Words by Jesse Serwer
Earlier this year, Inner Circle teamed with Chronixx for a 2015 re-make of “Tenement Yard,” their classic 1975 single with singer Jacob Miller. The track, sub-titled “News Carryin Dread,” features a sample of Killer Miller’s original staccato vocals from the track. The “Bad Boys of Reggae” have taken the re-up a step further, releasing a full selection of tracks on the riddim, from Jesse Royal, Bugle, Tanya Stephens and Daniel Bambaata Marley, among others.
Hip-hop’s new favorite dancehall deejay Assassin also makes a contribution of particular note. On “What’s Da Story,” Agent Sasco asks for clarity regarding recent announcements pertaining to marijuana laws in Jamaica and the USA. “Hey what’s the story, is it for real now?” the “Idiot Ting” deejay asks. “Did they really legalize the weed now? Is it still offense to plant a tree now?” All good questions, and ones we’re seeking answers on, too.
Listen to “What’s the Story” below, stream all of the new tracks pon the Tenement Yard riddim at Inner Circle’s Soundcloud, and catch Assassin live at LargeUp’s fourth annual Winter Music Massive this Sunday in Miami, in his first US appearance since collaborating with Kendrick Lamar for “The Blacker The Berry.” (Flyer below)
