Callie Riddim – Star Trail Records

Star Trail Records had a sharp ear for harmony-heavy roots sets in the early 2000s, and Callie Riddim fits right into that run with five cuts that keep the focus on message songs and strong voices. Beres Hammond’s “Always The Same” sits comfortably beside Anthony B’s “Jah Love, ” while Luciano’s “Noone Can Hide” and Capleton’s “Watch The Things You Say” lean into the more admonitory side of the riddim without losing the mellow pulse underneath. It’s the kind of production that lets the singers do the lifting, with Norris Man’s “They Are Hustling” adding a tougher edge near the end. A compact 2004 set, all told, and one that leaves its best impression in the way those five tunes hold together.

Callie Riddim Tracklist:

1. Anthony B – Jah Love
2. Beres Hammond – Always The Same
3. Capleton – Watch The Things You Say
4. Luciano – Noone Can Hide
5. Norris Man – They Are Hustling