Caramelo Riddim – Luv Messenger And Max Powa

Caramelo Riddim has that bright, rootsy lift that suits its title, but the subject matter keeps circling ganja, love, and everyday survival, which gives the set a nice street-level feel. Luv Messenger and Max Powa shape the rhythm like seasoned selectors with a feel for Spanish-language reggae, and the best cuts sit right in that pocket: Paupa Man’s “Mucho Amor, ” Stereoman’s “Mucho, ” and the ganja-minded “Ganja Smoker” from Profecia Crew all ride it with different angles. Jimboman’s “Solo Buena Gente” and the closing instrumental version add a little extra mileage, and there’s a quiet Barcelona-to-Spain connection running through the whole thing, especially on the Don Caramelo and Paco Mendoza cut near the middle. A 2013 release, it also runs long enough to feel like a proper showcase, not just a quick one-riddim pass.