PRODUCER Winta James recently released the Gratitude rhythm via his Overstand Records imprint.

The project features six artistes, Jaz Elise, Samory-I, Mortimer, Kumar, Naomi Cowan, and Ras-I.

A contemporary one-drop reggae beat, it features traditional drum and bass from Chris Meredith and Wilburn “Squidly” Cole. The songs, recorded during the novel coronavirus pandemic, finds the artistes in a reflective mood, their lyrics centreing around themes of gratefulness, love, faith, and self-awareness.

On April 27 a launch of the project featuring live performances from the artistes was held at Dubwise in Kingston.

The tracks are Gratitude by Jaz Elise, Love and Mercy by Samory-I, Keep that Fire Lit by Mortimer, The Voice by Naomi Cowan, Time Won’t Wait by Ras-I, and When the Smoke Clears by Kumar.

It was Cowan’s first time working with James.

“He played the rhythm for me and we started to reason about the fact that young women and females like myself are so often subjected to people’s assumptions or expectations.” Naomi said. “One of my favourite quotes is ‘If I’m busy being you, who is available to be me?’…which is pretty much saying, ‘I only have one time here on earth so why would I try to be somebody else?’ That’s what this song is about. I know that people watch and compare me —whether to my parents or other female artistes — or they have their opinions. At the end of the day, I try to let my music speak for itself.”

Ras-I’s Time Won’t Wait is a charge to the younger generation; it is a reminder that most, if not all, is achievable in life.

“The song was written to help build confidence and to help shine light on the youths; telling them that through hard work, smart work and the Most High anything is achievable,” Ras-I shared.

Kumar’s When the Smoke Clears takes a slightly different turn as it explores the theme of personal tragedy while underscoring the importance of remaining faithful to Jah for clarity and peace.

“This song is very personal to me; I lost my second son around the time I wrote it. It’s really how I felt,” he shared.

Winta James is best-known for his productions including Who Knows by Protoje and Chronixx, Switch It Up by Protoje and Koffee, Here Comes Trouble by Chronixx, Is It Worth It (Gunman World) by Damian Marley, Modern Day Judas by Jesse Royal, City Life by Rebelution and Lightning by Mortimer.

His previous rhythm projects include Roots Man, Militancy, and Mile High.