Talking Riddim (2002) – Ras-I Records

Ras-I Records kept Talking Riddim lean in 2002, and that sparseness suits the cut: just five vocal plays riding one groove, with Anthony B, George Nooks and Lukie D doing the heavy lifting. The rhythm has that late-period roots-reggae feel, steady and patient rather than flashy, so the singers get room to work the message and the melody without the production crowding them out. Anthony B’s Togetherness sets the tone with its call for unity, while George Nooks’ Running Away brings a more reflective touch and Fiona’s You Say adds a softer edge in the middle of the sequence. Ruddy Thomas closes the set with Everybody Is Talking, a fitting last word for a project that keeps its focus on voice, mood and a restrained backing track.