Stamina Riddim Selection Vol.1-Masta Riddim (2010) – Stamina-Records

Stamina-Records keeps the Masta Riddim selection rooted in a German reggae circuit that’s more multilingual than most, with artists cutting in English, German, and Spanish over a steady one-drop frame that leans more conscious than flashy. The set moves from the devotional push of Conscious Fiyah and Headcornerstone’s “Always In My Song” to Ganjaman’s “Nur Jah Weiss, ” Goldi’s “Ein Geschenk, ” and Raggabund, Caramelo and Criminal’s “Mentira Mortal, ” while the producer crew folds in its own version cuts, including “Masta Riddim (Version)” and “Masterplan. ” The groove is patient and unhurried, giving the vocals room to carry the weight, but it’s Mista Wicked’s “Greiz Gruzefix” that lands hardest, with that rough-edged delivery and local flavor cutting through the rest of the selection.