I-Rise – Like A Tree EP – Press Release

December 2, 2024

Press Release: I-Rise inspire with their new EP, Like A Tree.

2022-founded, German-based band I-Rise have just delivered their latest EP: a stunning offering that sees the sounds of Jamaica combine with those of Europe. However, the group’s roots go far further back than just 2022.

Like A Tree EP, released via Merchant Records on 7 December 2024 and available on a 12” release, sweeps across six tracks in a musical event that is both thought-provoking and soothing:

It focuses on traditional Roots sounds, but with the flare and use of arrangement of European artists gone before them. So, I-Rise have created a project that sounds as good as it feels.

But the group’s history shows just why their sound is so well-formed and of such a high quality.

I-Rise said:

“In 2012, musicians came together in the foothills of the Black Forest, Germany, to make music in a relaxed atmosphere and to share their love of Jamaican music. Over time, this spawned the I-Rise, which has been playing in its current line-up since 2022.

Together, they have developed their very own sound, which is based on classic, handmade Roots Reggae, but consciously and authentically integrates the individual influences of each musician”.

All I-Rise’s members have been involved in the Reggae and Dub scene for over 20 years. Iman had previous releases with his other project Iman and DubTub as well as with various other producers.

Junior Jew, Niko Youngheart, Lil Ze, and Tamrin are working in the Sound System scene, and Youngheart is also a producer known for his productions and remixes with the likes of Sentinel:

The result is a blend that I-Rise describes as Black Forest Roots:

“Catchy basslines paired with single notes are laid over lush drums and playful percussion. Together, the keys and the riddim-guitar prepare a carpet for sax-interjections and vocals that tell of everyday, spiritual and social themes. True to the motto that the message can be found in the music and the music in the message, the result is danceable groove, a unique musical mood that finds its way directly into the hearts of the listeners and invites them to dance, listen, ponder or simply enjoy”.

This shows across Like A Tree’s six tracks.

The EP’s opening, Don’t Rush, delivers exactly that sentiment – as winding, lazy Roots sounds mix with Rock-like guitars. Don’t Rush is also being released on a 7” vinyl with an equally incredible dub version on the flip side.

Up In The Hills is a far more upbeat affair with clear Dub influences along with nods to Dancehall, while Why Should I feels very Bob Marley.

Mr Stone is an evocative, brooding affair – punctuated by some deft work on the keys and percussion.

Meet The World is sprightly and fresh – albeit in a minor key – giving Like A Tree something softer and more delicate, but with a searing vocal.

The EP closes with Getting Hotter – an interesting take on Old Skool Roots, where the focus is a simple chord progressions and Roots musical devices, coupled with some engaging and thought-provoking vocals and lyrics.

Narratively, I-Rise have produced an EP that delivers clear spiritual and political messages across Like A Tree’s six tracks – from praising Jah to denouncing Babylon’s proponents via warning us that the final battle with the system is coming – all while reminding us to maintain the faith and seek the positive in everything we do.

Overall, Like A Tree is a superb release from I-Rise. It showcases the band’s indomitable talents as individuals but also collectively, while providing the listener with both musical and lyrical succour in these difficult times.

Like A Tree EP full track listing:
1. Don’t Rush
2. Up In The Hills
3. Why Should I
4. Mr Stone
5. Meet The World
6. Getting Hotter

Like A Tree EP credits:
Vocals and backing vocals: Iman; Simon, additional vocals – 2,6; Junior Jew – 2
Drums and Percussion: Niko Youngheart, Lil Zé
Additional percussion: Ras Andi – 2,6
Bass: Tamrin – 1,3,4,5; Ras Andi – 2,6
Piano: Samson Benji
Rhythm Guitar: Iman
Lead Guitar: Junior Jew