Mixtape Mondays: Yaadcore x We Are Massiv + Yaadcore x Midnite Premieres

Words by Deejay Theory

Yaadcore—Reggae Aroma, The We Are Massiv Edition

A special-delivery double feature with two world premieres this Monday from one of the leading ambassadors in the conscious reggae movement worldwide, Jamaica’s own Yaadcore. In combination with positively-fueled clothing brand Massiv – who’ve been steadily building in Kingston via pop-up shops with Popcaan and branded concerts with Major Lazer, Skrillex and more – Yaadcore adds another edition to his crucial Reggae Aroma mixtape series, serving up the best new roots music around. Some necessary new and familiar cuts from his extended artist family like Protoje, Chronixx, Mr Williamz and more set the vibes for a nice week ahead.

Midnite I Grade—Ride Tru, Yaadcore Promo Mix (Hosted by Vaughn Benjamin)

Now a quarter-century deep into its mission to bring its distinctive, Virgin Islands-honed sound and perspective to the world, Midnite drop Ride Tru, their third album of 2014 alone, tomorrow. The LP is the latest collaboration between between Vaughn Benjamin and crew  and I-Grade Records, the Christiansted, St. Croix-based label overseen by Laurent “Tippy I” Alfred. Produced by Zion I Kings, the production conglomerate consisting of Tippy, Jah David and Andrew “Moon” Bain, the 13-track LP mixes some souldful R&B vibes into Midnite’s distinctive roots sound. For this mix, Yaadcore blends each of the LP’s tracks together nice and criss, ‘longside by occasional commentary from Vaughn himself. Stream below, pre-order Ride Tru here, and look out for more Vaughn in our Virgin Islands Nice spotlight on V.I. roots and culture this week.

Look out for lots more Yaadcore on LargeUp this week as he takes over our Selector’s Choice column, catch him weekly on Jamaica’s Hot FM Thursday nights, at his Dubwise party every Wednesday in Kingston, and at a stage show near you with Protoje and Indiggnation.