Protoje Ancient Future
Published Mar 11, 2015
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)