Medz Riddim (2004) – Grass Root Records

2004 was a busy year for roots reggae, and Medz Riddim sits right in that stretch where conscious singers and tougher voices were sharing the same one-drop space. Grass Root Records lines up a deep cast here, with Anthony B’s “Safe With Jah” and Luciano’s “No Reason” pushing the spiritual edge, while George Nooks’ “Sunny Days, ” Half Pint’s “Passion And Action, ” and Sizzla’s “Jah Love” give the riddim extra weight; Daville, Richie Stephens, Singing Melody, Thriller U, and Tony Curtis keep it moving with a mix of lovers rock and uplift. The production has that warm, late-night pulse that lets the bass sit low and the melodies carry, and the version closes the set under its own “Medz Riddim” title after 13 cuts.