Various – Black Tears Riddim

New York-based reggae label Donsome Records, which is owned and operated by producer and music publisher Adrian ‘Donsome’ Hanson, has released a brand new, slow-paced reggae backdrop titled “Black Tears Riddim”. Looking up and down the roster of artists, it’s quite impressive to see with whom Adrian Donsome has linked to voice this sublime riddim, which comes with some nice dubby effects in the mix. Several top-a-top artists, who all have hit tunes under their belt, are joined by talents like Kailash, Tommy B, and, the label’s latest signing, Kerick Thomas aka Korexx.

Lyrically, cuts for the “Black Tears Riddim” deal with themes that are related to worldwide issues such as police brutality, racial discrimination, injustice, and senseless killing. Each tune included here is full of consciousness, making them a joy to listen to as this is what reggae/rebel music has always set apart from other music genres. In all, it turns out that the riddim complements these message tunes perfectly well.

Even though only 9-year-old California-based Kailash is an unknown name, his album opener “Seems So Strange (Police Brutality)” instantly makes a point and strikes off a vibe. The ‘Queen of Reggae’, Marcia Griffiths, makes a powerful statement. With the title track ‘Black Tears” she delivers one of her best efforts. Tommy B, another unknown artist, comes next with the convincing “Crying Justice”, while Bugle’s call “Allow Me To Live” is a satisfying piece throughout. Glen Washington’s lovely sung “Hold On To A Feeling” is one of the biggest tunes here. Although Chezidek’s “Bad Seed” has pretty good vibes, it’s a tune that requires several listenings to grow on you. After 25 years in the business, Anthony B has more or less become a hit-or-miss artist. Luckily “So Dangerous” provides glimpses of the artist’s heydays. Old Harbour-based Korexx comes next with the solid “Still A Win” followed by Lutan Fyah, whose “Yuh Ungrateful” belongs to this selection’s highlights, and Perfect Giddimani’s decent “Fry Bone”.

In all, a fine collection of tunes underpinned by an appealing riddim.