Rising star Mortimer, whom 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 on 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 “Bruises,” his new song, “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 some 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, and Lila Iké stand shoulder-to-shoulder, sharing a collective message of being treated unequally—one which resonates with viewers, whether through their own form of trauma or through sympathy for those who have been oppressed. Their unfiltered stares into the camera align with the gravity of the harsh reality of both past and present times. Photos and videos 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.”
Watch the visualizer for "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 assistance 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 also 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 discussing 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 the full track listing below, revealed today. The album also boasts a stirring opening track featuring GRAMMY-winning reggae legend Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley, further solidifying Mortimer’s impact on the music community and his respect among his musical peers.
Mortimer
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Mortimer originally aspired to be a soldier or auto engineer before focusing on music. He has been a key player in the current wave of Jamaican reggae. His upcoming debut album From Within follows his 2019 EP Fight The Fight and its standout single “Lightning”—with over 25 million YouTube views and dubbed "pure love in its heavenliness” by The FADER. His own singles, along with guest features on tracks by Protoje, Keznamdi, Jaz Elise, and Khalia, struck a chord with audiences worldwide and solidified Mortimer's position as a breakout artist in the scene. Mortimer’s recent projects include contributions to Winta’s Gratitude Riddim, Samory I’s Strength, and a David Bowie cover on Easy Star All-Stars’ Ziggy Stardub. He also completed a successful European tour with Samory I and Tippy I Grade this past Spring.
Track Listing:
1. In My Time Ft. Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley
2. Bruises Ft. Kabaka Pyramid & Lila Iké [Watch]
3. Not A Day Goes By * [Watch]
4. Rather Be
5. My Child * [Watch]
6. Whole Heap * [Watch]
7. Balcony Swing
8. Slowly * [Watch]
9. Heavy
10. New Roads
11. You And Me
12. Changes
13. My Own Tears
14. Where Would I Be
* Singles Out Now
