Book Of Love Riddim – Various Artists

Book Of Love Riddim keeps things on the roots side of reggae, with five voices working the same 2005 cut and a tracklist that leans into conscious themes rather than big crossover hooks. Anthony B comes in swinging with “Make Bob A National Hero, ” while Chrisinti’s “Strength Of The Bingi Man” and Norris Man’s “No One Cares” keep the set grounded in righteous, message-driven singing. George Nooks taking on “Book Of Rules” is the sort of selection that gives the riddim extra weight, since that song has long lived in the deep roots canon. Vengance closes it out with “Jah Love Sweet, ” and that one leaves the strongest aftertaste here, because it ties the whole package back to the spiritual center that runs through the release.