Nine Night Riddim (2005) – Steely and Clevie

Steely and Clevie were already deep into their run as one of dancehall’s defining production teams by the time Nine Night Riddim surfaced in 2005. The Kingston duo, Wycliffe “Steely” Johnson and Cleveland “Clevie” Browne, built their reputation through the late ’80s and ’90s with their own label and Studio 2000, shaping the digital era with sharp basslines and militant drum programming. This set sits squarely in that lineage: a one-rhythm VP compilation under the Riddim Driven banner, with the version cut anchoring the package and the usual juggling approach letting each voice ride the same skeletal groove.

The riddim has that early-2000s dancehall snap: hard kick, dry snare, a clipped, marching feel, and enough space for the deejays to jab through with personality. It’s built for selector movement rather than lush arrangement, which is exactly where Steely and Clevie excelled. Bling Dawg’s “Shotta Ting” and Elephant Man’s “Wining Queen” bring the sharper, hype-heavy side of the era, while Sasha’s “Poppy” adds a smoother, more melodic touch. Mr. Lexx’s “Gwaan Trace” and Red Rat’s “Fright Night” keep the set in rude-boy territory, and Screechy Joe and Polish’s “Woman Is Real To Me” gives the riddim one of its more memorable combinations.

The lineup also includes Buccaneer, Captain Barkey, Determine, and MISTER G, giving the project a broad cross-section of the period’s vocal styles. Even with the different approaches, the riddim holds its shape: playful, streetwise, and made for the dance.