicians in today’s music world and this review is way over due! Haley brilliantly connects reggae, country and rock in this must-listen gem of an album!
Album Review: Chardel Rhoden shines so bright in “Growth”
Chardel Rhoden shines so bright in the singer-songwriter’s amazing new album, “Growth”. The album showcases the artist’s heart, stellar vocals and wisdom.