Forever Riddim – Di Genius Records

Di Genius Records keeps Forever Riddim in that sharp mid-2000s dancehall pocket, with a lean cast that lets the production breathe instead of crowding the rhythm. The cut list is small but telling: Irie Love’s “It Was Me” and Shema’s “Caught Up” sit alongside two Vybz Kartel entries, including “Love” and the duet “Never The Less” with Shema, which gives the juggling a little extra pull. Even with the 2007 date attached to it, the release feels of a piece with Di Genius’ early rise as a young hitmaker coming out of the Big Ship orbit, already hearing how to frame a hook so it lands fast. Kartel’s “Love” is the tune that hangs over the whole set, all tension and melodic bite, and it leaves the riddim with a slick, memorable finish.

Forever Riddim Tracklist:

1. Irie Love – It Was Me
2. Shema – Caught Up
3. Vybz Kartel – Love
4. Vybz Kartel – Never The Less Ft. Sheema