New releases this week: Roots/Lovers Rock

Review: Alpha & Omega are serious UK dub legends and now they are back on ZamZam with a typically powerful new anthem featuring Steppas Records' Nai-Jah. Over a thunderous bassline, melodica, sparkling keys and evocative jungle sounds, Nai-Jah's heartfelt lyrics call for empathy and action as he signs "Money-making has filled our minds with disease." The flipside jam on this fine 7" is 'The Dubplate Trembles' which extends the vibes in classic style. Another fine collaboration from these mainstays who have already long since assured their legacy over the course of 30-plus albums that have shaped global sound system culture.

Review: Joe Armon-Jones brings a fresh layer of depth to his ever-evolving sound with 'Sorrow', a track that takes its time to breathe, much like a slow unfolding narrative. The piece moves with a deliberate grace, weaving together his distinctive jazz-infused piano work with an underlying electronic pulse. It starts subtly, slowly layering textures that push the track into deeper emotional terrain. The interplay between live drums and ambient synths creates a fluid yet focused atmosphere, reflecting the introspective mood the title suggests. With 'Sorrow', Armon-Jones proves once again that he is unafraid to let his ideas mature at their own pace, leading listeners through a rich, captivating experience.

Review: Samuel van Dijk (VC-118A) and Rasmus Hedlund deepen their journey into roots-inspired dub techno with their third release featuring Jamaica-born, Finland-based vocalist Benji. His commanding voice adds layers of introspection and wisdom, enhancing the project's meditative qualities. 'Better Way' leads with a rich, traditional dub structure, its heavy basslines anchoring a reflection on humanity's challenges and the call for solutions. Benji's vocal delivery is earnest and impactful, carrying a hopeful message that resonates deeply. The instrumental 'Better Version' follows, highlighting intricate production details like shimmering synth melodies and reverberating drum patterns. On Side-2, 'Child Was I' ventures into atmospheric depths, pairing Benji's thoughtful reflections on personal growth with an expansive, slow-burning bassline. This track unfolds gradually, creating an enveloping soundscape that rewards close listening. The accompanying 'Child Version' strips back the vocals, bringing the textured production and haunting melodic layers to the forefront. With its perfect balance of lyrical depth and intricate sound design, this release honors dub techno traditions while charting its own unique path.

Review: First released way back in 1982 on Greensleeves, Eek-A-Mouse's 'Ganja Smuggling' is a towering example of early 80s "singjaying", a style of reggae vocal improv made popular by its combination of toasting and singing. Here we open with an asphyxial, spitballing steppers sound, as 'Mouse is heard scatting and bidi-bonging in his signature opening style, shortly before launching into a cautionary tale about working as a border lines marijuana smuggler. The track deals in a stoic, forborne whimsy, comically scatting and riff-licking through what is implicitly portrayed as an otherwise thankless and unforgiving task. This 7" reissue marks an important milestone in Greensleeves' release catalogue, harking back to one of Eek's earliest cuts laid down with kingpin producer Henry "Junjo" Lawes, the association with whom helped fuel Eek's early celebrity.

Review: A reissue that captures the essence of Tosh's deeply spiritual and politically charged reggae. The album opens with the iconic title track, blending soulful melodies with a powerful message. 'Recruiting Soldiers' follows, reflecting Tosh's political activism, while 'Can't You See' offers a heartfelt plea for peace. Tracks like 'The Day the Dollar Die' and 'Rumors of War' showcase his unique ability to combine social commentary with infectious rhythms. Pressed on limited heavyweight green vinyl, this reissue delivers a fresh way to experience an album that remains a cornerstone of reggae's rich legacy.

Review: Who doesn't love a bit of sophisticated soul? We certainly do and it's always good to hear some reworks of the soul great's finest cuts for the dancefloor. And that's what we have here on a new 7" that opens with a disco version of 'Cherish the Day' and doesn't go hard, instead building in some gentle drums and lo-fi melodies, swooning vocals and a mystical late night sense of romance. On the flip, we get a lovers rock version of 'Nothing Can Come Between Us' which adds plenty of lovely guitar lines to bring that island vibe while the shuffling drums lock you in gently.