Clip Riddim – Cahban Records

A clipped-up, percussive dancehall groove with just enough grit to let the voices cut through is what Cahban Records had on its hands here, and the best of the bunch is probably Alkaline’s “Hypocrites Criticize, ” all sharp-tongued edge over a beat that never lets up. Chronixx’s “When I See You” brings a sweeter, more reflective charge, while Jahmiel’s “Rastafari Stand Tall” keeps the spiritual thread running through the project without softening the energy. Released in June 2012, the set lines up nine cuts in all, with everyone from Sanjay to Red Rose getting a turn on the same trim, taut rhythm — a neat little snapshot of that era’s young dancehall pressure.