Exploring the Jamaican Mystique: Inna de Yard’s ‘Family Affair’ Delivers Raw and Timeless Reggae Roots.

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Since 2016, the Inna de Yard collective (“In the Garden” in Jamaican) has been on a mission to revisit the essence of raw, authentic reggae music. With their focus on acoustic-driven sounds, they transport listeners to a quasi-phantasmagorical Jamaica, where rivers flow abundantly, the sun forever sits high in the sky, and the vibes are irresistibly positive.

At the forefront of Inna de Yard are seasoned voices such as Winston McAnnuf, Kiddus I, and Cedric Myton, a founding member of The Congos. Their evocative vocals create a vivid sense of nostalgia and harken back to the golden era of reggae. These musical legends paint a vivid picture of a Jamaica that exists within the collective imagination, a place where roots reggae reigns supreme.

Building upon the success of their previous albums, including the critically acclaimed “The Soul of Jamaica” in 2017 and “Inna de Yard” in 2019, the collective now presents their highly anticipated third album, “Family Affair.” This musical endeavor sees a fresh wave of collaborators gracing the garden, alongside the established talents. Joining Winston McAnnuf, Kiddus I, and Cedric Myton are new faces in the reggae scene, including Kush McAnuff, son of Winston and founder of Uprising Roots Band, Steve Newland of Rootz Underground, and the charismatic Derajah.

In addition to the newcomers, the album features revered artists from reggae’s storied past. The duo Rocksteady Keith & Tex, famous for their 1967 hit “Stop That Train”, make a notable appearance, as does the iconic Johnny Osbourne. A standout moment on the album is their brilliantly reimagined cover of Nina Simone‘s 1978 classic, “Baltimore.” With its youthful and vibrant energy, the track breathes new life into the timeless song, firmly establishing it as one of the album’s highlights.

“Family Affair” shines as a radiant record, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary talent that stems from this unique island. Inna de Yard, once again, demonstrates their ability to deliver a truly invigorating and soul-stirring musical experience. The album’s vitality and timeless appeal remind us of the enduring power of reggae music, as it continues to inspire and uplift generations of listeners. Prepare to immerse yourself in the sun-kissed rhythms and captivating melodies of this reggae masterpiece. Let Inna de Yard’s “Family Affair” take you on an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Jamaican music.