Welcome To Florida
Controlled Substance Sound Labs, 2022
8/10
The South Florida reggae rockers Artikal Sound System return with another batch of tunes, where Chris Montague (guitar), Fabian Acuna (bass), Christopher Cope (keys), Adam Kampf (drums) and Logan Rex (vocals) bring 14 diverse selections to the party.
“Stayed” opens the listen with showcases Rex’s pretty vocals amid hip-hop and reggae ideas in the percussively strong opener, and “One With You” follows with bright horns and contributions from Dubbest, as plenty of grooves enter the more reggae focused landscape.
Packed in the middle is the dreamy and melodic “Dissolve”, which displays no lack of rhythm, while “Spiritual Broadcaster” welcomes The Elovaters to the festive spirit that’s full of intricate guitar and punchy drumming.
Approaching the end, “You’re An Asshole” is actually quite sweet, and even embraces some breezy pop ideas and a bit of soul, and “Bald Tires” exits the listen with acoustic guitar and folky nods amid the beats.
A band since 2012, the founding members Montague and Acuna sure are in great company, and together they’re making some of the most exciting modern reggae that exists today.
Travels well with: Sneezy- Open Doors; Roots Of Creation- Dub Free Or Die Vol. 1