Coyote Island have never fit neatly into a single lane. The Maine-grown collective—anchored by vocalist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Mike O’Hehir—built their following on a dreamy blend of folk roots, tropical psychedelia, indie shimmer, and gentle reggae sway. Now, with the release of “Where I Started (Reggae Version),” the band leans deeper into its island-leaning DNA, teaming up with GRAMMY-nominated and one time winner, producer J-Vibe to reimagine one of the standout tracks from their recent album Shadow Magic.
Where the original version floated on indie-pop warmth, the new cut tilts into something earthier—roots-driven, bass-forward, and undeniably coastal. J-Vibe (Jason Farmer), who’s earned accolades for his work with reggae staples including Third World and contributions to Morgan Heritage’s acclaimed Strictly Roots, gives the remix a lived-in pulse that feels both classic and forward-leaning. His production credits across reggae, R&B, and hip-hop ground the track in a tradition Coyote Island has long flirted with but never fully embraced until now.
Coyote Island’s momentum hasn’t slowed since. The band is currently crisscrossing the country on an 18-date run with The Elovaters, bringing the Shadow Magic era to a wider national audience. Their live show has continued to grow, with recent dates listed across the U.S., including a November 14 appearance at Atlanta’s Variety Playhouse (per setlist.fm), as the group expands well beyond their New England roots.
J-Vibe’s presence on the track also underscores Coyote Island’s widening creative orbit. The veteran producer—whose résumé spans genre, generation, and geography—has been spotlighted in outlets like Caribbean Life for his ability to bridge modern reggae with contemporary pop sensibilities. His fingerprints give “Where I Started (Reggae Version)” the kind of depth and rhythmic confidence that pulls the song into classic reggae territory without losing the breezy indie spirit that defines the band.
With new music moving, a heavy touring calendar, and an expanding sonic palette, Coyote Island appear to be deepening their identity rather than reinventing it. “Where I Started (Reggae Version)” is less a detour than a zoom-in—an invitation to hear one of their most resonant songs through a different lens, with one of modern reggae’s most respected producers at the helm.
Check out the track here.
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