IRIEspect’s self-titled debut album is a vibrant introduction to a band that is quickly making a name for themselves in the reggae rock scene. Released under Dubshot Records, the “IRIEspect LP” offers a rich tapestry of sounds that showcases the band’s ability to blend various genres seamlessly, creating a unique listening experience that resonates with fans of both traditional and contemporary reggae. This acts as the follow-up to their single, “Blasting”.
The album is a celebration of the diverse influences that shape IRIEspect’s sound. From the outset, it’s clear that this is not just a band that sticks to one formula. Instead, IRIEspect masterfully fuses roots reggae with elements of rock, live dub, hip hop, and even Latin rhythms. This genre-blending approach makes the album feel fresh and dynamic, giving listeners something new to discover with each track.
One of the standout singles from the album and the opening track, “Blasting”, has already made waves in the digital music world. Featured as the best new single in the Tun Up Reggae playlist on Apple Music, it’s a track that encapsulates the energy and spirit of the album. The single’s success on streaming platforms, including reaching 1,000 streams within the first day of release and going on to reach over 10,000 streams to date, underscores the band’s growing popularity and the strong connection they are building with their audience.
Bringing classic reggae into the modern 21st century, IRIEspect impresses throughout their 11 tracks. It’s no surprise that “Blasting” is performing well; it’s a tuneful and rhythmic track with an addictive beat and unforgettable lyrics. The chilled summer vibes paired with positive lyrics ensure that every listener enjoys this song. It is followed by “Children”, which builds on the reggae foundation of the previous track by blending in a touch of chilled rock. The fusion of these elements complements the catchy, repeated lyrics, setting the tone for the album’s vibrant and innovative direction.
Track number three is a collaboration with Ras Ajai, titled “La Cocina”, which leans into their reggae-flowing sound but mixes it up with a bit of Latin flavour. The lyrics warp effortlessly around the melody with Ras Ajai also making his mark with some deep strong vocals that pair brilliantly with IRIEspect’s vocalist.
This is followed by “Strong Island”, a laid-back fusion of rock and reggae that makes an immediate impact as soon as the vocals kick in. IRIEspect showcases their instrumental prowess here, with standout guitar chords taking the spotlight, supported by reggae drum beats, hypnotic keys, and a powerful, infectious hook in the lyrics. This is bound to be the must-hear-live track as we bet the live energy is electric with this one.
“Realize” is the next track which takes the rock elements from the previous track and fuses them even more so with the reggae sound embellished by the hard rock vocals in the verses which contrasts brilliantly with the reggae chorus, showcasing IRIEspect’s awesome artistry and their exceptional delivery. Next up is “Legal” which features F.A.M.E., stripping it back down to a relaxing reggae rhythm so that they can twist hip-hop energy around the beat with some awesome rap flows from both artists, but it’s the brilliant production of the track that helps F.A.M.E. to truly take the spotlight, delivering strength and a gentle rap flow, that adds an impressive layer to this track.
Track seven, “IRIE Tikiland”, begins with an experimental concept that highlights the superb abilities of the band’s instrumentalists. After a minute, soulful vocals welcome us to IRIE Tikiland, though they take a step back, allowing the drums, keys, bass, guitars, and various other instruments to take centre stage. This is followed by “All Apologies”, a cover of the classic Nirvana track. Naturally, IRIEspect takes the rock song and flips it on its head into a reggae-rock creation that we can’t help but love. This band prove exactly why they’re ones to watch and why they are trailblazers in the reggae music scene.
“Good Good Lovin'” follows next with a nostalgic reggae beat mixed with a gentle pop melody. The backing track adds pop-rock elements while the vocals pair well with the flow of the song. embedding the addicting chorus in one’s head. “Tonight” is the penultimate track on the album and features Kyle Bell. It flares up some nostalgic reggae while updating it with rock drums that drive the beat.
This is followed by the last track on the album, “La Morena”, which features Juan Jurado who is a member of this band. This track brings experimental back to the table and ends the album on a high showcasing the band’s creativity, passion, and hard-working attitude, Hip-hop flows in with Juan Jurado impressing with his incredible rap flow and ending the entire 11-track album on a high note.
Overall, IRIEspect’s self-titled debut album is a dynamic and innovative journey through the fusion of classic reggae with modern elements of rock, hip-hop, and Latin influences. Across 11 tracks, the band not only showcases their versatility and instrumental prowess but also their ability to create a cohesive sound that still surprises and delights from start to finish. Each track offers something unique while contributing to the album’s overall energy and flow, making it a must-listen for reggae fans and newcomers alike. With this album, IRIEspect firmly establishes themselves as a creative force in the contemporary reggae scene, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating what they’ll do next.
The band—comprised of Bryan Kelly, Juan Jurado, Michael Ortsman, Michael Celano, and Nick Corredor—have also been making waves with their live performances. Recent shows alongside renowned acts like Pepper, Badfish, and the legendary Long Beach Dub Allstars have solidified their reputation as a must-see live act. Their ability to translate the vibrant energy of their studio recordings into electrifying stage performances has earned them enthusiastic receptions across various East Coast venues. With an upcoming performance supporting The Wailers at Paramount NY in October, IRIEspect is set to further elevate their standing in the reggae rock community.
With their growing fan base, successful streaming numbers, and an increasingly busy touring schedule, IRIEspect is poised for a bright future in the music world. If this debut album is any indication, they are definitely a band to watch in the coming years.
IRIEspect’s debut self-titled album is available to download and stream, right now, across all platforms via DubShot Records.