Mysterious Waves Riddim – S.g.k Records/rockers Mix Entertainment

Dusty pulse. S. G. K Records and Rockers Mix Entertainment frame Mysterious Waves around a rootsy, mid-tempo groove that leaves room for voices to move in and out without crowding the riddim, and the 2013 set keeps its focus on Zimbabwean-flavoured lyrics and proud, street-level chant. Taffi Roots’ “Life, ” Mary Mo’s “Wada Ini, ” and Socrates’ “Tick Tock” give the compilation some of its sharpest turns, while Tocky Vybez drops in with “Mukurumbira, ” a track that carries extra weight in the lineup. Benny B appears twice in the credits, opening with the “Mysterious Waves Dub Mix” and later linking up with Viviun on “Blackberry, ” which helps give the project a steady anchor. By the time Sound Ranger closes with “Mysterious, ” the riddim has settled into its own smoky, patient stride.