Summer is behind us and we wanted to remind you of all the albums we had a chance to review over the summer. We are far from finished and this has been one of the busiest summers in recent memory for new releases. Take a look at published Album Reviews for MAGIC!, Rebelution, Roots of a Rebellion, SOWFLO, John Brown’s Body, Taco & Da Mofos and Giant Panda Guerrilla Dub Squad…
Coming up, we’ll have new reviews on new albums from Dirty Heads, Hirie, Sticky Fingers, Seedless, Katastro, Zach Deputy, Burn It Up, Fluid Foundation and more!
With album reviews, everyone has an opinion and no one is right or wrong, but the discussion is what we look forward too — as long as there is a discussion, people will continue to discover the music and listen for themselves. We want to hear your perspective and how the music speaks to you in contrast to our written reflections. The topic is always up for discussion as we want you to reply in a comment with a review & rating of your own!
Remember to stop by the site every Monday as we post new album reviews from both new & past releases from around the reggae-rock genre. You can view all of our Album Reviews under our Editorials tab by clicking HERE
MAGIC! – Primary Colours
“Some may not like the fact that this isn’t a reggae-rock album from front to back, but I have to commend the band for not pigeonholing themselves into a singular genre, especially since they’ve already reached mainstream success. This album will be a wild card of sorts in terms of mainstream success, but if you’re looking and open to something new, Primary Colours is definitely worth your attention…” READ MORE
Written & Reviewed By: Andrew Aroche
Rebelution – Falling Into Place
“It’s an album that’s really easy to get through, and the majority of songs possess a degree of likability. But at the same time, there aren’t any groundbreaking songs or absolute must-listens either. Falling Into Place is less run-of-the-mill as Count Me In, but is ultimately unable to reach the levels attained on the group’s first three albums. It’s a step in the right direction for the Isla Vista quartet, but to be fair, just a half-step…” READ MORE
Written & Reviewed By: Brian Winters
Sowflo – Such Is Life
“SOWLFO is known for their DIY attitude, but the album is well-produced and crisp throughout. Their debut has a number of appealing songs, and deserves the attention of reggae rock fans. However, Such Is Life does seem like a surface-scratcher. The Naples natives popped out several catchy tracks on this album, but it’s evident they have the ability to take those songs deeper. If and when that happens we could be looking at the new face of Florida reggae…” READ MORE
Written & Reviewed By: Brian Winters
Roots of a Rebellion – A Brother’s Instinct
“However, for what music did make it on to the tape, Roots of a Rebellion brought forth a fun and entertaining selection of music. The group effort dynamic really kept the album fresh throughout, each song possessing a unique appeal. Influences like Giant Panda Guerrilla Dub Squad, Passafire, and John Brown’s Body are evident on many tracks, but A Brother’s Instinct definitely stands out as distinctly Roots of a Rebellion…” READ MORE
Written & Reviewed By: Brian Winters
John Brown’s Body – Fireflies
“Though I don’t think Fireflies quite packs the same punch as its predecessor, it continuously grew on me, containing some of the best songs released so far this year. Fireflies is well-produced, and thankfully not over-produced. JBB impressively accomplishes their goal of a futuristic roots sound without needing to add any unnecessary bells and whistles. A full range of sounds and texture are simply standard issue when it comes to JBB. Fireflies is no different…” READ MORE
Written & Reviewed By: Brian Winters
Taco & Da Mofos – Taco & Da Mofos
“When it comes to fun, you can count on these guys to deliver. With this album, Taco & Da Mofos proved that despite their imperfections, they’re able to release a consistent stream of unique and enjoyable songs. Although this album doesn’t quite capture the magic that made Nocturnal Gold so loveable, it’s still an enjoyable album from front to back; especially considering it was put together in less than six months. However, expediting this album proved to be its Achilles heel…” READ MORE
Written & Reviewed By: Andrew Aroche
Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad – Make It Better
“In any case, GPGDS have created yet another impressive album. The New York band has proved they have a factory-like ability to put out good music, regardless of genre. 10 songs in length and just over a half hour long, Make It Better is a quick, but enjoyable listen. Make It Better is easy on the ears and definitely has a broad spectrum of appeal. Without a clear-cut best song, it’s an album where each listener will likely have a different set of favorites…” READ MORE
Written & Reviewed By: Brian Winters
