Pretty Pretty Riddim – Madhouse Records

Pretty Pretty Riddim lands right in that early-2000s Madhouse pocket: crisp, clipped dancehall with a glossy midtempo bounce that leaves plenty of room for the hooks to cut through. Dave Kelly’s production leans on that sharp, familiar Madhouse swing, and the lineup does the rest, with Baby Cham, Beenie Man, Tanto Metro and Devonte, and Spice all taking turns on versions that keep the energy tight rather than overcrowded. Spice’s “Complain” brings a sly, acidic edge, while Beenie Man and Jimmy Cheez Trix’s “Doctor Know” and Tanto Metro and Devonte’s “Don’t Have To Worry” keep the riddim moving with that easy, radio-ready push Madhouse was so good at in this period. Ms Thing closes it out with “I Want It All, ” and the instrumental “Pretty Pretty” ties the whole thing back to the bare framework underneath.