Hold Me I’m In Love by Roy Braham: A Ska Gem That Still Hits the Sweet Spot
Alright, let’s talk about Hold Me I’m In Love, Roy Braham’s 1963 reggae-ska masterpiece. Released on the Rio label in the UK, this album feels like a warm hug from another era. It’s got that old-school charm, with just enough bounce to keep your toes tapping and your head nodding. Let me tell ya, it’s not perfect—some tracks feel a bit rough around the edges—but that’s kinda what makes it so special.
The title track, “Hold Me,” is an absolute standout. There’s something about the way Braham sings it—it’s sweet but not too sugary, you know? The horns hit hard without stealing the show, and the rhythm section keeps everything tight. You can tell they weren’t overthinking it back then; it’s raw and real. I remember hearing this one late at night, and man, it felt like the song was speaking directly to me. Like, "Yeah, we’ve all been there, buddy." Whether you’re holding someone close or just vibing solo, this tune has got soul for days.
Then there’s “I’m In Love.” This one’s smoother, with a slower groove that sneaks up on you. The guitar skanks lazily in the background while Braham lays down his feelings straight-up. No fancy metaphors, no frills—just pure, unfiltered emotion. Honestly, it reminds me of those summer nights when life feels simple and everything clicks into place. It’s the kind of track that makes you wanna grab a drink (or three) and sit outside watching the stars.
What’s wild about this album is how ahead of its time it feels. Sure, it came out in ’63, but the energy here could hold its own against modern ska acts. Maybe it’s because Braham wasn’t trying to reinvent the wheel—he just wanted to make people move and maybe fall in love a little. And hey, mission accomplished!
If I had to nitpick, some of the production sounds dated compared to today’s standards. But honestly? That’s part of the charm. It’s like finding an old vinyl record at a thrift store—sure, it might have a few scratches, but once you drop the needle, magic happens.
Here’s the kicker: listening to Hold Me I’m In Love made me realize how much music has changed—and how much it hasn’t. Love songs will always be love songs, no matter the decade. So if you’re looking for something that’ll take you back to simpler times, give this one a spin. Just don’t blame me if you start dancing around your living room like nobody’s watching. Trust me, it happens.
