Dre Island releases ‘Love is in the House’

Singer and musician Dre Island recently released his 11-track album ‘Love is in the House’ (Ineffable Records), which explores a variety of themes including matters of the heart and emotional accountability, while continuing to connect his roots-conscious reggae with modern production.

The album, which is the follow-up to his 2022 effort High Times, features production work from industry heavyweights including CJ The Chemist, iotosh, Dretegs, Soko7 and Kostalkings.

“The album’s title was inspired by the love that I received as child from my household and my community – love that I saw was given to my mom from my dad, and also learning that in order to give love, I first need to make sure I love myself in order to give it effectively,” said Dre Island.

Love is in the House took two years to be completed from recording and production, to finalising the paperwork before release.

“It’s always a joy creating music with people who are like family. They actually knowing who I am, what I like and also understanding the project that needs to be created make it much easier for them to produce and create songs that you hear on the album,” Dre Island said.

“What I enjoyed the most about this album is the fact that it’s educating the kings how to treat a queen, while motivating the queen to honour, respect and value herself in times like these.”

The songs featured on the album include Roses, Situation, Diana (featuring Projexx and Zion De Lion), and Senseless Conversation.

“The songs on the album are all situations that I’ve experienced. The fans are expected to feel love, be loved and give love,” said Dre Island.

Asked how he has grown musically on the project, Dre Island said that for him, growth is everything.

“Especially in times like this where promoting music is more focused on social media. It was more about learning and understanding the new method on how to promote, while applying the knowledge that was gained from past releases,” he said.

Born Andre Johnson, Dre Island hails from the Red Hills Road section of St Andrew. He honed his craft while attending Calabar High School. He made the transition to a recording artiste, releasing his first single Reggae Love in 2013. Nine years ago, his collaboration We Pray featuring dancehall artiste Popcaan topped multiple charts.

In support of Love is in the House, Dre Island will embark on a US tour later this year, making stops in cities including Boston, Massachusetts); Bridgeport and Hartford, Connecticut; Elizabeth, New Jersey; Brooklyn, New York; Providence, Rhode Island; Atlanta, Georgia; and Miami, Florida, with more dates to be added.