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Genre: Contemporary Roots Reggae
Release Date: November 20
With such a groovy melody, a bold horn section led by the maestro, Dean Fraser, on point background vocals and catchy roots reggae chords, Itation Records’ new release, the Trippin’ Riddim, invokes the spirit of yet another roots renaissance. Indeed, in addition to Itation (responsible for United Reggae’s Best Reggae Riddim of 2008), names such as Luciano, Turbulence, Fantan Mojah, Sizzla, Delly Ranx and Kali Blaxx capture the best of the conscious music movement. Just check “Rastafari Bless” performed by Fantan Mojah which weaves together Fantan’s rapid fire deejay flow and signature vocal range for a timeless, plaintive mood. Then there’s Winstrong (Suriname), Messenjah Selah (Jamaica), Ras Attitude (Virgin Islands), Jah Sun and Bobby Hustle (United States) who make up the core of the current reggae scene in the Americas. Selah’s combination with Sizzla,”We Overcome”, offers the best of both worlds–Selah’s soaring hooks and Sizzla’s conscious dancehall poetics.
Versatility is the name of the game. With eighteen tracks of up-to-the-time reggae vibes, it’s easy to trip over the riddim’s versatility with over an hour’s worth of listening available. Bobby Hustle’s “Words To Say” possesses that effortless, and infectious, pop sensibility that many reach for but few attain. Ishi Dube, Gideon & Sweet C and Zareb keep the message in the music alive while Stevie Culture, Ras Indo, Soul Medic, Vidagua and Ras Ijah make sure there is something for everyone including standout R&B, soul and pop contributions. Listen to the R&B-esque “Music Wash” performed by Vidagua where the catchy chorus is day-trippin’ on Itation’s one drop beat. The Trippin Riddim is your newest one-way ticket to the latest roots reggae anthem out of the Itation camp. Get yours on November 20 via iTunes and fine etailers worldwide.
