Half Way Tree Riddim – Footstep Productions

Footstep Productions keeps Half Way Tree Riddim rooted in 2006 roots reggae, but the set isn’t locked into one mood for long. Anthony Cruz’s title cut opens the door with a clean, conscious lead, then the riddim shifts through sharper street commentary from Lady Saw, the easy swing of L. U. S. T. on “She Got Me, ” and the social bite of Jimmy Riley’s “All Jamaicans. ” There’s a good mix of voices here, with Tanya Stephens, Turbulence, Natural Black, and Nicky B filling out the 15-track spread, while the instrumental version gives the cut room to breathe. The strongest lift comes from Lady Saw’s “What If, ” which brings a knowing edge to the rhythm, but Anthony Cruz’s “Half Way Tree” keeps the whole project centered and gives the riddim its name and its character.