New Video: Smif N Wessun f/ Junior Reid "Solid Ground" (New EP Available 12-3) -2013

Smif N Wessun to Release Reggae-Inspired EP, ‘Born and Raised,’ on December 3^rd, produced entirely by Beatnick & K-Salaam with features from Junior Reid, Jr. Kelly & Jahdan

The original Partners N Crime, Smif n Wessun, are set to release their new EP, ‘Born and Raised,’ December 3^rd on Duck Down Music.  The 6-song EP is a blend between reggae, roots and culture, and hip-hop, showcasing the pioneers in a new, yet familiar light.

During the 1980s, Brooklyn became home to one of the largest West Indian communities in the world. Growing up in BK, Tek and Steele were constantly surrounded with West Indian food, artifacts and culture. Steele adds, “I learned about reggae from my younger brother (Top Dog, of OGC) and my Uncle. They loved watching the Jamaican DJ sound clashes on TV. My Uncle would buy them all on VHS.” Since then, the West Indian, reggae influence has been present on many of their albums, but this is the first time it has been channeled to become the focus of a full-fledged project.   

There is no filler on the EP. Each song has its own character and touches on important social themes such as materialism, institutional prejudice, and the throes of poverty. Features include Rastafari vocalist Jr. Kelly, reggae legend Junior Reid, and longtime collaborator, Jahdan Blackkamoore, whom many fans will recall from “Sound Bwoy Burriell.” The singers lace the tracks with powerful hooks, traditional Jamaican patois and melodic riddims.

The EP is entirely produced by Beatnick and K-Salaam, who have produced tracks for Capleton, Sizzla, Buju Banton, Collie Buddz and more. The duo’s instrumental backdrops combine the tribal aesthetic of 1970s Jamaica with their trademark hip-hop sensibility. The reverb-drenched organs, dub-plated snare rolls, and hazy guitar licks swirl into smoky soundscapes under Tek and Steele’s aggressive vocals. Tek says, “When those dudes get into the studio, it’s like magic.”

Admittedly, ‘Born and Raised’ is a deviation from Smif N Wessun’s previous releases. However, with the genre lines becoming increasingly blurred, now seemed like the perfect time to expand upon their well-established sound. Steele states, “We made this album to add to the culture. We want this to allow people to congregate. We’re all going to reminisce about how beautiful the struggle was.“ His words convey the energy laden throughout the EP. ‘Born and Raised’ is a raw, candid acknowledgment of the past; a modern reflection of the harsh realities of the present; and a hopeful, yet uncertain outlook on the future.

‘Born and Raised’ will be available worldwide at digital retailers on Dec. 3rd. In addition, Smif N Wessun are offering a limited-edition physical bundle from the Duck Down online shop, featuring customized rolling papers, a customized grinder, illustrated t-shirt, CD Digipak and 45 vinyl with the lead singles, “Born and Raised” feat. Jr. Kelly & “Solid Ground” feat. Junior Reid.