Former Iya Terra guitarist and vocalist Nick Sefakis has long been one of the strongest and most expressive guitarists in the modern reggae circuit. His passion for roots reggae comes through not only in his live shows but in every note he records. On In Time, he teams up with Southern California band Eureka Sound, whose soulful chord progressions and weighty, syncopated rhythms create a lush foundation for an album overflowing with heart, spirit, and positive vibrations.

The record opens with “Lift Up Your Head,” easing listeners in with flute lines layered over nyabinghi drums before dropping into a rich roots groove. Sefakis delivers a warm and uplifting vocal performance emphasizing love, resilience, spiritual protection, and self-growth. The track becomes even more powerful with a guest verse from Dezarie, whose soulful tone blends seamlessly with Nick’s delivery.

“Walls of Babylon,” featuring The Congos and Cedric Myton, stands as the album’s spiritual and political centerpiece. Sefakis’ higher-pitched vocal approach fits perfectly atop the vintage riddim, channeling protest, justice, and liberation. Myton’s signature falsetto enters with fire—raw, emotive, and deeply rooted in classic roots reggae tradition.

The vibe shifts into unexpected yet brilliant territory with a 70s-inspired funk jam featuring Mike Love. Despite being a stylistic curveball, the track feels completely at home on the album. Nick and Mike’s voices—both typically associated with roots reggae—glide effortlessly through the groove, creating one of the most infectious and dance-worthy songs on the project.

Returning to the familiar warmth of roots reggae, “Praises” rides a steady skank, vibrant horns, and deep bass, while “Guiding Star” shines as a heartfelt reggae love song. Full of gratitude and devotion, the track portrays love as a source of peace and direction, uplifted by lyrics like “Sunshine on a cloudy day” and “You’re my beacon in the dark.” Italian reggae band Mellow Mood joins Sefakis, adding a gorgeous harmonic contrast.

“Voices Unto Jah” continues the spiritual momentum, celebrating unity, faith, and divine connection over a classic riddim enriched with expressive horn arrangements. That spiritual energy gives way to a smooth and soulful rocksteady vibe on “Mary Jane,” a warm, upbeat ode to cannabis personified as “Miss Mary.” The track’s gentle swing and higher-pitched vocal delivery make it instantly charming.

The album closes with “Fire Burning,” featuring Tribal Seeds. Here, Sefakis delivers a more forceful vocal presence, using fire as a metaphor for inner strength and spiritual determination. The horns soar, the riddim hits heavy, and Steven from Tribal Seeds adds a mystical, haunting verse to close the record with impact.

In Time is a rich collaborative achievement, merging roots reggae with touches of jazz, soul, and funk. Sefakis shines on both guitar and vocals, while Eureka Sound members—David Yun, Ryan Berty, Supah Sal, Tyler Last, and Blake Bartz—provide tight, expressive instrumentation supported by a phenomenal horn section. Co-production by David Yun and Supah Sal, along with mastering from Downbeat Mastering, results in a warm, cohesive, and vibrant listening experience.

The album embodies the true essence of roots reggae: love, strength, resilience, growth, and spiritual protection. It is a soulful, meaningful journey from start to finish.

One Love — Todd M. Judd