Every so often I get introduced to a song that is a throwback to my time in the 90s clubs. The atmosphere was freeing, the vibe was fantastic, and no one cared about selfies. The beats were everlasting, the bass was on point, and we all sang along like no one cared. Music is what drove the emotion and feeling. This is one of those songs that really make me smile. I look forward to the album TRUCK, that will be released in September. If it’s anything like this song, I know I won’t be disappointed. So sit back, or jump up, turn it up and let yourself go.
I don’t know too much about the artist named DENM. I do know two things. I can shake my booty to his single, “Under Pressure,” and the bass line that kicks in at :40 is irresistibly fun and hypnotic. I think the Santa Monica, CA, artist knows what it takes to make you want to lose yourself in the music for the summer. The song reminds of a throwback from the 90s dance scene with its sparse arrangement. It’s beautiful, and not too over the top vocally. It’s a perfect summer jam to listen to whether you’re getting up in the morning or even winding down in the evening with a glass of wine. Trust me folks, this one is a keeper. And like DENM, I feel like I want to dance here forever while listening.
For two reasons: I love the drum track behind it, and the carefree dancing. I also will throw in a special honorary mention of seeing Julian Casablancas from The Strokes eating in a diner. I had to do a double take.
I’ve always said that real soul music – the kind that makes you feel alive deep down in your boots – seems to be missing in today’s realm of music. There just doesn’t seem to be anything out there with a lot of groove and harmony that can make you stand up and take notice for the most part. I say the most part, because then there Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings. They’ve been around forever and a day. And soul music has been their number one force to garner attention. When it doubt, there will always be Sharon Jones. She’s a true vocalist who leaves her blood, sweat, tears, and life on the stage and on the record for you to swallow up and enjoy. Songs about love, death, fear, hardships, and the like that make soul music incomparable – that’s what Sharon displays. Yes it sounds retro in comparison to today’s pop music. Real live instrumentation from The Dap Kings – horns, live drums, harmonies – you just don’t find that around anymore on your local iheart radio station. If you haven’t heard of this wonderful band, please look them up. They are well worth the time and energy. And until you can catch them live, give this cover of Midnight Rider a listen. It’s a keeper. Just like Sharon.
PS – Yes, this is the version heard in a Lincoln car ad. But come on, it’s still worth a listen. Soul sister Number One indeed.
Fitz and the Tantrums have returned after a few years off with their self titled album. You know, I’ve been a fan of theirs forever in a day. They represent that part of my soul that just wants to hear fun and fast pop music – music that will make me work off the junk in my trunk and head bob. And this album is no different. It combines pop, dance, soul, and a little of funk. Don’t get me wrong, introspective music is fine and we all need that kind of music. But there are more times, especially as of late when you think of all the horrible acts of violence that continues to go on around the world, where you just want to lose your mind in great pop music. Nothing more, nothing less. And FATT represent that for me. If you want to just have a good time and chill out from the world around you, I highly suggest you check them out.
I would recommend my favorite standouts from this album, but it’s seriously a solid album from beginning to end. They’re all my favorite. From the opener, “HandClap” to the very last song, “A Place for Us,” the band delivers and gives it their all to entertain you. If you don’t at least tap your foot to one of these tunes, then the only thing that can help you is Jesus. And even Jesus will probably scratch His head going, “Man, Pop was havin’ an off day when he made these stiffs.” The best thing about this album is that each song is straight to the point. No fillers. I hate album fillers. And most of the albums I devour at some point have them, but each song here is pure entertaining fun. PS “Feedback” is awesome, the end.
So don’t take my word for it. If what I say makes you doubt, then listen. I want you to listen. You won’t be disappointed. And you’re welcome. I won’t take credit. Just know that there are some bands out there that believe that pop music isn’t dead and FATT is one of them. And for that, I’m thankful. And so are my ears.
Feed The Ears!! 