New releases today: Reggae

Review: Populous's Moonbaton Vol. 1 marks a strong return to Wonderwheel Recordings, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the darker realms of instrumental reggaeton and moombahton. With tracks like 'Flauta Magica, which intricately weaves brooding synths and dembow beats with ethereal flute melodies and 'Sapo,' a foreboding journey layered with monstrous basslines and whimsical melodies, Populous demonstrates his mastery in crafting atmospheric soundscapes. Hailing from Southern Italy, Populous's global approach to music-making shines through, reflecting his diverse influences and musicological background. With previous releases like Night Safari and Azulejos, Populous has established himself as a versatile artist, while also making waves in the fashion world as a sound designer for renowned brands. Moonbaton Vol. 1 sets the stage for an eagerly anticipated series, promising an enchanting fusion of cosmic inspiration and rhythmic exploration.

Review: Zion Train remain a unique and rebellious contemporary dub act, updating the classic sound for the present era, all while channelling a uniquely icy sound of their own, not to mention an exciting live act and an immediately impressing frontal voice by singer Molara. Dissident Sound came out in 2023 and was met with acclaim for its harshly sparse and cold, but still quirky and sunny palette, clearly informed by trip-hop and northernmost hinterlands of post-punk; this subsequent remix EP, however, curves the ball once again, charting new reworks by the likes of Paolo Baldini, Dub FX, Insintensi and Professor Skank.