Island Riddim (2025) – Stingray Records

Stingray Records keeps Island Riddim in the lane it knows best: clean, roots-aware reggae with a polished UK finish and enough warmth to carry a full juggling set. The label has been around since 1994, built by the McLeod brothers in London, and it has long worked with a deep bench of Jamaican voices across lovers rock, roots, and gospel. Island Riddim arrived digitally on January 10, 2025, though it is tagged ℗ 2024 Stingray Records.

The foundation is easygoing but not sleepy, with a breezy island feel that leaves room for melody, phrasing, and message. George Nooks opens it with “No Man Is An Island, ” a fitting anchor from a singer whose career has moved between deejay work, lovers rock, reggae, and gospel over four decades. Randy Valentine’s “Tingling Feeling” brings a smoother, modern edge, while Ginjah’s “One Way Street” draws on the soulful, conscious side of his catalogue. Michael Buckley, a familiar Waterhouse voice with a long dancehall history, adds grit on “Timeless Token, ” and Abka Kaba’s “Club Conversation” pushes the rhythm into a more conversational, streetwise register. Yashema Mcleod closes the circle with “Lord Is My Shepherd, ” giving the riddim a devotional finish that suits Stingray’s gospel-leaning sensibility. Medisun’s “Image Of My Dream” rounds out the set with a lighter, melodic touch.