It’s not every day that a reggae release takes its inspiration from classical music. In fact, the only similar project that comes to mind is a reworking of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, recorded back in 1968 by London outfit The Cats, formerly known as The Hustlin’ Kind.

Now, almost six decades later, Heartical puts out Ras Beethoven, a reggae take on Ludwig van Beethoven’s Für Elise. Backed by Basque Dub Foundation and guided by Inyaki Yarritu, the riddim forms the foundation for nine vocal cuts on Heartical Sound’s latest one-riddim set.

Things get underway with Too Many Soldiers, and it’s a powerful start. Cornell Campbell sounds as sweet and distinctive as ever, using his trademark falsetto to deliver a serious call for peace. It’s one of those songs that speaks directly to the times we’re living in. Carlton Livingston keeps the conscious vibes flowing with the excellent Robbery, before Macka B puts his own spin on the subject. On The Robbery Of The Century, he recounts last year’s incredible theft of eight French Crown Jewels from the Louvre Museum in Paris. As always, the UK lyricist’s storytelling style is unique and instantly recognizable.

The next two tracks come from artists who are sadly no longer with us. Clive Hylton, better known as Colour Red or Jah Clive, appears with Shadrach, Meshach And Abednego, a recording from 2013 inspired by Chapter 3 of the Book of Daniel. He is followed by Papa Kojak, who passed away in 2024, delivering conscious and uplifting lyrics on Chant Dem Down Chant. Both artists passed away in 2024, and their posthumous contributions serve as welcome reminders of two artists whose contributions to reggae deserve greater recognition.

Joseph Cotton, the St Ann-born veteran better known to many as Jah Walton, presents the solid Show Time. These days he’s based in France, but his delivery remains as authentic as ever. Then comes Owen Knibbs, whose career revival continues to gather momentum. His heartfelt Danger Zone is a touching lover’s lament that reveals more with every listen.

Spanish sibling duo Rootsamala lift spirits with Roots Hold On, while French artist Straika D adds his contribution with Dans la Stéréo. The album closes with Darren Jamtone’s dubbed-out Ras Beethoven In Dub and the horn-led instrumental Classical Roots, both of which showcase the strength of the riddim on its own.

Whether you’re drawn by the unusual classical inspiration or the strong line-up of artists, this is a project worth checking out. It’s available now on all major streaming and download services, with a vinyl edition released as four separate 7-inch singles.