Recently, Teflon Zincfence, Agent Sasco, and record label Out Deh Life gifted dancehall and reggae with a new riddim based on Sasco’s “Loco”, and “Loco Remix” ft. Bounty Killer & Kabaka Pyramid which dropped earlier this year. The Loco Riddim EP features seven songs, including six offerings other than Assassin’s “Loco Remix” from illustrious dancehall and reggae names such as Chronixx, Elephant Man, I Waata, Kelissa, and Mr Williamz.
Sasco’s “Loco Remix” with Bounty Killer and Kabaka Pyramid is the original track from which the riddim was born, introducing a new generation that is “searching for love from the likes on a photo”. The song’s official music video features ‘mini me’s’ of each artist, who perform the song’s verses denouncing negative energy, and discussing the journeys they’ve faced and will face with characteristic authenticity despite their age, making for a very enjoyable watch to accompany the song’s audio.
Chronixx features twice on the riddim with singles “Television is The Worst” and “So Brutal”. Both written by Romaine Arnett and Chronixx (real name Jamar McNaughton), the first discusses the effects of media and guided collective thinking on society. Chronixx’s distinctive vocals urge listeners to develop independent cognitive practices, singing, “Turn on yuh reasoning, look into these things, do you believe them?”. “So Brutal” switches the vibe, serving as a testament to love’s hidden ‘brutalities’ and its often painful effects on friendships, one’s emotions, and ability to expose oneself completely. “How come love so brutal?” he croons of the mutual pain experienced by both parties, “Only hope you knew, the things that love could do.”
Elephant Man’s familiar vocals utilize the Loco Riddim to describe life the ‘Ele Way.’ He details the party scene (“Anytime you see mi and my crew turn up”) with cunning lyrics and clear rhythmic flow. He intimidates any opposition with clever challenges, insinuating that there is no competition with lines like “Dem know we style deh hotter than a few thermos” and “Mek yuh gone away like when Cocoa Tea did lose him Sonia.” This song is sure to please Elephant Man fans with many well-placed lyrical gems.
I Waata jumps in to confirm that his toughness is “No Lie” and that he indeed still “ah run d road”. Clever lyrical content including lines, such as “I Waata mi name and yet still yuh nuh see no water run out of mi eye” are dotted throughout his short but sweet contribution on this riddim, providing an alternative pace and style to the EP’s diverse track list.
We get to see Kelissa “Step Out Bravely” amongst her male counterparts with sweet, angelic vocals and harmonies to uplift women and encourage listeners to carry on and keep calm in this crazy world. She dismisses the hypocrites and proclaims that “The victory is sure. Jah Jah pickney nah poor.” She offers praise to The Most High for her blessings despite the hardships and challenges that she may face. Kelissa’s harmonies and vocal runs add to her offering’s soothing, meditative quality.
In the EP’s final track, Mr Williamz’ goal is to be “Rich.” He sings of extravagant travels, houses, cars, and the addictiveness of making millions that he “haffi stash offshore”. Williamz encourages ghetto youths to focus, work hard, and never give up on their goals despite the current circumstances and systematic challenges they may face. He reminisces on “the time man ah sleep ‘pon floor” and juxtaposes these images of his prior poverty with his now-opulent lifestyle in his upbeat single full of rhymes.
The Loco Riddim EP is licensed by Soul Circle Music and is available now on all music streaming platforms.
