Pure Time Riddim – One Time Music

One Time Music’s Pure Time Riddim came out in 2020 and sits squarely in that modern reggae space where the hook is the groove itself. The juggling gathers Kabaka Pyramid, Iba Mahr, Bugle, Anthony B, Turbulence, Fantan Mojah, Runkus, VARO, Confident, Fyakin and Selecta Badras, with One Time Music also handling the instrumental. It was released digitally on October 9, 2020, with Island. Wav Entertainment in the distribution chain.

The riddim has a smooth, mid-tempo push that feels measured rather than rushed, with enough pocket in the drums and bass for each singer to stretch out properly. It carries a contemporary roots mood, but the production stays clean and polished, making room for the voices to lead. That balance is what gives the set its character: this is not a flashy one-drop built for fireworks, but a steady foundation for conscious writing and melodic phrasing.

Kabaka Pyramid’s Never Trod Alone brings his sharp, thoughtful delivery to a tune that feels rooted in survival and self-possession. Iba Mahr’s Mindful fits his warm, reflective style well, while Bugle’s Best Life taps into the uplifting, self-aware lane he has long occupied. Anthony B’s Gallis Degree brings veteran fire and streetwise humor, and Turbulence’s Hard Work underlines the perseverance theme that runs through the riddim. Fantan Mojah adds spiritual heft, while Runkus gives Call Up a more youthful, elastic edge. Fyakin’s Heights Of Great Men and Selecta Badras’s Tequila widen the palette, and Varo and Confident help round out a set that keeps moving between roots sentiment, love songs, and everyday uplift.