Old King Cole Riddim – Tads Records

Old King Cole Riddim comes from Tad’s Record, the Kingston-based label and production company founded by Tad Dawkins and long known for juggling roots, lovers rock, and dancehall from the same serious catalogue. By 2018, the imprint was still leaning on that old-school, artist-first approach, and this set fits neatly into that lane with a lineup that mixes veterans and contemporary voices over a warm, melodic reggae framework.

The riddim itself has a classic, easy sway rather than a hard digital bite. It feels built for singing: steady drums, rounded bass, and a smooth groove that leaves space for phrasing and melody. Annette Brissett opens with “Loose Control, ” and her voice gives the rhythm an early lift. Brigadier Jerry’s “Ram Dance Master” brings in the deejay edge, while Bugle’s “Play Right” and Chezidek’s “Fool And His Money” push the set toward conscious reflection. Etana’s “Good Good Feeling, ” Glen Washington’s “Loving You Forever, ” and Hezron’s “Un Breakable” sit comfortably in the lovers-rock and roots register, while Jah Cure’s “Cruzing, ” Marcia Griffiths’ “Smile For Me, ” and Richie Spice’s “Play Loud” give the project some of its strongest name-value moments.

What makes the compilation work is the balance. The veterans do exactly what their reputations promise, but the younger voices keep the riddim from feeling like a nostalgia exercise. It plays like a proper juggling release: smooth, respectful of melody, and strong enough to let each singer shape the same foundation in a different way.