The new year has arrived, and with it, a fresh batch of reggae rock, surf-pop, and island-inspired vibes to keep the warm spirit alive, even in the chill of winter.
January has proven to be a promising month for the genre, featuring a mix of seasoned favorites and rising stars delivering sun-soaked anthems, introspective grooves, and collaborations that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Let’s dive into this month’s hottest releases.
A Sunny Start: Early January Drops
Bikini Trill kicks off 2025 with “Ay Summer” (Jan 10), featuring none other than Shwayze, an artist synonymous with laid-back, beachy soundscapes. This track exudes nostalgia for warm summer nights and carefree adventures, perfectly suited for a surf-trip playlist. Artikal Sound System follows suit with “Get Me Out” (Jan 10), a punchy, groove-driven track that solidifies their place in the scene as a must-listen band.
Mid-Month Heat: A Wave of Collaborations & Live Energy
The heart of January delivers a powerhouse of collaborations and emotive songwriting. Mihali’s single, “Easy” (Jan 21), enlists G. Love and Brett Dennen for a soulful, feel-good jam, while Ganja White Night and Stick Figure set the world ablaze (literally) with “Who Set the World on Fire” (Jan 21).
Adding to the collaborative magic, The Hip Abduction and Trevor Hall present “Pacific Coast Highway (Chill Version)” (Jan 21), a reimagined, meditative take on the original track, evoking an effortless road trip soundtrack. Unified Highway, the side project of Rebelution’s Eric Rachmany and producer Amp Live, continues to showcase their seamless fusion of reggae and electronic influences with a live cut of “Artificial Insanity” (Jan 21).
Meanwhile, solo artist Brendan Clemente treats fans to his full-length album, Peaks & Valleys (Jan 17), offering introspective storytelling paired with a raw, acoustic-reggae aesthetic. Dale and the ZDubs also deliver an edgy, high-energy single, “F.I.N.E.” (Jan 17), perfect for those who enjoy reggae rock with a touch of alternative grit.
Closing the Month with Legendary Vibes
January closes on a high note with a blend of reggae legends and modern innovators. Third World and Clive Hunt team up for a stunning reggae rendition of “Fields of Gold” (Jan 31), bringing an island twist to the beloved classic.
Hector Roots Lewis celebrates the spirit of the genre with his track “Celebration” (Jan 24), while Andy Frasco & The U.N. keep things wild with the high-energy “Try Not to Die” (Jan 24). For dancehall-infused reggae lovers, Govana & RajahWild’s “Toll Music” (Jan 31) delivers infectious beats and fiery lyricism.
To cap things off, Unified Highway brings another live gem with “Taking My Time (Live)” (Jan 31), further proving that their genre-blending sound thrives in a live setting.
A Strong Start to 2025
January has set the bar high for reggae rock in 2025, featuring an exciting mix of new-school artists and legends who continue to shape the scene. With fresh collaborations, inspired covers, and original bangers, these tracks promise to keep the good vibes rolling well into the year.
