Slow Down The Pace Riddim – VP Music Group

VP Music Group’s Slow Down The Pace Riddim landed in 2007 as a Riddim Driven set, though the groove itself first circulated in VP’s catalogue in 2001. The project rides a mid-tempo dancehall swing that leaves room for melody, but still carries enough knock to work in a selector’s juggling. It sits in that sweet spot between roots-minded singing and dancehall pressure, with the bassline doing the heavy lifting and the drum pattern keeping everything moving without ever rushing.

The lineup is stacked with voices that know how to work a one-riddim concept. Buju Banton comes in sharp on “Nah Move Right, ” while Capleton brings his usual militant heat on “Agressor. ” Bushman’s “Arms Of A Woman” and George Nooks’ pair of cuts bring a smoother, more conscious touch, and the Gregory Isaacs and Louie Culture combination on “Tune In” adds a veteran lover’s-rock and dancehall contrast that gives the compilation real character. Jah Mason, Junior Kelly, LMS, Lukie D, Mountain Lion, Neisha K and Richie Stephens fill out the set with songs that move between spirituality, romance and everyday survival.

What makes the riddim work is that it can hold all of those moods without losing its shape. The strongest cuts are the ones that ride the pocket cleanly: Buju’s command, Capleton’s fire, and the Isaacs/Louie Culture pairing give the project its clearest identity. This is one of those VP compilations that feels tailored for radio, sound system and home listening all at once.