Ramia – Introducing Ramia

Executive producer Rowen “Spider Ranks” Johnson of UK’s Love Injection Production has brought in some heavyweight talent for this project. Most notably, there’s veteran producer and multi-instrumentalist Clive Hunt, whose experience is felt throughout the album. The musicians include Kirk Bennett on drums, Robbie Lyn on keyboards, Jason “Welsh Bass” Welsh on bass, Mitchum Khan Chin on guitar, and saxophonist O’Shane Love. With Roland McDermott, Nigel Burrell, and Bulby York also involved on the technical side, the foundations are solid. But a strong lineup alone doesn’t guarantee a good album. Thankfully, Ramia brings enough of his own character to make it work.

Raised in Wakefield, Jamaica, Ramia grew up surrounded by roots reggae and spiritual music. His Rastafarian father, a musician himself, introduced him to Peter Tosh and Dennis Brown, with the latter becoming Ramia’s favourite vocalist. Church life added another dimension. Hymns, weekly worship, and the influence of family and neighbours helped shape the faith that now runs through much of his music.

That background comes through clearly on Introducing Ramia. Roots and one drop dominate, with live instrumentation giving the recordings a natural warmth and depth. Original riddims blend with reworked classics, but the album never feels like a collection of recycled ideas.

The opening three tracks immediately show what he’s capable of. Coast To Coast is a beautifully delivered lovers’ tune with a dreamy atmosphere, while Order My Steps shifts the focus to faith with an uplifting tribute to Jah. Then there’s Get Me Hooked, a sweet romantic cut riding a superb remake of the immortal Real Rock riddim. Three different moods, three convincing performances. A very promising start.

The horn-rich If You Believe maintains the quality before Hallelujah turns out to be something quite different from what its title might suggest. Instead of the expected praise tune, Ramia delivers a thoughtful Rasta message about leaving Babylon and returning to Africa. It’s one of those songs that grabs your attention through its lyrics as much as its musical setting. The excellent Brimstone, voiced over a reworked version of Dennis Brown’s To The Foundation riddim, is another standout, combining sharp social commentary with a familiar roots foundation.

Cover Me offers a moment of spiritual reflection, while the lively Jump switches to a more upbeat, dance-friendly mood. Yet even here, Ramia doesn’t completely abandon the serious side of his songwriting. That balance between entertainment and substance is one of the album’s strengths.

The real high points, however, arrive with Mr. Gun Man and Trod On. Both are outstanding cuts that show Ramia at his most convincing, vocally and lyrically. Make A Change follows with a clear anti-violence message, delivered over another reworked classic riddim. It’s a fine example of how a familiar musical backdrop can still carry a fresh and relevant message. Finally, Ruler Of My Destiny brings the album to a satisfying close.

What makes Introducing Ramia particularly rewarding is its consistency. There’s no obvious filler, no unnecessary attempt to chase trends, and no shortage of strong material. The riddims are handled with care, the musicianship is excellent, and Ramia sounds equally comfortable singing about love, faith, or the troubles of everyday life.

For a debut, this is an unusually assured piece of work. Ramia has set the bar high for himself, and it’ll be interesting to hear where he goes from here. One thing’s certain: Introducing Ramia belongs among the strongest reggae releases of 2026.