Dive deeper into Caribbean music and culture at Sokah2Soca — your go-to source for Soca, Calypso, and Carnival coverage. First published on Sokah2Soca, now streaming live via Island Vybe Radio.
I am about to be beaten up online for my take on this "Late Night Riddim" release, but, as I usually do, I say what I feel when I first listen. However, "before mouth open and story jump out," before I bare my soul, here’s the buzz online about the new production by Sekon Sta, although this isn’t his first time creating vibes.
The vibe online for Sekon Sta’s newly released Late Night Riddim is pure fire—a sultry, sensual celebration of nighttime energy wrapped in Caribbean rhythm. The project is being embraced as a bold evolution for Sekon Sta, who’s now stepping confidently into the producer’s chair, and fans are loving the results.
I am going to cut through the hype and speak candidly. Soca, like many genres, thrives on energy and innovation, and when a riddim feels too safe or underproduced, it can struggle to stand out in a crowded release cycle. This rhythm feels too simple... like a bedroom-produced beat. Good things can happen in a bedroom, but this one feels a bit too simple.
Let's try and unpack my thoughts. As I said above, the production feels too simple. So, what does that mean? The Late Night Riddim leans into a minimalistic vibe. While some fans appreciate the stripped-down sensuality, others—like myself—might find it lacking the layered complexity or punch that defines more memorable Soca hits.
Fans of these artists are unlikely to favor this album review. I am convinced this review will ruffle some feathers; feelings will be frayed and hurt here. Even seasoned artists can sound tentative when stepping into a new sonic space. It’s possible that the mellow tone of the riddim didn’t give them enough room to showcase their full vocal dynamism. I don't mean to imply they sound amateurish, but damn, I've heard better from these artists.
So here is my main concern. Soca is fast-moving, especially with Carnival seasons and regional releases constantly refreshing the soundscape. Without a breakout hit or viral moment, riddims like this can easily get overshadowed and fade away and be totally forgotten as a wave of new music floods the music scene.
Fans and artists can counter my review/thinking here for sure. Some listeners are embracing the album as a “vibe piece” rather than a chart-chaser—something to set the mood rather than dominate the dance floor. But your perspective highlights a real tension in Soca: the balance between vibe and vitality.
Please listen to all the songs before commenting. If you think I was unfair to the producer or the artists, call me out! Time for some honesty now: if you were the program director on a radio station, or if you were or are a DJ, would you prioritize these songs? Just asking for a friend!
YouTube Music Notes:
Get ready for a sensual soca experience! The highly anticipated Late Night Riddim, produced by Sekon Sta, blends smooth, seductive melodies with infectious Caribbean energy, delivering a soundtrack for unforgettable moments.
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Production Notes/Music Credits:
Album Title: Late Night Riddim
Artists/Performed by: Nessa Preppy, Kris Kennedy, Preedy & Sekon Sta
Produced by: Sekon Sta
Engineered (Mixed & Mastered by: Kingston @Sheppard Pro Studios)
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Soca ?
Songs:
Nessa Preppy—Front Way
Written by: Nesta “Sekon Sta” Boxill & Vanessa “Nessa Preppy” John
Kris Kennedy—Sweetest Whine
Written by: Nesta “Sekon Sta” Boxill & Kris Kennedy
Preedy—Late Night Love
Written by Nesta “Sekon Sta” Boxill & Akeem Chance
Sekon Sta—Mother Good Daughter
Written by: Nesta “Sekon Sta” Boxill & Akeem Chance
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