Lucy Fitzgerald 
IRIEspect’s new EP “Lost In Time” is a vibrant fusion of reggae, dub, Latin, hip hop, and dancehall that hits all the right notes. The Long Island-based seven-piece delivers five tracks that each bring their own flavor, with a focus on rhythm, movement, and feel-good energy. This isn’t a band experimenting with sounds. It’s a band that owns them. “Want Me Too,” featuring Ras Ajai, kicks things off with a breezy island vibe. The steel pan touches, and the laid-back groove makes it feel like a sun-soaked afternoon with a cold drink in hand. Ras Ajai, signed to Sean Paul’s Dutty Rock Records, adds smooth vocals that ride perfectly over the rhythm.
Then “Nuh Leave Mi Alone” kicks in. This one hits harder. Skygrass, the Jamaican artist with a huge online following, brings a bold edge with his delivery. The beat punches with dancehall energy built for late-night speakers and packed rooms. This is one of those tracks you can already picture live. “Lost” shifts the mood and stands out as the deepest track on the EP. Horns, rootsy guitar, and a slow-burning build make it feel rich and composed. You can hear the band’s experience and chemistry in the way this one flows. It’s layered, but never forced.
With “Me Gustas Tu”, IRIEspect takes a Manu Chao classic and spins it into something new. Bilingual verses, Latin reggae rhythms, and a melodica solo give this one international flavor without losing its groove. It’s catchy without being predictable and brings a different kind of energy to the project. The closer, “Dangerous” featuring Duvbear (Shalom Miller, son of Matisyahu), brings the punchiest edge. Gritty, raw, and full of punk-reggae fire, this track gives the EP a bold ending. It’s the kind of tune that hits harder live, with volume and sweat.
Personally, I loved how each track had its own space while still holding together as one tight project. That “Lost” track stuck with me long after it ended. It’s clear IRIEspect knows who they are, and they sound like they’re having a blast doing it. Make sure you follow IRIEspect and add “Lost In Time” to your playlist. These guys are touring hard, building a real following, and putting out music that deserves a spot in your rotation. Whether you’re into roots reggae, hip hop blends, or Latin rhythm, there’s something here that’ll move you.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
