Reviews
Dale and the ZDubs breathe new life into ska with “Off the Rip”
Dale and the ZDubs breathe new life into ska with “Off the Rip”. The Washington, D.C.-based reggae rockers first album since 2016’s “Tuna” completely delivers with rocking jams, vocals, and energy that will pump you up no matter the time of day! The 12 track LP is one of my favorite releases of the year, and elevates the band to new heights.
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.
Album Review: Buju Banton proves once again he is “BORN FOR GREATNESS”
Jamaican superstar Buju Banton proves once again he is “BORN FOR GREATNESS” in the artist’s latest album. Banton sings with such a soulful voice, and he is an amazing lyricist / storyteller. This album’s production is top notch across the board.
Album Review: “Pink Skies” by Gus Walker shares a message of hope while painting a beautiful picture
Based in The Netherlands, singer-songwriter Gus Walker shares a message of hope while painting a beautiful picture in the fantastic new album, “Pink Skies”.
Album Review: Blvk H3ro’s road to superstar status is on full display in “On A Mission”
Blvk H3ro’s road to superstar status is on full display in “On A Mission”, and I love so many aspects of the album - from the storytelling, H3ro’s vocals, and the incredible production. H3ro has the energy, humble yet confident swag, and songwriting chops to continue his international growth in a major way.
Album Review: Bobby Hustle is far beyond a “Proof of Concept”
Bobby Hustle is far beyond a proof of concept. Although I appreciate the talented MC’s humility, I’d describe Hustle as a force to be reckoned with in the best way possible. He is releasing some of the best reggae meets hip hop music on the planet and deserves an even bigger audience, and the artist’s new album, “Proof Of Concept” is a beautiful collection of new music spotlighting his songwriting, energy and passion.
Album Review: “Look How Long” by Kava Jah and The Remedy is among the best roots reggae albums of 2023
“Look How Long” by Kava Jah and The Remedy is among the best roots reggae albums of 2023. Kava Jah is an extremely Jamaican talented singer-songwriter and musician and he puts his all into this absolutely beautiful album.
Album Review: Micah Shemaiah’s uplifting spirit is in full display in “Jamaica Jamaica”
Micah Shemaiah’s uplifting spirit is in full display in “Jamaica Jamaica”. The album opens with the powerful title track, which calls out the need for Jamaica to come together to better address societal issues. You can hear the urgency in Shemaiah’s voice over the riddim and it definitely catches the listener’s ear.
Album Review: “Setting Out for the Sun” showcases Claire Wright’s creativity, chill vibes, and big time voice
“Setting Out for the Sun” showcases Claire Wright’s creativity, chill vibes, and big time voice. The 10-track album, released by Ineffable Records, highlights Wright’s talent as a singer-songwriter and beautifully blends pop, rock and reggae in an all around relaxing experience.
Album Review: Johnny Osbourne’s “Right Right Time” is an instant classic
Reggae legend Johnny Osbourne’s latest album, “Right Right Time” is an instant classic. The talented singer songwriter teamed up with the French Connexion Band and the collaboration created a fresh sound that is amongst the best new reggae that I’ve heard in recent years.
Album Review: Gentleman’s Dub Club beautifully blend reggae, dub and hip hop in “On A Mission”
Gentleman’s Dub Club beautifully blend reggae, dub and hip hop in “On A Mission”. I love the UK-based band’s ability to cross between these genres. The album’s storytelling is on point and covers life’s ups and downs while emphasizing the importance only settling for positive vibes.
Album Review: Julian Marley and Antaeus’ “Colors Of Royal” inspire a fresh outlook in eight dance friendly tracks
Julian Marley and Antaeus’ album, “Colors Of Royal” inspire a fresh outlook on life in eight dance friendly tracks. I am absolutely loving this collaboration and the beautiful songs that Marley and Antaeus have brought to life that cross the reggae, electronic, dancehall and pop music genres.
Album Review: “Butter” is the smoothest Kash’d Out album to date and it’s an all around fun time
“Butter” is the smoothest album to date by Kash’d Out and it’s an all around fun time. The Florida rockers have that it factor and continue making some of the best reggae rock infused with pop music on the planet. The ten track album was released by LAW Records and builds on the band’s other amazing albums like “Undercover” and “The Hookup”.
Album Review: “Destiny” is the culmination of Alborosie’s dedication to his craft
Italian reggae superstar Alborosie has been dropping amazing tracks for decades and the singer-songwriter’s latest album, “Destiny” is the culmination of Alborosie’s dedication to his craft. In the 14 track album, Alborosie brilliantly shines light on important societal issues over a mix of top reggae, rock and dancehall riddims.
Album Review: Good Vibes Ambassador, Josh Heinrichs continues cementing legacy in “Acoustic Sesh (Acoustic Version)”
Some people have a way about them that automatically bring a smile to your face and when it comes to musicians the good vibes ambassador, Josh Heinrichs always brings his full self to his song writing and performances.
Album Review: Dive into the magic of Rebelution through “Reflections”
Rebelution has released the gorgeous new acoustic album, “Reflections” and it immediately brings you into the magic and healing power of the band’s music.
Album Review: Easy Star All-Stars deliver fresh reggae take on David Bowie classic in “Ziggy Stardub”
David Bowie is one of the greatest musicians of our lifetime and his 1972 album, “The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars” is an all time classic. The incredible Easy Star All-Stars are now introducing a new generation to Bowie’s music while putting their unique reggae sound on the musical experience in “Ziggy Stardub”.
Album Review: “Never Leaving” showcases Skyler Lutes’ shredding reggae rock style
San Diego-based artist, Skyler Lutes’ new album, “Never Leaving” is an absolute head banger! When I listen to Lutes, his music makes me want to take up surfing or at least jam his blend of reggae and surf rock on my nest boat trip!