Hold A Medi Riddim – Hitmatic Records

Hitmatic Records kept Hold A Medi rooted in the kind of straight-ahead reggae juggling that gives singers room to work. The New York-based imprint, run by Oneil “Clarkie” Clarke, had already been active for years by the time this release surfaced, and the label was known for linking rising names with established voices across reggae and dancehall. This one landed in 2013, with 13 cuts carried by 13 different artists.

The rhythm itself has a measured, meditative pull rather than a frantic dancehall rush. It leaves space for melody and message, with a rolling bassline and clean, uncluttered production that suits lovers rock, roots, and conscious material alike. Lukie D’s “No No No” and George Nooks’ “You Deliver Me” sit comfortably in that lane, while I-Wayne’s “They Don’t Know” adds the kind of spiritual edge he has long been associated with. Capleton brings sharper heat on “Real People, ” giving the set a tougher contrast, and Gentleman’s “Dutty Soul” pushes the same rhythm into a more reflective, international-reggae register.

Christopher Martin’s “Mirror” and T. O. K’s “The Voice” broaden the project further, showing how flexible the riddim is across different vocal styles. Ice Black, Universe, Ky-Enie, Influential, Jehauri, and Derrick Parker fill out the juggling, giving the release real depth without crowding the rhythm. Hold A Medi works because it keeps the vibe steady and gives each artist enough space to shape the song around the same warm, contemplative foundation.