Entering its third decade, Dreadzone was originally born out of the post-rave scene. Dread Times is the band's eighth studio album. Their old skool dread sound comes bubbling to the surface on this album, whilst digging deeper into their dub and reggae roots whilst still keeping the beats fresh and the textures electronic...

Dread Times brings Dreadzone kicking and screaming into the present day. Their old skool vibe works well in a modern setting, with none of the tracks seeming out of place or time. There's a nice mix of styles, from paying homage to their roots to the present day and beyond.

The album contains 12 tracks (1 hr, 04 min, 11 sec) with highlights too many to single out. But 'Rootsman' and 'Area Code' stand out as memorable. The end of 'Music Army' reminded me of The Flight of the Conchord's 'Frodo (Don't Wear the Ring)' The Lord of the Rings spoof song.

For those that have been following Dreadzone through the decades, this doesn't disappoint.

9

Nick Smithson