Time and time again there are significant albums that are released and instantly grab people’s attention. Leaving a lasting impression of the said artist or artists. Reggae fans were recently blessed with a 13 track album Now I Rise, from emerging star Dre Island who hails from Kingston, Jamaica. Having been in the music business for the past 5 years, Dre Island was able to put together a work of art that resembles artistry like Chronology and Rapture from Chronixx and Koffee respectively.
Now I Rise was produced by Dre Island Music, Kingston Hills Entertainment, and DubShot Records. It features a host of reggae artists including Alandon, Chronixx, Jesse Royal and dancehall’s heavyweight Popcaan. Amid a global pandemic and aftermath of George Floyd’s brutal killing, the album’s introduction could not have been better timed. Dre Island gives an honest account of real issues with his signature reggae sound. The album features the artist’s 2017 hit single We Pray which features his long-time friend Popcaan. Other notable tracks which have gathered significant interest include Favourite Girl, Never Run Dry, Days of Stone, and the album’s title track Now I Rise.
Born Andre Johnson, the talented reggae artist has risen to fame proving himself adeptly on the piano as well as in his singing and songwriting.  In 2016 Dre Island featured on Cadenza’s track People alongside RnB’s Jorja Smith. Consequently, it earned the Hottest Record In the World vote once by BBC’s Radio 1 host Annie Mac. Andre is clearly onto something and his album is testament to that.
Now I Rise is a ‘must listen’ to reggae lovers which I strongly recommend. There is not a lot more I can say as the music will do the talking. Big up Dre Island and kudos for a top album. Riddimsworld looks forward to a prosperous music career from you.
Get your copy on iTunes, Deezer, Spotify.
