Blindfold Riddim (2021) – Illmatic Records

Illmatic Records leans into a breezier, rootsier side of reggae on Blindfold Riddim, a seven-cut set that runs just 23 minutes and keeps the focus on the songs rather than any big studio flex. Abameleck’s “Give Thanks Fi Life” and Shaka Shamba’s “Bless the Children” give the project its most grounded moments, while Euro Staxx’s “So Much Problems” and I Marley’s “Pretty Young Girl” bring a sharper singjay edge to the same spare backbone. The title cut pairs Marly B with Lyrical Mamba, and “Rock My World” teams Night Hawk with Challa for one of the more melodic turns here, all riding a restrained groove that leaves plenty of air around the vocals. By the time the instrumental feel settles under “Bless the Children, ” the whole set has the easy, laid-back pulse of a riddim made for voices to do the heavy lifting.