SKYGRASS ADD

Review

Album Review: Skygrass – Walking On Water

10/15/2025

by Munchy

Self-produced by Simon “Skygrass” Bowden, Walking On Water marks the second full-length album from the Jamaican artist, following his 2013 debut IAmKing. Featuring collaborations with Jesse Royal, Mykal Rose, Lutan Fyah, Turbulence, Aspekt Mafia, and Rory Stonelove, the project spans 14 tracks and was released on October 10, 2025.

True to his signature style, Skygrass delivers a powerful mix of rock-infused guitar and witty, storyteller-driven lyrics. Demonstrating his versatility as a multi-instrumentalist, he performs drums, percussion, bass, keyboards, guitar, and even sitar, all polished under the skilled mixing and mastering of Rohan Dwyer.

The album flows with dynamic shifts in tempo, alternating between dreamy, slowed-down passages, enriched with echoing percussion and ethereal synths, and fiery, double-time verses. Skygrass’ guitar work mirrors his versatility: from the rock-driven riffs of Riddim Fyah to the delicate plucking in the seductive This Night. Musically, the record bridges timeless reggae, upbeat dancehall, and an inventive blend of rock and pop elements.

The opening and title track Walking On Water sets a tone of self-belief and empowerment, while the brassy fanfares of Dreadful make a bold statement. Riddim Fyah, already released prior with a music video, merges rock and dancehall seamlessly with guest appearances from Lutan Fyah and Turbulence, aiming to “take away your pain like a strong Panadol”. Skygrass continues his tradition of honoring reggae classics with collaborations: Sensi featuring Mykal Rose revives Black Uhuru’s Sinsemilla, echoing the way he worked with Frankie Paul for Pass The Kush on his debut album.

Tracks like Inna Deh explore dub poetry influences with skillful rhythmic lyric presentation, Dance Ya with Rory Stonelove delivers infectious grooves, and Fireflies charms as a sweet, romantic love song. The album closes with Ras Alchemy, a mystical, spiritual piece that lingers long after the final note.

Lyrically, Skygrass balances conscious themes – positivity, endurance, confidence – with explorations of love, keeping the listener engaged through varied perspectives, wordplay, and vivid metaphors.

Twelve years after IAmKing, Simon Bowden reconnects seamlessly with the qualities that first defined him, offering fans both continuity and fresh creativity.

Walking On Water is a testament to Skygrass’ artistry: confident, versatile, and deeply rooted in the spirit of reggae, yet unafraid to explore new sonic territories.

 

---

Release details