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.
Brand New Content
Gentleman: Serenity and Gratitude
Two old white men start talking about one of their new albums and, before long, find themselves going off on tangents about the growing sense of calm that comes with a receding hairline, the weather, lapdogs, family, Mallorca, cultural appropriation, racist incidents at German festivals and scandal surrounding a roast chicken.
D’YANI: It’s A Journey, Not A Hype
He didn’t chase the hype, he took his time, nurtured his talent and learned from his grandmother, an alleged detour via Downsound Records and not least from his current producer Kareem Burell of XTM Nation, who crafted some wonderful reggae riddims tailor-made for the singer’s classic soul voice. The result can be heard on D’yani’s first full-length album „Live Life And Prosper“
Maureen: Martinique’s Bad Queen
Maureen is taking Martinique’s Shatta sound global. The Bad Queen talks Creole identity, Dancehall influences, her rise to success and the culture behind the music.
BELOW THE BASSLINE: Congo Ashanti
The story of "Congo Ashanti": How Corsican bassist Philippe Quilichini helped The Congos bridge Kingston, London and Paris on their 1979 roots reggae classic.
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.
REGGAE GEEL 2026: Good Things Come To Those Who Wait
For the first time RIDDIM travels to Reggae Geel 2026, the mother of all European Reggae Festivals, and is excited.
REGGAE JAM 2026: Vibes, Treats, a Musical Utopia, and a Veritable Storm of Criticism
Continue ReadingREGGAE JAM 2026: Vibes, Treats, a Musical Utopia, and a Veritable Storm of Criticism
A look back at Reggae Jam 2026: great live performances, the festival's unmatched community spirit and a controversy that reached far beyond the festival grounds.
Stranger Cole: Remembered
Stranger Cole was a talented singer and a humble and joyful soul. David Katz recollects memories from time shared with him and lets the man talk for himself.