11. Bulby York, Epic & Ting (VP Records)
You won’t often find debut albums stacked with as many high-profile featured artists as Epic & Ting, but Colin “Bulby” York isn’t your average debut artist. The fact that the LP includes appearances from so many is evidence of the respect and status York enjoys within the music industry in Jamaica and abroad. Production-wise, he is responsible for the Hot Wax riddim, one of the most recognizable dancehall beats of the ‘90s, while his engineering credits include American rock band No Doubt’s multi-platinum album Rock Steady, among countless reggae classics. His varied résumé is reflected in a release which draws upon Jamaican and international influences to produce a hybrid sound. “Anything Goes” caters to the dancehall crowd, pairing Beres Hammond’s smooth vocals with Bounty Killer’s impactful delivery, whilst the dub-tinged “Held Down” with Lutan Fyah, and the EDM infused “Moola” featuring Cherine Anderson, demonstrate Bulby’s diversity as a producer. — Gibbo