Top Rated Riddim – Tad’s International Records

Top Rated Riddim finds Tad’s International Records in a patient, roots-minded mode, with the cuts moving through conscious reggae voices and a clean one-riddim flow that leaves room for the singers to do the heavy lifting. Sizzla’s “Better Know This” and Tony Rebel’s “When Jah Ready” give the set its sharpest edges, while Queen Africa’s “Nine Outa Ten” and Bobby Tenna’s “Nothing Comes Easy” keep the message steady and reflective. The project came out in 2009 and runs with 11 tracks, ending, as these compilations should, with the version tucked in last so the vocal cuts set the tone before the rhythm gets its solo turn.