Long Island, New York-based rock outfit IRIEspect recently dropped their self-titled, debut long player via Dubshot Records.
The band’s sound merges elements of Latin, roots, dancehall, reggae, hip-hop, and live dub into contagiously impressive music. On October 20, IRIEspect will perform with The Wailers at Paramount, NY. Their dynamic live shows have captivated audiences across over 200 performances in the LI/NYC markets and the surrounding East Coast.
IRIEspect’s recent shows performances include the Great South Bay Festival in NY with Pepper, Badfish, Tropidelic, and more; supporting the legendary Long Beach Dub Allstars in Richmond, VA, and Ocean Mist, RI; a live on-air performance and interview at Irie Radio at Seacrets Ocean City, MD; and shows with The Quasi Kings at Bowery Electric, NYC, and with Sensamotion at Mercury Lounge, NYC.
They have shared the stage and collaborated with artists such as Ballyhoo, Pete Francis of Dispatch, Alific of Stick Figure, Ras Ajai of Dutty Rock (Sean Paul’s record label), Marley of Rebelution, Gary Dread of The Movement, Dale & The ZDubs, Roots of Creation, Expendables, Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad, Sid Mills of Steel Pulse, The Grouch, Treehouse, Joe Samba, Sundub, Half Pint, and HR of Bad Brains.
IRIEspects’s single “Blasting” was featured as the best new single in the Tun Up Reggae playlist on Apple Music, achieving 1,000 album streams on Apple Music within the first day of release (July 20th), and accumulating 10,000 all-time streams on Apple Music.
Encompassing 11 tracks, entry points on the album include the opener, “Blasting,” an infectious reggae tune with a tight rhythm, lusciously braying organ, and a controlled guitar solo. Expressive vocals and glowing harmonies give the lyrics a buoyant feel.
Dripping with nostalgic surfaces atop tasty percussion and layered harmonics, “Children” projects a swaying, beguiling, mid-tempo flow. Highlighted by a delicious organ solo, the tune reveals tender emotions.
The Latin-flavored “La Cocina” rolls out on a voluptuous rhythm drenched in a delectable swinging motion. Whereas “IRIE Tikiland” offers a lysergic mood with an exotic sensation. Drifting brass accents imbue the melody with mysterious tangs. Deep, resonant vocals give the tune a mystical vibe.
IRIEspect’s version of Nirvana’s “All Apologies” features ghostlike, rippling sonic hues, infusing the tune with a dreamy, floating movement. “La Morena,” featuring Juan Jurado, ties the album off with scrummy, reggaeton-laced relish, riding a vibrant dembow beat.
IRIEspect’s debut album is a cogent, coherent record marinated in galvanizing beats, evocative vocals, and the band’s essential sound.
