The Hempolics - Serious / Serious Version

Reggae Roast is pushing at the frontline of new UK reggae and this track is a prime example of the talent and vitality of the next generation of British roots. ‘Serious’ is the debut single from The Hempolics, who formed in London in early 2009 inspired by the urge to make real music in a perfectly balanced, organic, yet distinctly bionic style. The Hempolics crew includes artists such as Maxi Jazz, Paolo Nutini, Harry Collier, Dandelion and One Eskimo. Lead vocalist Dandelion takes the reigns on ‘Serious’ with an extremely catchy hook and fantastic melody line. Over the past three years Dandelion has cut tunes with some of the biggest names in reggae and dubstep, most noteably the startling ‘CCTV’ 12” with LV on Hyperdub. The Hempolics have also just been confirmed as official support for Faithless on their 2010 UK tour, so expect to hear a lot more from them over the next few months. The Hempolics were founded by Grippa Laybourne, who experiments with ideas heavily influenced by the purest roots of reggae, hip hop, soul and electronica. The band produce a contemporary and diverse palett of original textures, with forward thinking songs and unique vocal performances. The Hempolics, like many other artists on the Reggae Roast roster, are enjoying the current boom in roots music appreciation. Much of this recent popularity can be linked to the success of dubstep, which has in turn highlighted a huge amount of talent in the more traditional sounds heard on this record. ‘Serious’ pays homage to the roots of The Hempolics sound, with a distinctly vintage, rocksteady feel throughout. Dandelion’s conscious lyrics are matched with a pitch perfect vocal melody, which has already made it a hit among DJs and sound systems across London. ‘Serious’ has achieved multiple plays from David Rodigan on Kiss 100 fm and is destined to become a modern classic, with great crossover appeal as we start to approach the summer months. Fans of labels like Jahtari, Scotch Bonnet, Scrub A Dub and Police In Helicopter … step up lively.

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