Lovely Girl Riddim – Black Star Records

Black Star Records’ Lovely Girl Riddim sits in that mid-2010s reggae sweet spot where the one-riddim format still had room for personality, and this one leans on a warm, rootsy feel with just enough bounce to keep it moving. Lutan Fyah’s “Miss Independent” gives it a strong opening, while Leah Rosier’s “Rude Boy” and Vivian Jones’ “One Love” keep the mood steady and melodic. The extra dub cuts with Asher E are a nice touch too, especially on “One Love” and “Rude Boy, ” where the instrumental space lets the groove breathe a bit more. Released in late 2015, the set pulls in 12 tracks and 11 unique artists, so it feels like a compact snapshot of Black Star Foundation’s circle at the time rather than a throwaway compilation.