released: july 31st, 2026

genre: dub / reggae

from: georgetown, guyana / uk

label: melodies international

a few thoughts: back in 1979, legendary dub and reggae producer founded ariwa sounds, the longest-serving and one of the most influential independently owned reggae studios and record labels in the uk. since then, the label has produced some of the most iconic and influential dub and reggae tracks and records to exist on wax. melodies international presents ariwa sounds is a celebration of his rich sound, with 15 tracks of bass-heavy, rumbling dub. the compilation features legendary vocalists from the ariwa sounds roster, including johnny clarke, sandra cross, kofi, u roy, sister nancy, queen omega, aisha, garnett cross, abel miller, and horace andy, amongst others. the detailed, textured sound that we’ve come to love from mad professor is on full display here, with dynamic, punchy moments on tracks like “non violence dub” with joe ariwa and horace andy, or “6 million dub” featuring mafia & fluxy. colourful, joyful and sensual moments appear on the album including the soulful “silly wasn’t i” featuring davina stone, “everytime i see my baby”, featuring abel miller, ariwa posse and joe ariwa. the soulful, guitar-led melodies of some of the lovers rock tracks are stunning and beautiful throughout, and make for a perfect summertime tracks that capture the feel-good energy of mad professor’s music. “losing time for love” is another incredible track, with an infectious guitar melody, soothing vocals an undeniable groove. another highlight is “live the life you love” featuring sister nancy. it’s a dynamic and groovy cut with incredible vocals. “rocking and popping” featuring emphatic vocals from queen omega is another infectious moment on the album, while “liberated woman’ is a 10-minute closer, with an incredible, piano and guitar-led groove and incredible vocals from ranking ann. melodies international presents ariwa sounds is a lovely, feel-good compilation celebrating the very best of ariwa’s sonic legacy.