Finally Riddim (2024) – Don Corleon Records

Don Corleon brought back one of reggae’s most recognizable names with Finally Riddim, a June 14, 2024 digital release that sits comfortably in the tradition of his early-2000s juggling projects. Donovan “Don Corleon” Bennett is the producer behind it, the same ear that helped shape classics like Drop Leaf, Good To Go and Egyptian, and this one finds him back in clean reggae mode after years spent moving between albums, singles and crossover work.

The riddim itself is mellow and spacious, driven by a heavy bass drop, soft guitar lines and a steady drum pattern that settles into an easy 80-bpm cruise. It has that warm, reflective feel Don Corleon used to make his name with, without crowding the mix with too many tricks. The mood is devotional and romantic at once, which gives the singers room to stretch out in different directions.

Christopher Martin opens the set with “Don’t Let Go, ” bringing his familiar smooth tenor to a straight-up lovers cut. Gentleman follows with “Watch Over Me, ” leaning into spiritual uplift, while Pressure Busspipe’s “Forever” adds more roots-minded tenderness. Tarrus Riley is the big presence here, turning up twice with “It Nuh Mek Sense” and “Kisses Don’t Lie, ” both pitched in his signature warm, soulful style.

The newer voices matter too. Kimeco’s “El Shadai” nods to the old Jahmali tune of the same name, and Taye’s “Ease My Mind” and Meleku’s “Defense” help widen the riddim’s emotional range. T. O. K. close with “Much More, ” bringing their familiar blend of high, mid and bass harmony into the mix. It feels like a careful return rather than a nostalgia exercise, and that is exactly why it lands.