Off Guard Riddim – Redboom Supamix / Friends For Real

Off Guard Riddim arrived in late 2021 from Redboom Supamix and Friends For Real, with a short but telling juggling that puts Vybz Kartel at the center of the conversation. Redboom Supamix is a Jamaican producer, mixer, and engineer who has been steadily building a name through dancehall work, while Friends For Real has appeared alongside him on other riddim projects. This one lands in that modern, sharp-edged lane where the instrumental does not overcrowd the vocals; it leaves room for the deejays to ride the pocket.

The title cut carries a clipped, bouncing feel, with a nagging lead and enough swing in the drums to keep it moving without rushing. Kartel’s “Nice Suh” is the anchor, and the fact that it was issued in both clean and raw versions tells you exactly who this was aimed at: selectors and street playlists alike. Qrush brings “Act Up” with a youthful, playful energy, while Shakka’s “Some Vybz” adds another layer of swagger, also split into clean and raw takes. Chi Ching Ching’s “Knock Knock” gives the set one of its most personality-driven moments, leaning into his nimble, chant-heavy style and dancehall entertainer instincts.

As a riddim project, Off Guard works because it stays lean. The line-up is not crowded, but it is well chosen, and the presence of Kartel gives the release instant weight while the other voices help shape the riddim into something that feels current rather than archival.