Murda Dem Riddim – Irie Ites Records

Irie Ites has been one of France’s most reliable reggae operations for more than two decades, and Murda Dem Riddim sits comfortably in that long run of roots-conscious, sound-system-minded productions. Released on February 16, 2024, the set pairs the label’s own riddim with a strong vintage-heavy vocal cast and a Roots Radics backing that gives the whole package real backbone. The instrumental rides with a militant step, plenty of low-end pressure, and that dry, pressurised swing that leaves space for each singer and deejay to cut through cleanly.

Barrington Levy opens the action with Tell Dem Already and returns with Trinity on Genocide, a smart pairing that taps into Levy’s classic, high-register excitement and Trinity’s rugged DJ contrast. Eek-A-Mouse’s Musical Ambassador brings a looser, more playful cadence, while King Kong’s Money Could A Buy keeps the energy in straight militant mode. Perfect Giddimani’s Reason feels like the most contemporary voice on the project, bringing a modern roots steppers consciousness without breaking the riddim’s old-school frame. Spectacular’s Murda Dem is the title cut that lands hardest on the juggling side, sharp and direct, and Irie Ites closes with the instrumental Murda Dem Riddim, which lets the production’s weight and arrangement speak for itself.

What makes the release work is the balance between veteran presence and sound-system utility. These are voices with history, but the riddim never turns dusty; it sounds made for dubplate pressure, selector replay, and repeat spins.