For Grammy-nominated musician, producer and songwriter Kirk “Kirkledove” Bennett, music has always been more than rhythm and melody. It has been a source of healing, reflection and expression. Those emotions take centre stage on his latest album, Analog Heart Digital Mind, which was released on June 4.

While Bennett has built a prominent career as one of Jamaica’s most respected session drummers, the project sees him stepping further into the spotlight as a recording artiste, blending reggae, dub and soulful influences to tell a deeply personal story.

The inspiration for the album came during one of the most difficult periods of his life following the passing of his grandmother, who had long been his confidante.

“The inspiration behind this album came from a time in my life when I was in a vulnerable situation, or at least I felt that way. When my grandma passed away, she was that person I could share anything with and she was no longer around. I became very emotional towards creating, which put me in a different perspective and process mood towards my music. Luckily, I had some friends who supported me through the process and journey,” Bennett said. 

The result is an album that Bennett describes as a “soulful vibes dub reggae fusion,” created with the hope of uplifting listeners despite its emotional origins.

“My main objective is to make the people in this world feel joyful and upbeat towards my music,” he said.

Although Analog Heart Digital Mind is his latest release, Bennett is no stranger to recording projects, having released six or seven albums throughout his career. However, he says this one stands apart from his previous work.

“My other albums are straight dub music. This album is more about being on a musical journey, with more grooves, more of my vocals and showing more emotions,” he explained.

The album also features collaborations with longtime friends and musical associates Anthony Red Rose, Dean Fraser, Jah Man and Mr Vegas.

“These are my close friends who I’ve been working with for years, so it was ordained to be that way to finish the puzzle,” Bennett said.

Known affectionately throughout the music industry as “Drummy”, Bennett has spent decades behind the scenes helping to shape the sound of reggae and dancehall. Born in Trelawny and raised in Montego Bay, his musical journey began at Muschett Comprehensive High School before he refined his craft with the Trelawny Marching Band and later on the North Coast hotel circuit and aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Line.

His life changed when reggae icon Beres Hammond spotted his extraordinary talent and invited him to join the renowned Harmony House band. Bennett went on to serve as the band’s principal drummer for more than 17 years, performing on songs including I Feel Good, Come Down Father and Who’s That Sound.

Today, Bennett is widely regarded as one of Jamaica’s premier session drummers. His résumé includes work with Beres Hammond, Marcia Griffiths, Toots Hibbert, Busy Signal, Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica, Maxi Priest, Elephant Man, Julian Marley and Jesse Royal, among many others. He also served as principal drummer for the legendary Roots Radics band and was ranked among the top 10 reggae drummers of all time in a LargeUp.com poll.

Despite those achievements, Bennett remains grounded.

“My biggest accomplishment is life. Just to wake up every day and make music is an achievement. I have to give thanks to the Most High for what I have accomplished and for what is coming next for me,” he said.

Since the album’s release, Bennett said the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with encouraging feedback coming through social media, YouTube, radio stations and disc jockeys.

“I’ve been getting a lot of good feedback and comments from this album. Big up to the DJs and radio personnel who are giving me the strength,” he said.

As for what’s next, Bennett says fans can expect plenty more music.

“I’m always working on different projects in the studio and playing music all over the world. I like to surprise my fans with music and whatever I’m doing through my label,” he added.