Special Times Riddim – Chimney Records

Chimney Records’ Special Times Riddim arrives as a smooth, glossy dancehall set that sits comfortably in the producer duo’s long run of radio-ready, melody-first work. Jordan McClure and David Hayle built Chimney into one of Kingston’s most dependable modern dancehall labels, with a catalogue that stretches from older rhythm projects like Happy Hour, Rising Sun and Toll Road to bigger-name contemporary placements such as Shenseea’s Alpha era work and recent singles with Govana and Tarrus Riley.

Special Times keeps that polished Chimney feel but gives it a more searching, reflective edge. The five-song lineup pairs hard-earned voices with a mid-tempo swing that feels clean and spacious rather than aggressive, letting the bass roll without crowding the vocals. Chronic Law’s Ghetto Star brings the steely street perspective he has made his calling card, while Govana’s Special Times plays to his gift for sharper melodic phrasing and conversational writing. Jah Vinci’s Save Me adds the plaintive, devotional tone he uses so well, and Jahmiel’s Brighter Days pushes the riddim toward uplift with his familiar faith-and-survival message. Mavado’s God Nah Sleep gives the set its darker weight, landing with that graveyard-deep authority that has always made his voice cut through a mix.

What makes the project work is the balance: enough toughness for dancehall selectors, enough warmth for repeated listening. It is a Chimney record in the best sense, polished, catchy, and tuned to artists who know how to make a hook stick without losing the sting.