The ten-piece riddim collective Naya Rockers has released their new benefit album, Higher Education. This album was created to support youth music education at the Alpha School of Music, located in Kingston, Jamaica, a place that has significantly shaped reggae history. Higher Education serves as a fundraiser and features numerous artists, including Stephen Marley, Queen Omega, and Sister Nancy.

Critics have praised the album for its seamless blend of reggae with other genres such as New Orleans R&B, ska, and dub, resulting in a cohesive yet fresh sound. The high-quality production of the album enhances its ability to connect generations while supporting a worthy cause. It represents an international effort, having been recorded across five countries in fifteen studios, with contributions from a global network of musicians and engineers, including Grammy-winning artists.

The Alpha Boys’ School played a crucial role in the emergence of reggae music, particularly when Sister Mary Ignatius Davies began directing the music program there. She taught many students who went on to have influential roles in reggae and ska, including members of The Skatalites, Bob Marley and the Wailers, as well as dancehall star Yellowman.

Clinton Fearon joins the Rockers for the first track, “Come With Us.” It features a light and cheerful classic reggae riddim with sweet horns, a cool groove, skanking guitars, and charming brass accents. Clinton delivers beautifully with his vocals.

Next is the title track, “Higher Education,” featuring Ivan Neville (son of Aaron Neville), which brings a bluesy and jazzy vibe. This song fuses reggae with a New Orleans R&B influence, creating a captivating sound.

The album continues with the powerful anthem “Teach The Youths,” featuring the legendary Sister Nancy, who delivers a strong vocal performance filled with meaningful lyrics. With its ringing percussion and swaying riddim, Sister Nancy's lingering vocals elevate this track to a standout.

Hector Roots Lewis joins the Rockers on “Thanks,” which features a bouncy riddim. Hector brings a soulful and emotional tone to the song, emphasizing the importance of expressing gratitude for the miracle of life and love.

Another standout track featuring the album's biggest name, Stephen Marley, brings a haunting yet uplifting feel to “The Right Path.” With an upbeat and infectious bouncing riddim, Ragga delivers a conscious message in this song about morality, highlighting the album beautifully. He sings, “I say we learn from the past, make our futures last, choose the Earth first.”

Mad Professor adds depth with his track “Dub With Us,” which features lush layers of jarring brass and sonic textures infused with a psychedelic feel. Clinton Fearon provides chilling vocals on this dub track, singing over a thick, rolling bassline.

Mike Love brings a fun, joyous, and uplifting vibe in “Long Way Down.” This ska-infused groove elevates the energy of the album, making it impossible not to get up, dance, and smile! The high energy continues in “The Brotherhood,” where Angelo Moore from Fishbone delivers gentle and charismatic vocals. The mighty Tamlins provide lovely backing harmonies, creating a delightful melody with a tasty, sliding sensation that’s captivating. This track delivers an old-school R&B feel with its retro vibes.

Queen Omega delivers a truly fantastic performance on “Words of Wisdom,” taking us on a soulful and brilliant journey through the song. The track features a sweet reggae riddim, with the bass guiding us throughout. However, it's Queen Omega's dominating vocals that truly take center stage and elevate the track—and potentially the entire album.

Micah Shemaiah contributes his soulful and unique sound to “Same Lessons to Learn,” which carries a powerful message of unity and upliftment. He delivers a beautiful message over a classic yet fresh reggae riddim, creating a blend that feels both timeless and new.

In the closing track, “Thanks Dub,” Mad Professor showcases syncopated percussion, bringing it to the forefront. This is accompanied by bright brass and shimmering guitar riffs. This instrumental dub version of “Thanks” serves as the perfect wind-down for the album and the journey that Naya Rockers have crafted for us.

With flawless production, Higher Education is a success on every level. It fulfills its mission of raising funds for an important school, showcases the collaborative nature of the album, and features beautiful songs. The assembly of such immense talent has resulted in a complete triumph. This isn’t just another reggae album; it is a masterpiece of music, message, and collaboration. I encourage you to check out this album, not only to support the Alpha Boys’ School but also to enjoy a timeless collection of beautiful music that demonstrates reggae’s power as a force for good.

One Love – Todd M. Judd