Roots Artefact - Rocking Boat
Roots Artefact returns to NuNorthern Soul with a blissed-out fusion of dub, reggae rhythms and classic downtempo Balearica.
Words by Mark Limb • July 24, 2026
Estonian producer Saimon Kozevnikov has spent years immersed in reggae and sound system culture, both as a DJ and founder of Tallinn-based labels Strictly Dub Records and Seafront International. Following the release of last year's Different Perspective under his Roots Artefact alias, this summer sees him return to Phil Cooper's NuNorthern Soul with the Rocking Boat EP, six tracks of downtempo dub rhythms and laid-back Balearica.
Title track Rocking Boat gently opens the EP with skanking melodies, delayed chords and dubbed-out effects rolling over a laid-back groove and subby bassline, immediately showcasing Saimon's reggae roots. Call to the Wild then heads into classic '90s chill-out territory, where dreamy vocal samples echo into the distance over looping Rhodes chords and keys, while spring reverbs and tape-delayed percussion ensure the dub influence is never far away.
Chanting at the Edge is another head-nodder, taking the EP deeper into Saimon's laid-back soundscapes before Timeless Process subtly picks up the tempo, its gentle guitar groove and sun-drenched melodies harking back to the nostalgic sound of '90s Ibiza.
The bass-heavy groove of Places I've Never Been eases the pace again before the final track, Seafront Blues, brings the EP full circle with a funky fusion of Saimon's influences, as tape delays and picked guitars come together in one final dubbed-out groove.
This is a superb EP from start to finish, fusing blissed-out dub and reggae rhythms with the spirit of classic downtempo Balearica to create the perfect chill-out soundtrack.
The Rocking Boat EP is available now from NuNorthern Soul
