Jamaican Riddims

A "riddim", as Jamaican jargon uses it, is a song track of which different vocalists (singers, "toasters) make their own version, each with their own lyrics and vocal melodies. Stricly speaking, a "version" is the naked form of a riddim, containing no vocals. The end of which is, of course, in order to sing along - a bit like the Japanese and their karaoke versions. Whereas most reggae subgenres conceive the riddim as a bass loop combined with a particular drum pattern (exluding the vocals or melodies), others see the (original) melody as also pertaining to the riddim. This is especially true in the case of new-roots reggae.

In the reggae culture there are album releases called "one riddims". These usually contain about a dozen vocal versions and one instrumental. This allows each vocalist to tell his own story. Moreover, each version often contains slight production differences, particularly regarding the beats or rhythm section.

My good friend The Alsomighty Jah-roen has provided me with a fine collection of such riddims. I'll post two albums here, the first being a number of tracks Jah-roen added together himself, the second being a "real" release called Riddim Driven - Hot Gyal. I'd advise you to turn on "shuffle play" for the former, as it doesn't have a numerical order. Enjoint!

Here's a review about Riddim Driven - Hot Gyal: One of VP’s latest releases in their Riddim Driven series is the Hot Gyal riddim. This is pure dancehall niceness with performances to inspire dancing. Several tracks have been burning up the place and creating great excitement for the release of the riddim album. Key tracks include “Vibe With Us” by Brian & Tony Gold featuring Bounty Killer, “Hall Of Fame” by Vybz Kartel, “Hol Gal” by Anthony Malvo featuring Capleton and Jah Thunder, and “Marijuana” featuring Sizzla and Jigsy King.

Reggae_Riddims_256-320.rar

Riddim_Driven_Hot_Gyal_320.rar

posted by Paxjorge @ Tuesday, May 23, 2006