Rising Sun Riddim – Chimney Records

Chimney Records turned Rising Sun Riddim into one of the cleaner roots-leaning juggling sets of 2013, pairing a polished one-drop feel with modern reggae vocals from artists who were all moving strongly at the time. The Kingston production house, led by Jordan McClure and David Hayle, had already built a reputation for sharp, radio-ready Jamaican productions, and this rhythm fits that lane neatly: warm bass, crisp drums, bright guitar chops, and a steady bounce that leaves room for melody rather than clutter.

The strongest cuts are the ones that match that uplift in different ways. Chronixx and Kabaka Pyramid’s “Mi Alright” brings the youth-conscious energy that made both names central to the reggae revival moment. Tarrus Riley’s “My Day” gives the riddim one of its smoothest vocal turns, while Jah Cure’s “Better Way” folds his lovers-rock tenderness into a message song with real lift. Christopher Martin’s “Yes I Can” and Tessanne Chin’s “Anything’s Possible” push the positivity even further, each landing with an easy, radio-friendly hook. Demarco’s “It’s Not Right” and I-Octane’s “We Found Love” add a more streetwise edge, while Kelissa, Bramma, Zagga, and the Bramma cut “Wah Gwaan Mi Darlin” help round out the set with different shades of roots, romance, and conscious commentary.

What makes Rising Sun Riddim hold up is the balance: it is rooted enough for the reggae crowd, but open and melodic enough to carry singers, deejays, and crossover voices without losing shape.