2. Tron, RR Rhythm (feat. Salty, M1, Orlando Octave, Blaxx and Fantom DunDeal)
Yuh want speed? Yuh want speed? These words became the soca catchphrase of the year (see also “Bang Bim”), thanks to Trinidadian radio announcer Salty’s “Gyal Meets Brass F Jam,” a standout track on the RR Rhythm from DJ/artist-turned-producer Dawg E. Slaughter (a/k/a Tron). The rhythm itself proved to be the most unique release of the 2016 Trinidad Carnival season, having begun its life as a project for one of Slaughter’s courses at the University of Trinidad & Tobago. Featuring a traditional brass band and the “iron” sounds synonymous with Trinidadian riddim sections, the track immediately stood out for its use of organic instrumentation. While “Gyal Meets Brass F Jam,” which was also remixed with Fay-Ann Lyons, was perhaps the most widely-heard track, the rhythm deserves to be heard in full.