Middle Passage Riddim Pt. 2 – Rakspring Records

Middle Passage Riddim Pt. 2 finds Rakspring Records back in the roots lane with a four-cut juggling that keeps the message front and centre. Rakspring has already been moving steady reggae through releases like Rakspring Rock and later singles from Errol Lamzi and Daweh Congo, and this one sits neatly in that same part of the catalogue: conscious, song-driven, and aimed at the sound system crowd rather than the crossover market.

The lineup pairs Abel Miller, Christopher Federal, Black Stallion and Errol Lamzi, all on songs that circle life, struggle, love and survival. Abel Miller’s About My Life gives the riddim its most personal turn, while Christopher Federal’s Simplicity Of Life pushes the meditative side harder. Black Stallion’s Fighting War brings the sharper edge, and Errol Lamzi closes with Undeniable Love, adding warmth to balance the heavier themes.

Musically, the riddim feels rootsy and reflective, with a patient one-drop pulse, a dry low end and enough space for each singer to phrase cleanly over the top. It is the kind of production that leaves room for the lyrics to carry weight, which suits the subject matter well. Rather than chasing a big festival-style bounce, Rakspring keeps the arrangement grounded and uncluttered, letting the voices do the work. For listeners who like their riddims on the conscious side, this one sits comfortably in that tradition.