Foundation Riddim (2016) – Buzwakk Prods

2016 was a good year for straight-ahead roots reggae riddims, and Foundation Riddim sat right in that lane with a cast that leaned into conscious lyrics and strong harmony work. Bucky Jo and Queeny D’Empress set the tone on “Gimmi Some Roots, ” while Norrisman and Selvie Wonder’s “Tek Yu Hand From Yu Jaw” feels like the kind of cut built to cut through a sound system session. The lineup keeps its focus tight, with Sandeeno’s “Good Over Evil” and Troublesome’s “Dancing Shoes” adding a bit of extra lift to the nine-track set. Released as a Buzwakk Records production in July 2016, it’s one of those modern reggae juggling projects that goes back to basics without sounding dusty.