Rising star Mortimer, who GRAMMY.com recently hailed as one of the key “artists shaping contemporary reggae,” taps 2023 GRAMMY-winning reggae artist Kabaka Pyramid and the genre’s shining star Lila Iké for a triple threat collaboration on “Bruises.” The thought-provoking track is from Mortimer’s upcoming debut album From Within (Overstand Entertainment/Easy Star Records). The LP will be released September 20, 2024 and its pre-order is available today HERE. The physical pre-order includes a special limited-edition colored vinyl version of the album with three exclusive dubs mixed by Tippy I Grade (of Zion I Kings), along with an exclusive shirt design.
Mortimer says his new song “Bruises” “speaks on the mistreatment we’ve had to endure as Black people especially, but also about the human condition and the emotional distress we all face regardless of race or status. We all bear scars, both seen and unseen; some spoken of and those kept secret.”
The “Bruises” visualizer (directed by Pete Beng) is an unflinching look at the plight of slavery and discrimination against Black people. Mortimer, Kabaka Pyramid & Lila Iké stand shoulder-to-shoulder sharing a collective message of being treated unequally — one which resonates with viewers whether in their own form of trauma or those who can sympathize with people who have been oppressed. Their unfiltered stares into the camera are aligned with the gravity of the harsh reality of the past and present time society is in. Photos and video of civil rights protests and activists such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X are projected behind them to add perspective to the messages in “Bruises.”
“Bruises” is the fifth single revealed from Mortimer’s 14-track anticipated release From Within, produced solely by Jamaican GRAMMY-nominated visionary Winta James with the help from Mortimer on select tracks. The album’s previously released singles offer a diverse sonic palette, from the introspective “Whole Heap” to the sensual dancehall groove of “Slowly,” and the modern roots sounds of “Not A Day Goes By” and “My Child.”
Mortimer’s voice seamlessly transitions from a raspy, smoky alto to a silky falsetto, marked by his signature unhurried delivery. His chilled vibe, akin to the R&B sounds of Maxwell or Sade, is layered with profound, soul-searching lyrics over calm reggae grooves and hypnotic downtempo rhythms.
From Within stands out from most traditional reggae albums, not only because it transcends genre – with heavy R&B inflections and hints of ‘80s pop and reggae disco – but because its refreshing perspectives challenge cultural and social norms. On “Not A Day Goes By” and “Whole Heap” he confronts his own battle with depression, showcasing a vulnerability rarely seen among Rasta Jamaican men. Whether it is discourse on political corruption, intimacy, trauma or mental health, his rebel spirit defies the standards of yesterday and embraces a more enlightened future. Mortimer describes From Within as an exploration of human duality, capturing both the pain and hope in our everyday lives, balancing themes of emotional struggle and joy. His meticulous approach contrasts with the ephemeral nature of today’s music industry, aiming to create a timeless piece.
See full track listing below, also revealed today. The album also boasts a stirring opening track featuring Grammy-winning reggae legend Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, which further solidifies Mortimer’s impact in the music community and respect amongst his musical peers.
Track Listing:
1. In My Time Ft. Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley
2. Bruises Ft. Kabaka Pyramid & Lila Iké *
3. Not A Day Goes By *
4. Rather Be
5. My Child *
6. Whole Heap *
7. Balcony Swing
8. Slowly *
9. Heavy
10. New Roads
11. You And Me
12. Changes
13. My Own Tears
14. Where Would I Be
* Singles Out Now
