Eight years in the making, a fresh full-length reggae project from Jamaican recording artist D’Yani is set to hit audiences this August, bringing a distinctly unique sonic shift that marks a departure from the artist’s typical creative output. D’Yani first shared details of the upcoming release during an on-site press interaction at the Reggae in the Gardens event, a highlight of this year’s Barbados Reggae Weekend held this past Sunday.
Unlike his previous work, which leaned heavily into dancehall rhythms with occasional R&B influences, the artist emphasized that the new album is rooted entirely in core Caribbean reggae sounds spanning multiple subgenres. From upbeat ska stylings to the laid-back, signature grooves of one-drop reggae, the project carries what D’Yani describes as an open, carefree “Live a Little” energy that sets it apart from his earlier catalogue.
When asked to name a standout personal favorite from his body of work so far, the artist behind the fan-favorite track *Ride It* declined to single out any one release, noting that he holds deep affection for every song that makes up the growing D’Yani discography. Still, he made clear that his upcoming 10-track (unspecified) album carries extra personal weight, calling it a long-gestating project that he has been anticipating for years.
What makes the release particularly notable is its long development timeline: the project has been eight years in the making, with some tracks written even before D’Yani launched his official professional music career. The artist began writing and creating music while he was still a high school student, meaning some of the album’s cuts are older than his formal career as a performing and recording artist. D’Yani also shared a note of gratitude for the ongoing support he has received from fans and industry peers throughout his journey, saying he remains deeply thankful to be able to pursue music as his life’s work, and is eager for audiences to finally hear the years-in-the-making project.