Roots Alley Collective to release new rhythm

Roots Alley Collective is ready to unleash a new rhythm, titled The High Tide Project.

"This project was inspired by COVID-19, two weeks after the shutdown in our state. We all took our instruments to a friend's studio and set up camp. We were not sure what the whole pandemic would bring, but we knew for sure we would make the best of it by recording some music together. It was perfect timing. Since we all play and live together, we were finally able to bring some of that magic into the studio," label founder Shaquan 'Rockahz' Gabriel explained. The composition of the music took about two months.

Easy on the ears

"This riddim is very easy on the ears. Although it has a soothing quality, in the midst of listening the drum, bass and percussion hold that traditional convictive sound that we know as reggae. Each vocal track takes the listener through a story," Gabriel elaborated.

With five listed tracks, the rhythm features Jahriffe, Addis Pablo, Jah Defender, Black Loyalty and Roots Alley Collective.

"I hope that while listening this project fans get inspired to be great, knowing that the tide won't be low forever. Soon the tide will rise and we can 'freely sail' again, open to the possibilities of a changed world after the pandemic," Gabriel said.

Roots Alley Collective is comprised of Caribbean musicians, Christoff Glaude (bass), Gabriel (drums) and RJ Walters (keyboard). Formed in 2019, they are all currently based in Boston, Massachusetts. The group has had an eventful 2021, with the release of Lifted by Jahriffe in April, as well as a host of events such as their participation in the Caribbean Carnival in Boston under the group name 'One Jam Jouvert'. Additionally, Glaude and Gabriel toured for three months with reggae artiste Mighty Mystic.

"Right now there are a few more riddims that we are in the process of getting vocals for so that we can start the mixing process. Also, as the new year is creeping upon us, we are getting ready to plan our 'One Jam' Jouvert band for Boston Caribbean Carnival," Gabriel revealed.