Reggae music.
The genre was perhaps most internationally-popularized by Bob Marley, following suit in the legacy of a select number of Jamaicans exploring, defining, and pushing the boundaries of the style, primarily in the 60's and 70's.
Since... the style has retained its charm. However, few artists have successfully managed to tread new territory, or match the magic of the reggae classics.
As a DJ, who spent copious amounts of time searching through music, I had always found it incredibly difficult to find new reggae that was on par with Marley, the Toots, etc. Thus, finding such gems is a real treat. And, I had recently rediscovered one that surprisingly passed me by before - and probably was overlooked by many:
Snoop Lion's "Reincarnated"
The album came out in 2013, just a month before I saw the rap legend performing live in Bali at Potato Head Beach Club.
At the time, I didn't fully understand what was up with Snoop Dogg's renaming as "Snoop Lion." And although I had listened to the album around that time, for whatever reason, it didn't really catch my interest.
Fast forward 4.5 years...
After months sitting on my Netflix's 'watch later' list, I finally sat down to watch the Netflix special, "Reincarnated" - which is an outstanding documentary on his journey producing the album during a pilgramage to Jamaica for his "reincarnation" as the reggae artist, Snoop Lion.
Spare the details, it was inspiring. Very much so.
And consequently, I downloaded the album. And while up snowboarding at Whistler during the last of spring riding, gave it a proper listen.
Fucking MASTERPIECE.
(Ok, maybe that was a bit overdramatic. Nonetheless, it’s DOPE.)
Executive-produced by Diplo / Major Lazer, the expectations should not have been less.
Maybe I needed another 4.5 years of experience producing & listening to music myself, from an engineering standpoint, to fully appreciate the work done on this album. Though whatever the case, I was impressed.
I don't often make music recommendations, and don't make them lightly when I do.
However, for any reggae fans reading this - especially if also a Snoop and/or Diplo / Major Lazer fan - who may have not listened to Reincarnation...
There are probably some real gems on there you'll thoroughly appreciate.
Of course, it might not be everyone's bag.
But should you be game for exploring a modern take on the timeless reggae style, delivered by two of the biggest & most-influencial names in popular music, Snoop Lion's "Reincarnated" album is one to check out.
(As well as the dope Netflix documentary, "Reincarnated".)
Enjoy!
