Venice Beach Dub Club (VBDC) has surprised us once again with their second full-length album, VBDC II: Time Marches On

Led by the charismatic Seth Caro, lead singer and songwriter, VBDC has ventured into a creative exploration that transcends the boundaries of traditional reggae. The result? A bold work that reflects the band's personal and artistic evolution. Caro, known for his knack for crafting profound and philosophical lyrics, spent three years meticulously working on each song alongside his longtime collaborators: Gary Big G Larason (lead guitar and producer) and Benji Hamlin (bass). This creative trio has achieved a cohesive record that captures both the lived experience and the artistic freedom that defines VBDC. In Seth Caro's words: "This isn't just an album; it's a reflection of personal growth, difficult realities, and creative freedom. We didn't set out to follow a trend or sound like anyone else. These songs came from taking the time to think, question, and evolve."

That honesty is felt in every track on the album. The lyrics explore universal themes such as identity, the consequences of our decisions, and the silent impact of small, everyday moments. The title track, "Time Marches On," is an introspective work that invites the listener to reflect on how even the most insignificant choices can have lasting repercussions. It is precisely this ability to connect emotionally that makes VBDC stand out in today's music landscape. One of the most exciting aspects of this album is the list of guest artists who lend their unique talents to the project. From Marlon Asher to Keith Murray, Dizzy Dustin (of Ugly Duckling), The Simpkin Project, and Chicano Rock, each collaboration adds a new layer of energy and diversity to the record. "Stay Cool," one of the first singles released, is a modern, carefree take on classic dancehall, perfect for those long drives in the sun or relaxing sunsets. On the other hand, "Find Out" surprises us with the participation of Dizzy Dustin, who brings his vibrant style to the track, fusing underground hip-hop with a smooth rhythm that captivates from the first second. Another gem from the album is "I Love The Herb," a collaboration with Marlon Asher that not only celebrates reggae culture but also the spiritual connection that can arise through music. The music video for this song, along with those previously released for "Stay Cool" and "Find Out," visually complements the album's sonic experience. In this sense, Gary Big G Larason plays a fundamental role as producer. His ability to blend traditional sounds with contemporary elements allows each song to shine on its own while forming part of a cohesive whole. In a world where trends often dictate the direction of mainstream music, VBDC focuses on something different: meaning and authenticity. "Lyrics matter. Essence matters. We want each song to stand alone and convey something authentic," says Caro.

So put on your headphones, press play, and let yourself be carried away by the unique vibes of VBDC. Because, as they remind us, time keeps moving forward, but we can always find moments to stop and enjoy the transformative power of music.