Test It Riddim – Mas-Ski Productions

Seven songs deep, Test It Riddim keeps its focus tight, pairing Mas-Ski Productions with a small, purpose-built set of vocalists rather than chasing a crowded showcase. Nereus Joseph, Robert Emanuel and Winston Reedy do a lot of the heavy lifting here, with the cut count and the lineup both pointing to a roots-minded reggae set that was issued in November 2015. The riddim sits in that steady mid-tempo pocket, with a firm bassline underneath clean guitar chops and the sort of one-drop swing that leaves space for the singers to work the message. Sara Tobias and Kya Sh’Kwain add a sharper edge on the later tracks, but the whole thing stays on an even keel, moving with a measured pulse and a vocal approach that keeps the phrasing relaxed and direct.