What: “Dred Reggae EP” by Med Dred
Netlabel: Dub-o-phonic
This is a really great six-song EP full of classic dub and reggae sounds released in August 2013. Med Dred is a Cypriot, but has apparently spent a lot of time in the UK (Brixton is specifically mentioned). He lists various well-known musical influences including Scientist whose style I think I hear the most in this work. In any case, Med Dred has clearly absorbed many of reggae’s top rank and that is evident in his music.
Overall this EP is filled with familiar sounds brushed up with some modern production sheen. Most tracks fall into the dub category but there are also some vocals sprinkled throughout, most prominently on “Empty Words” (followed, perhaps inevitably, by a version track called “Dub-o-phonic Words”). You’ll hear lots of echo, melodica, and great production throughout the six songs.
Dub-o-phonic says they are the first netlabel from Cyprus, and who am I to disagree? The label’s focus is on dub “whether it would be electronic or acoustic/organic, roots or steppers, classic or contemporary.” They are fairly new (first release was in June 2013) but already have quite a lineup of musicians from places as diverse as Siberia and Argentina, among many others. Everything I’ve listened to so far is very high quality, and they’ve released quite a good selection in their short existence. I’m looking forward to visiting often.