Feeling It Riddim – Machete Uk Records

Feeling It Riddim came out in 2012 on Machete UK Records, a label tied to James Jones and a small but steady run of reggae and dancehall releases. The set sits in that early-2010s space where roots-conscious singers were still making room for dancehall pacing, and the result is a breezy, melodic juggling with a soft, romantic pull underneath it.

The riddim’s strongest feature is its balance. Gyptian’s “Im in Love with U” appears in both edit and raw form, and that alone tells you the lane Machete was aiming for: radio-friendly warmth on one side, fuller street weight on the other. Junior Reid’s “Sharing the Night Together” brings veteran authority, Luciano’s “Them Never Know” keeps the conscious edge alive, and Lutan Fyah’s “Dem Grounds” pushes the roots commentary a little harder. Richie Spice’s “Changes (People Get Ready)” is another key cut, serious and uplifting, while the dub version gives the rhythm room to breathe.

There is also a nice spread of voices around the central feel. Teflon’s “Clean Up U Heart” and Turbulence’s “She Wanna Be Friends” sit comfortably in the lovers-and-life zone, while Chi Ching Ching’s “Push Me Luck” adds a more playful dancehall touch. Chuck Fenda and Zamunda help round out a juggling that never gets too heavy, even when the lyrics go toward struggle, faith, or social pressure.

What makes Feeling It work is the contrast between its easy glide and the weight of the singers on it. It sounds like a riddim made for repeat plays, with enough soul for roots listeners and enough bounce for dancehall selectors.