DUB EVOLUTION: September 2026
"Dub Evolution" is a column by René Wynands. From time to time, he compiles a list of the most interesting new albums and shares his thoughts on them.
Albums, Tunes and other Releases
REVIEW: Masicka – Forever Reign
The youngins can outgore and outkink each other all they want; Kartel and Mavado can keep museumizing their merits with all the business savvy they can muster. Masicka is the king of dancehall.
REVIEW: Buju Banton – Too Too Bad
On "Too Too Bad", Buju Banton barrels through the history of reggae and dancehall in decisive two-decade jumps. Davide Bortot listened and reflected.
RIDDIM CHECK: July 2026
Some of the crucial reggae and dancehall releases of the past weeks: Silly Walks' "Double Trouble" riddim, Notnice' "Walk Out juggling, Jugglerz' "Moonride" selection, Shenseea's "Brucksweat", Koffee & Skillibeng's "Rapid Fyah" and Gentleman's "Nah Worry"
REVIEW: Capleton – Heights of Fire
“Heights of Fire” is Capleton’s first full length album in 16 years. The long wait for a big project brings both a certain magnitude, but also high expectations for the veteran to deliver something cohesive and exciting.
REVIEW: Destin Conrad – Nervous
After carving out a name for himself in the Alt-R&B scene the past few years, Conrad turned his expertise to Jazz on wHIMSY! in 2025, and now continues flaunting his versatility with an upcoming Reggae LP and its Dancehall introduction ‘Nervous’.
REVIEW: Marcus Gad – For All
Three years after his last album the fifth longplayer by the Rastafarian artist from New Caledonia once again breathes sustainability, community spirit, spirituality and resilience, placing itself as far as possible from Babylon’s destructive tendencies.
REVIEW: Aza Lineage – Rebel Daawta
The collaboration between Aza Lineage and King Jammy on the formers debut album is another stroke of good fortune when it comes to the combination of young, exceptionally talented female roots singers and a veteran producers.
REVIEW: Samory I – Revelation
Samory I’s "Revelation" blends roots reggae, soulful songwriting and modern influences, delivering powerful messages, personal reflections and standout collaborations.