Reviews
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.
Bumpin Uglies prove once again they are punk rock meets reggae heavy hitters in “Lyrics Over Everything”
Bumpin Uglies prove once again they are punk rock meets reggae heavy hitters in “Lyrics Over Everything”. Bumpin Uglies are amongst the best bands in reggae rock today and I applaud them for this innovative album. Appreciate this album, turn it up loud and know that the band is just getting started with so many powerful songs ahead. Lyrics over everything!
Feel sunshine even on an overcast day with Drifting Roots and Ze-Ion’s “Find A Way”
Feel sunshine even on an overcast day with Drifting Roots and Ze-Ion’s “Find A Way”. The EP is started with the band’s empowering title track featuring Ze-Ion that sends a beautiful message to push through adversity and to follow your heart.
Fall in love with Fia’s latest three song EP
Fall in love with Fia’s latest EP. Hawaiian artist Fia is such an unbelievable talent and every time I listen to his music I am blown away by his vocals. The singer-songwriter’s new three track EP, Fall In Love, is no different.
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.
Zion The Messenger makes his mark in “Truth Be Told”
Opening the proceedings with One Way, Zion, sets it off with a pretty nice head nodder in which he makes it clear he is a pious young man with a devout dedication to Christ and his teachings. Not entirely foreign themes throughout reggae music, he speaks of them with a decent singing voice and delivery that is easygoing and placid. That’s a good thing as it drives his subsequent cuts, Long Way, In My Shoes and my personal favorite, So Natural.
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.
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.