Herbal Spice Riddim – Shem Ha Boreh Records

Out of the 2014 roots-reggae crop, Herbal Spice Riddim from Shem Ha Boreh Records has a warm, slightly dusty pulse that feels built for late-night sound system spins rather than glossy crossover polish. Lutan Fyah’s “Me No Just Come” gives it the sharpest edge, while Lone Warrior and Spectacular keep the energy locked in with plainspoken uplift and conscious talk. The standout pairing is Ras Zacharri and Mark Tenn on “The System, ” which pushes the compilation into heavier social commentary without breaking the riddim’s relaxed sway. Dub Maestro closes the set with the instrumental cut, letting the guitar skank, bassline, and drum pattern breathe on their own. It’s a compact five-track release, but it sits neatly in that mid-2010s reggae run where one riddim could still carry a whole mood.