Real Thing Going Riddim (2014) – Flava Mcgregor Records

There’s a warm, rootsy swing running through Real Thing Going Riddim, the kind of reggae cut that feels open and meditative rather than overworked, with the bass sitting low and the melody leaving plenty of air for the singers. Flava McGregor Records keeps the set lean at four tunes, and that tight lineup gives the thing a nice focus: Luciano’s “Upright” has that steady uplift he does so well, while Anthony B’s “Searching” leans into a more questioning, conscious edge that sits naturally against the groove. Sugar Minott’s title track is the one that gives the riddim its name and its old-school heartbeat, and Turbulence’s “All Natural” keeps the message grounded. A small, easy listen, but it’s got enough character to linger after the last drop.