1 Time Riddim – Various Artists

By 2011, reggae riddims were splitting between modern digital pressure and a more roots-minded feel, and 1 Time Riddim lands on the latter side with a compact four-song set that keeps the focus on the groove. The cut feels steady and open rather than overworked, giving the singers room to carry messages of uplift, praise and celebration without crowding the rhythm. I-Ray-Tay-Tay’s “Why All These Things” opens things on a reflective note, while Las Mohican’s “Jah Sun (Any Tomorrow)” and Ras Pablo’s “African Love (Princess)” lean into conscious themes over the same easy roll. Ruddy Campbell closes with “Reggae Celebration, ” a fitting finish that leaves the riddim sounding like a small, self-contained session rather than a padded compilation.