Combination Riddim – Various Artists

Back in 2006, when Jamaican reggae was leaning hard into combination cuts and cross-artist pairings, Combination Riddim fit right into the moment with a roster that jumped between roots singers and dancehall names. The strongest turns come from Anthony B and Heather Cummings on “Vacation, ” Beenie Man and A. Freeman on “Girls In Every Angle, ” and the sharp contrast of Luciano with Turbulence on “Music Is Life, ” while Sizzla’s team-up with Vybz Kartel on “Live Up” adds a tougher edge to the set. The riddim itself keeps a mid-tempo, singer-friendly pulse that leaves room for hooks, chatting, and the occasional deejay switch-up, which is exactly why the lineup can move from Gentleman and Lukie D’s “Safe And Secure” to Elephant Man’s “Wuk Yu” without losing shape. Other cuts include Chezidek and Bugle’s “Fame Or Fortune, ” Danny English’s “Party, ” and O. K. ’s “Na Go So. ”