Links:
Jump For Joy riddim review
Maxfield Avenue riddim review
Both collections feature excellent line-ups and production. Read a little more below or follow the links for a full report!
Jump For Joy riddim
As if we didn’t
need more evidence that reggae from the Virgin Islands is every bit as
accomplished and well-produced as its Jamaican equivalent, Splatterhouse
Productions brings for Jump For Joy,
a 15-tracks riddim excursion of the highest caliber.
With an experienced
Jamaican music team on board, including master drummer Sly Dunbar, keys-man
Donald Dennis and guitar legend Earl “Chinna” Smith, this project already had
an advantage. They conjure a honeyed mid-tempo one-drop rhythm that has all the
vital elements: tasteful guitar accents, bright and colorful keys and piano,
and Dunbar’s heavyweight thump.
Producer J.
Carrington and mixing engineer Dean Pond didn’t skimp on talent, bringing in VI
talents Pressure, Ras Batch, Danny I and Army, American singer Notch, as well
as Jamaican greats Junior Reid, Sizzla and Lutan Fyah. For most riddim juggling
fans that would seal it. But the surprise on this set are the strong
performances from the newer talent.
On “Smile” crooner
Maurice’s voice has a touch of Da’Ville’s delicate, soulful delivery. Paired
with some delicious backing singers and overdubs, it’s a solid lovers rock
track. Likewise, Rema impresses with her crisp and present singing, while
singjay Mada Nile has the confidence and strength of an artist like Queen
Ifrica on the message-imbued “Bended Knees.”
Overall, Jump For Joy is another solid and sweet
set from the Vis, proving that the wider Caribbean holds much promise for the
reggae’s future.
