7″ & 12″ singles from Ras Teo, Alpheus, Viti Sánchez, Linval Thompson, Nytto Dread

Three fresh releases have arrived from the Spanish ARK, showcasing music produced by the esteemed ‘El Maestro’ Roberto Sánchez and the Lone Ark Ridim Force.

RAS TEO – DANIEL / LONE ARK RIDDIM FORCE – DANIEL DUB

One of the releases is Ras Teo’s Daniel, as usual accompanied by the dub version by Lone Ark Riddim Force. Released as a 7″ vinyl single through Jah Temple Records, an extension of the Teocali Sound System, this is the label’s second release after the 12″ single that fwatured Behold & Shaka Warrior. Ras Teo once again collaborates with Roberto Sánchez, with whom he has previously worked on projects like the acclaimed 2019 album Ten Thousand Lions. Daneil is a mesmerizing roots reggae tune driven by an energetic rockers riddim and accompanied by captivating horn arrangements. The song tells a poignant story about Ras Teo and his son Daniel. On the flip side, the dub version is a delightful addition, especially when played at high volume.

ALPHEUS – KITTY KITTY / VITI SANCHEZ – HOTTY HOTTY

In 2010, singer Alpheus and Roberto Sánchez began their successful collaboration, leading to the release of the studio album From Creation in January 2011. This was followed by the albums Good Prevails (2014), Light Of Day (2014), and The Victory (2014). Currently, the talented duo is working on a highly anticipated new project, Ska Rocksteady Early Reggae Album, soon to be released by Spain’s Liquidator Music. The label has given fans a taste of what’s to come with the release of a 7″ vinyl single. Side A features Alpheus’s energetic ska song Kitty Kitty, produced in a traditional style by Roberto Sánchez and infused with a delightful retro doo-wop vibe. The flip side showcases a captivating instrumental version, enhanced by an outstanding saxophone solo from Viti Sanchez. Out on Monday 16th October and also available on all digital platforms.

LINVAL THOMPSON – FOUR BABYLON / NYTTO DREAD – SOUND SYSTEM / LONE ARK RIDDIM FORCE – DUB, SONIDO Y PODER

After over a decade, a previously unreleased track by Linval Thompson has finally hit the shelves. This special tune was given to a sound system from Guadalajara town, Rootikaly Movement, known for playing heavyweight roots reggae and dub. Entitled Four Babylon, this ganja anthem has been a staple in Rootikaly Movement sound system sessions from the very start. Finally available on a 12″ vinyl single with three tracks, the extended version of Four Babylon takes center stage on side A. The riddim, powered by a powerful drum and bass line, is nothing short of extraordinary. There are familiar vibes in this song that showcase the legendary singer’s talents at their best. Longtime fans of Linval Thompson will recognize the magic that occurs when he delves into herbalist tunes, as he did with his renowned hit I Love Marijuana many years ago. On the flip side, two versions of the same riddim are showcased. The first one, titled Sound System, is performed entirely in Spanish by Nytto Dread, followed by an extraordinary dub remix of that song by Roberto Sánchez.