Tenament Riddim – Macten Records

Pinchers sets the tone on Tenament Riddim with “Wish You Were Mine, ” and that opening choice tells you plenty about Macten Records’ ear here: this is a 2013 roots-minded reggae set that keeps the emphasis on singers with character rather than flashy gimmicks. Little Hero’s “Shotta Dem” and Spanky Aka Jones’ “All My Life” give the rhythm some contrast, while Lawgiver feat. Spanky’s “Nuh Greedy” hangs right in the pocket with a conscious edge. The riddim itself feels lean and steady, with enough bounce to carry the vocals without crowding them, which suits Pinchers’ smoother phrasing and Little Hero’s sharper delivery especially well. With nine tracks and nine different artists, it plays like a compact snapshot of the era, and the closing instrumental keeps the vibe hanging just a little longer.