Dance Nice Riddim Aka Its Raining (2001) – Ras I Records

Ras I Records kept Dance Nice Riddim in that classic early-2000s reggae lane where a familiar foundation gets a fresh sing-jay and roots-driven rebuild. The rhythm itself is tied to the old Weatherman Skank pattern, and that gives the set a sturdy, almost vintage backbone instead of a glossy, digital dancehall snap. Anthony Gordon is the name attached to the production, and Ras I was already active in the era with a string of sound system-friendly releases, so this sits comfortably inside a catalogue that liked conscious messages, melodic hooks, and clean juggling energy.

Freddie McGregor is the anchor here, and his Dance Nice has the kind of easy authority that makes him such a reliable voice on a riddim like this. He has always been strongest when the groove is warm and inviting, and that is exactly the space this production leaves for him. George Nooks follows with Let Me Be Me, bringing a steadier, prayerful tone that suits his gospel-leaning reggae reputation. Junior Demus adds a sharper deejay touch on More Love, while Lady Ann’s Don’t Wanna Lose brings a female presence that gives the set more balance. Pad Anthony’s Where Is The Love keeps the message conscious and direct, and the Freddie McGregor and Bubba DJ mix adds a more chant-heavy version that pushes the riddim a little harder.

The inclusion of Don Carlos on the Weatherman Skank / Dance Nice entry on some listings points to the way the rhythm was handled as part of a lineage rather than a one-off. That matters, because this is not a flashy one-rhythm novelty; it is a neatly voiced, singer-friendly set with enough variation to keep the juggling moving. What gives it character is the way the lineup stays rooted in love songs, uplift, and social concern, letting the riddim’s old-school pulse carry the weight instead of chasing gimmicks.