Classeeks, the second album for 2025 from singer Carl Meeks, was released on December 12. It is produced by Cedrik “Kiko” Ynesta of France for the RubADub MKRT label.

As the title suggests, the album has a throwback flavour. All the ‘riddims’ on Classeeks are classic beats that have dominated dancehall music for over 40 years, including Throw Me Corn, Movie Star and Mr Bassie.

It was Ynesta’s idea to revisit some of those timeless jams which the Kingston-born Meeks first listened to when he was a regular at dances in the 1970s and 1980s.

“These riddims are so special because that’s where (dancehall music) started, so it give me that vibe,” said Meeks, who is based in North Carolina.

Classeeks has 13 songs including What’s Going On, a collaboration with deejay Screechy Dan, which is currently doing the rounds. No Regrets, Ram Dance Master (featuring Johnny P), and Walking Dead (with Derrick Parker) were released prior to December 12.

Meeks is best known for the songs, Weh Dem Fah and Youthman, which were released in the late 1980s. Both were produced by Hugh “Redman” James, whose Redman International label and sound system were dominant during that period.

Eight months ago, Meeks released Legendary, an album produced by Big Bout Ya Records. With Classeeks, Ynesta is determined to broaden the artiste’s base.

“He wanted to capture the younger audience and let the older ones indulge in the new songs on these riddims. I select the artistes knowing that they are vintage singers just like the riddims and also artistes I admired,” said Meeks.

– Howard Campbell