Compassion Riddim Part 2 (2011) – Troyton Music

Troyton Music put Compassion Riddim into circulation in 2010, and the Part 2 set that followed in 2011 keeps the same breezy, lovers-rock-minded feel while trimming it down to three vocal cuts. Troy “Troyton” Hinds had already built a reputation as a Jamaican producer with an ear for clean, radio-friendly dancehall and reggae, and this one fits neatly into that lane: a polished, mid-tempo groove with a soft, swaying pulse and enough space for melody to do the heavy lifting.

The line-up is compact but well chosen. Anthony B and Freddie McGregor join forces on “Tender Touch, ” which is the most seasoned pairing on the set and sounds exactly like that: warm, grown-up, and patient, with McGregor’s easy vocal control giving the tune real weight. Wayne Wonder and Galaxy P team up on “Reminisce, ” bringing a smoother, more contemporary blend of hook and phrasing. Qupid’s “Always” rounds things out with a direct, romantic delivery that suits the riddim’s gentle bounce.

What makes Compassion Riddim Part 2 work is the balance between veteran presence and current voices. Troyton’s production is tidy rather than flashy, with the rhythm section left open enough for the singers to stretch out their hooks. It is a love-song riddim first and foremost, but it never feels bland; the songs carry the mood without crowding the beat.