Various – Jah Rise Riddim

Although already released at the end of April, we were only fairly recently made aware of a new riddim called Jah Rise from Machete Records. The record label has been operating for a significant period of time and has put out a collection of popular dancehall albums, including Dark Lake riddim, Full Moon riddim, and Fishscale riddim. When it comes to (roots) reggae, the label also stands its ground with the Feeling It riddim, the Too Late riddim and the Overdue riddim, among others. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the release of the Jah Rise riddim set was delayed. However, the production was eventually finished in the latter part of last year.

Recorded in Kingston’s Mixing Lab Studio, the reggae riddim boasts an irresistible, intricate texture – check the intro! Featuring a talented roster of musicians including Flabba Holt, Kirkledove, the late, legendary Bopee, James Jones, and Carol Mclaughlin, the arrangement was expertly crafted by venerable reggae veteran Clive Hunt. The outcome speaks for itself: a flawless, top-tier production.

The list of artists can definitely be called impressive. Dancehall veteran Sizzla takes on the role of singer surprisingly well this time with his roots tune Nothing Is Possible Without Jah. Concrete Jungle by quirky artist Yaadcore fires on all cylinders. Boom! From Richie Spice we don’t expect mediocre tunes and indeed he doesn’t disappoint us with Africans Sail On. Instantly engaging, Ginjah delivers a standout track –Can’t Trust Dem– of personal observance with his emotional and true delivery. Warrior King is top-ranking on I-Niversal Light, as he sings of his love for Jah with an amazing degree of emotion and soul. Lutan Fyah’s Pick & Choose simply adds to the high level of this set. By the way, this tune comes in two flavours, one being the demo version. Served up as an additional encore are the dub version and the instrumental version, the latter starring guitarist Bopee.