Aaron Nigel Smith and Red Yarn unite reggae and country music in the upbeat new album, “Smith & Yarn”

Photo courtesy of Tuff Gong International.

The reggae and country genres might not always cross the mind at the same time, but if fused in a meaningful way they can be absolutely beautiful. In fact, Gramps Morgan’s Grammy-nominated album, Positive Vibration, has done it beautifully. Portland-based musicians Aaron Nigel Smith and Red Yarn have now united the genres in a fabulous new album titled, “Smith & Yarn”, and you have to give it a listen! The album was released by Aya World Productions and Red Yarn Productions and was distributed by Tuff Gong International.

We’d have to say that Morgan’s album leans closer to the traditional reggae music you might be used to listening to and Smith & Yarn leans more on the folk and country side! But you can absolutely hear the reggae influence, and Smith and Yarn’s songwriting is incredible! The album production is super legit!

Reflecting on the collaboration, Smith said in a release, “It was such a joy to collaborate with Andy on this project! I feel like we tapped into a unique and dynamic sound. It was super fun to allow creativity to lead the way as we explored ways to bridge the sonic qualities of reggae, folk, and country music. Although it may seem like these genres are on the opposite sides of the spectrum, I found it incredibly refreshing to create with Red Yarn in the spirit of demonstrating collaboration, compromise, and unity.”

“Make Some Change” by Aaron Nigel Smith, Red Yarn and Father Goose is the Daily Reggae Song of the Day.

By CB.