Cherrio Baby Riddim – Willmac Records

Willmac Records keeps this 2016 set small and direct, with four voiced cuts riding a clean reggae groove that feels built for sound system play. The title itself nods to the long-running “Cherry Oh Baby” lineage, and the music sits in that familiar roots-to-modern crossover space: steady drums, a warm bassline, and enough space in the arrangement for the singers to stretch out without crowding the riddim.

Shaka Shamba teams with Anthony B on “Reggae A Get A Fight, ” and that pairing gives the project its most recognizable pull. Anthony B has long been one of reggae’s sharpest voices for culture and social commentary, while Shaka Shamba brings the kind of chant-style delivery that works well on a message tune. Mad Anju’s “Shorty” adds a more playful, streetwise edge. Martin Exx keeps things topical on “Do What Me Fi Do, ” and Sekuence closes it with “Sweet Jamaica, ” a title that fits the patriotic, feel-good side of the riddim.

Willmac Records has more than one reggae riddim in its catalogue, and this one sits early in that run, before later releases like Cheerio Fix and Rate Who Rate You. The production is unfussy and radio-friendly, but it still has enough weight to work in a dance. The standout here is the Shaka Shamba and Anthony B combination, which gives the riddim immediate character and helps anchor the whole set.