Release date: 09/20/2024
Tracks
01. In My Time feat. Damian Marley
02. Bruises feat. Kabaka Pyramid & Lila Iké
03. Not A Day Goes By
04. Rather Be
05. My Child
06. Whole Heap
07. Balcony Swing
08. Slowly
09. Heavy
10. New Roads
11. You And Me
12. Changes
13. My Own Tears
14. Where Would I Be
Album Review: Mortimer’s debut album From Within is a soulful journey that transcends traditional reggae while maintaining the genre’s rich essence. Produced by Winta James with Mortimer also contributing to the production, this 14-track album is both introspective and expansive, offering fresh perspectives on social, emotional, and political themes. From collaborations with reggae heavyweights like Damian Marley on “In My Time” and Kabaka Pyramid and Lila Iké on “Bruises,” Mortimer dives deep into the traumatic histories and present-day struggles of Black communities. These songs, along with others, defy the standard norms of reggae by integrating influences of R&B, ‘80s pop, and reggae disco, creating a sound that is both rooted and innovative.
One of the standout aspects of From Within is Mortimer’s willingness to showcase vulnerability—a rare trait among Rasta men in Jamaican music. Tracks like “Not A Day Goes By” and “Whole Heap” confront issues of mental health, particularly his own battles with depression, marking a significant shift in the emotional discourse within reggae. The album is rich with personal reflections, as seen in “My Child,” a message of reassurance and love to both his children and his inner self. Meanwhile, “Balcony Swing” and “You And Me” are tender love ballads that stray from the typical reggae formula, offering a window into Mortimer’s life and relationships. The album feels like a conversation between the artist and his audience, full of raw emotion, joy, and pain.
From Within is not just an album, but a profound statement on the human condition. Whether it’s the stripped-back vulnerability of “My Own Tears” or the faith-driven anthem “Where Would I Be,” Mortimer’s lyrics and melodies are crafted with precision, as if each note and word were made of glass. The album closes with dub versions of some of the standout tracks, reminding us that the depth of this project goes beyond the surface. In a world of fleeting music trends, Mortimer has gifted us a timeless body of work—one that will resonate deeply for years to come.