Mixtape Mondays: Tom Laroc, DJ Sensilover, Bramma Shanti

Words by Kali Madden

As the weather begins to get nicer, the music gets even sweeter. In a lockdown, one week can start to feel like a month – so here’s some great mixtapes to get you through! Some hardworking selectors are putting in the work to keep us lifted during quarantine, and Mixtape Mondays is here to share the love. Check out this week’s songs of survival for some higher grounding here:

Tom Laroc and Selector Steve – Higher Ground: Old School Reggae Songs of Survival

Inspired by current events, veteran DJ Tom Laroc unites with turntablist Selector Steve for Higher Ground: Old School Reggae Songs of Survival, a five-volume roots reggae series. The tapes are a rockers meets old-school street dance vibe for the win. Each mix gives us a soothing, slow-bounce groove with tunes such as “Ghost Town” by The Specials, Dennis Brown’s “Armageddon,” and Delroy Wilson’s “Run Run,” an array of songs loved by reggae connoisseurs all over the globe. The newly released Vol. 4 begins with John Holt’s “Up Park Camp” and takes us on a higher grounding of slow reggae reminiscing with songs such as Luciano’s “Never Forget Your Roots.” Listen to Higher Ground: Old School Reggae Songs of Survival Vol. 4 here:

*For Higher Ground: Old School Reggae Songs of Survival Vol. 1-3 visit Tom Laroc’s Mixcloud here, and stay tuned for Vol. 5 coming soon to a future edition of Mixtape Mondays.

DJ Sensilover – 420 Dancehall Reggae Mixtape 2020

Ganja ambassador DJ Sensilover delivers another special with his latest mix, 420 Dancehall Reggae Mixtape 2020. Up to the time with today’s most current reggae/dancehall marijuana music, the mix features big tunes from Vybz Kartel, Popcaan, Buju Banton, Lila Ike, Mortimer, Sean Paul and Teejay – a wonderful pairing for both fans of the artistes, and the flower. Mixed with a fun, high-energy vibe, the tape is perfect for a late-night smoke session at home… or even over Zoom. You pick the strain! Blaze 420 Dancehall Reggae Mixtape 2020 here:

Bramma Shanti – Classic Reggae Mixtape Vol.1

Speaking of sweet songs of survival, Classic Reggae Mixtape Vol.1 gives us the shield we need to weather the storm. Presented by Sebat Records and mixed by Bramma Shanti, the mix highlights classic reggae tunes such as “Right Time” by Mighty Diamonds, Rod Taylor’s “Words of Parables,” mixed with Max Romeo’s “One Step Forward,” and more songs from the greats like Freddie McGregor, Jacob Miller and Errol Dunkley. Listen to Classic Reggae Mixtape Vol.1 here:

Sincere wishes, deepest sympathies and lifted thoughts to everyone experiencing hardship during this time. May the music bless, and keep you well.