Diamond Riddim (2014) – Irie Ites Records

Irie Ites Records kept the Diamond Riddim in that sweet spot between rootsy rub-a-dub and modern dancehall pressure. The French crew, long known for sound system work, artist collaborations and clean one-riddim projects, put this one out in 2014 with a lineup that moves between veterans and younger voices. The riddim itself has a crisp, marching bounce, warm bass and enough space in the drum pattern for deejays to ride it hard without crowding the pocket.

Jr Yellam and Spectacular open the door with “Rub A Dub Anthem” and “Cyaan Whole Me Down, ” setting the tone for the whole package: tough but melodic, with that song-and-toast balance Irie Ites often favors. Skarra Mucci’s “Laba Laba” and General Levy’s “Blaze Up” push the energy higher, the first more swaggering and streetwise, the second pure UK dancehall command. Lion D’s “Gimme Some Rub A Dub” and Solo Banton’s “In The Air” keep the deejay flavor strong, while Ras Mc Bean’s “Never Weary Yet” brings a smoother, conscious edge that fits his reputation for roots-minded singing.

Tony D’s “Dem No Loyal” and Columbo’s “Worries Ina Dance” round it out with more grit, giving the riddim a proper juggling feel rather than a straight album mood. Released in 2014, Diamond Riddim sits neatly in Irie Ites’ catalogue as one of those carefully cast selections where the production is sturdy enough to let each voice cut through without losing the unity of the groove.