In the space of 11 tracks, Protoje proves that roots reggae is alive and well. With Ancient Future, his third studio project, the Jamaican artist updates the grassroots vibe with just a hint of hip-hop sensibility for a rock solid effort. Working with producer Winta James bears positive fruit this time out — Protoje's sound is well honed at this point, and the understated production complements his delivery and emphasizes why Protoje is such a strong new voice in the genre.
Single "Who Knows," featuring Chronixx, is already a contender for best reggae track of the year, and breezy numbers like throwback "Sudden Flight" and the slow simmer of "Protection" deserve repeated plays. If there's a soggy spot, it would be "Love Gone Cold," a throwaway number that doesn't quite hang together musically or lyrically, but it's just a bump on an otherwise pleasing trip.
Overall, Ancient Future is aptly titled. This measured mix of modern-minded old school reggae hits the spot from start to finish.
(Indiggnation Collective/Overstand Entertainment)Single "Who Knows," featuring Chronixx, is already a contender for best reggae track of the year, and breezy numbers like throwback "Sudden Flight" and the slow simmer of "Protection" deserve repeated plays. If there's a soggy spot, it would be "Love Gone Cold," a throwaway number that doesn't quite hang together musically or lyrically, but it's just a bump on an otherwise pleasing trip.
Overall, Ancient Future is aptly titled. This measured mix of modern-minded old school reggae hits the spot from start to finish.
