The Green – Titles

The Green have finally returned with Titles, their first full-length album since 2021’s Brand New Eyes. And the wait has been worth it. Rather than simply delivering another batch of songs, the Hawaiian reggae band uses the album’s 15 tracks to look back on more than sixteen years together while celebrating the people, culture, and values that have shaped them. Identity, legacy, humility, and community are at the heart of this release.

Fans who’ve followed the band since Love I will feel right at home. The Green haven’t changed the formula that made them stand out in the first place. Their rich four-part harmonies remain front and centre, with each member stepping into the spotlight when the moment calls for it. Soul, R&B, and roots reggae blend together naturally, giving the album its warm and unmistakable sound.

Musically, it’s as tight as ever. Heavy basslines drive the songs forward, crisp one-drop drum patterns keep things moving, and the guitar skanks stay clean and sharp throughout. One moment you’re soaking up easy-going island vibes, the next you’re listening to songs built for festival crowds. Throughout the album, the lyrics stay grounded in gratitude, family, unity, resilience, and the spirit of aloha. It’s uplifting music that leaves you feeling better than when you pressed play.

The album gets off to a strong start with Give A Little, an upbeat love song lifted by bright horn lines and an infectious one-drop groove. It flows nicely into the catchy Halelu before arriving at the album’s emotional centerpiece, Titles. Smooth and reflective, one of the album’s strongest moments looks at the labels we carry through life while reminding us to stay true to ourselves. Long-time fans will also appreciate how cleverly the lyrics reference titles from some of the band’s earlier songs.

The rest of the album balances solo performances with well-chosen collaborations. Johnny Suite, Likkle Jordee, Stan Walker, Maile, and Hawaiian cultural icon Robert Cazimero all make valuable contributions. While several tracks lean towards a polished island pop fusion, there’s still plenty here for reggae fans. Roots lovers will enjoy Roots Girl and Ua Ko, the latter blending traditional Hawaiian vocals with a solid roots reggae riddim. Among the collaborations, Love For You shines with Johnny Suite’s soulful performance, while Way Back Home delivers one of the album’s biggest highlights thanks to its uplifting energy. Don’t overlook Have Mercy, a heartfelt lover’s lament, or the R&B-infused reggae ballad Are You Really Mine, featuring Maile.

With Titles, The Green show exactly why they’ve remained one of Hawaii’s leading reggae bands. The songs are honest, the performances are inspired, and the positive energy never lets up. It’s an album that feels genuine from the opening track to the closing note.