Throw Back Riddim (2011) – No Doubt Records

Kemar McGregor’s No Doubt Records put Throw Back Riddim out in 2011, and it sits comfortably in the producer’s run of polished roots-leaning contemporary reggae. McGregor, a Jamaican-American producer who launched No Doubt Records in 2001, built his name on clean, radio-friendly arrangements that still leave space for heavyweight voices and serious lovers rock sentiment.

Throw Back has an easy mid-tempo sway, with a warm one-drop feel, steady bass movement, and a soft-edged melodic line that gives the singers room to stretch out. It’s not a flashy juggling riddim; the strength is in the restraint. The vibe is nostalgic without sounding dusty, which suits the title and the lineup.

The biggest pull here is the way established vocalists approach the same backdrop from different angles. Gyptian teams with Honorebel on “What A Woman, ” giving the cut a modern duet feel, while Tanya Stephens brings her sharp, direct writing to “Free Spirit. ” Sanchez lands beautifully on “If Its Right Its Right, ” a song that fits his smooth tenor and long history as one of reggae’s premier lovers singers. Etana and Vybrant on “I Love You” add a softer, more contemporary crossover touch, and Singing Melody’s “Painful Memories” and Anthony Cruz’s “Talk It Like It” deepen the set with polished, emotional performances. Lukie D, Tony Curtis, Glenn Washington, Sadiki and the others keep the riddim rooted in strong melody and adult love songs rather than gimmicks.

It’s a 2011 showcase that feels designed for selectors who like their reggae tuneful, steady, and built around voices that know how to carry a chorus.