Sneak Up Riddim – Free Willy Records

Free Willy Records usually sits in the straight-ahead dancehall pocket, and “Sneak Up Riddim” keeps that focus while leaning on a tight, stalking groove that leaves plenty of room for the voices to cut through. Beenie Man’s “Bad To Di Bone” gives the set its most immediate pull, while Elephant Man and Serani’s “Oh Baby” pushes the mood a little lighter without losing the sharp edge, and the production keeps everything clipped and percussive rather than flashy. Liquid’s “Nuh Argument” and Vegas with Famous on “What A Joy” add more rough-and-ready personality, so the riddim never feels like it’s leaning on one star alone. The 2013 set runs five tracks deep, with New Kidz closing out on “Guh Deh Gal. ”