Review: Skillibeng’s New Gears and Remix Featuring Vybz Kartel

When it comes to modern dancehall, few names spark conversation as quickly as Skillibeng. Known for his trap-infused riddims and unapologetic experimentation, the Jamaican artist has built a reputation for dropping singles that dominate the streets, clubs, and digital charts. His 2025 release New Gears is no exception. With its raw energy and infectious vibe, the track has reaffirmed Skillibeng’s status as a frontrunner in the new generation of dancehall. And just when fans thought it couldn’t get better, the remix—featuring none other than Vybz Kartel—drove the excitement to another level.

The Original “New Gears”

Released in early 2025, New Gears instantly caught the attention of fans and critics alike. Described by one listener as an “exciting dancehall reaction,” the single felt like a statement: Skillibeng was still very much active, and his music wasn’t confined to Jamaica—it was reaching an international audience.

The song thrives on its high energy and unapologetic dancehall bravado. Its fast-paced delivery and heavy-hitting riddim make it perfect for the dance floor, while Skillibeng’s sharp cadence drives the track forward with authority. For many fans, this was the kind of track they had been waiting for—proof that Skillibeng could still balance experimentation with the authentic sound that made him famous.

The Remix with Vybz Kartel

Just when the original was hitting its stride, the remix dropped on September 26, 2025—and the internet lit up. Featuring a new verse from Skillibeng and a commanding feature from Vybz Kartel, the remix gave New Gears new life.

Kartel’s presence on any track is an event, but paired with Skillibeng’s futuristic dancehall style, the collaboration created a perfect generational bridge. Fans took to TikTok, Instagram, and music forums to celebrate the release, calling it “a link-up we didn’t know we needed but can’t stop playing.” The chemistry between the two artists is undeniable—Skillibeng delivering with speed and precision, Kartel anchoring the remix with his signature authority.

Skillibeng’s Broader Place in Dancehall

What’s most interesting about New Gears is how it fits into Skillibeng’s evolving catalog. His discography has been met with mixed but often positive reviews: his singles—like Crocodile Teeth and Brik Pan Brik—are widely celebrated, while his full-length projects have sometimes been criticized for lacking cohesion. His 2021 Crocodile Teeth LP drew mixed reactions, with some critics calling it “uninspired” despite its star-studded features.

Still, what can’t be denied is his influence. Skillibeng has become one of the faces of trap-infused dancehall, pushing the genre’s boundaries by blending traditional riddims with heavy 808s and international flair. His collaborations with artists like Tyla and Gunna (Jump) have earned him placements on Billboard’s U.S. Afrobeats and Hot R&B charts—proof of his global reach.

Final Verdict

Both versions of New Gears highlight what makes Skillibeng unique: his ability to deliver raw, high-energy singles that capture the pulse of modern dancehall. The original solidified his place in 2025’s music landscape, and the remix with Vybz Kartel elevated it into a cultural moment.

For an artist whose albums sometimes draw mixed reviews, Skillibeng continues to prove that when it comes to singles, he knows exactly how to capture both the streets and the streaming charts.

Rating: Original – ★★★★☆ | Remix – ★★★★½

Skillibeng remains one of dancehall’s most intriguing figures—flawed at times, but always exciting. New Gears shows he’s still shifting lanes, and right now, he’s in full speed.

By Dante Jackson, Entertainment Editor