I don’t know about you but it’s been one hell of a week and I can honestly say, thank God it’s Friday 🙂 Here are a few recent releases that you can enjoy this holiday weekend.
Leon Bridges – “Bad Bad News”
Leon Bridges swept everyone off their feet with his throwback music and style of dress when he burst onto the scene a few years ago. Taking cues from the likes of Sam Cooke and other soul-singers from the 60s, his debut Coming Home was released to both commercial success and critical acclaim. After a few years and much anticipation our man is back! “Bad Bad News” is one of two new singles from his forthcoming sophomore release Good Things. In true Leon Bridges fashion, he draws inspiration from an era and style of music that pre-dates his 27 years of life. However, “Bad Bad News” has an infectious swing reminiscent of a Duke Ellington classic, or your favorite D’Angelo song that makes you move. Which is a bit unexpected from what we’ve become accustom to from the young crooner. Check out the video for “Bad Bad News” and you’ll find Bridges’ dance moves are just as unexpected.
Meshell Ndegeocello – “Waterfalls”
A little unknown fact: our very own Jason Bentley signed Meshell Ndegeocello to her first record deal when he was A&R for Madonna’s record label Maverick. Since then, the world renowned bassist, composer, and songwriter has been heard on the KCRW airwaves (which spans for over 25 years now). Ndegeocello continues to impress audiences with her latest release Ventriloquism. The album is all covers of classic songs, hence it’s name. However, Ndegeocello doesn’t simply cover standards; in several instances she rearranges them. A few that really standout are George Clinton’s “Atomic Dog”, Ralph Tresvant’s “Sensitivity” and Al B. Sure’s “Nite and Day”. Both the rearrangements and song choices make Ventriloquism one of the best albums of 2018 so far. One such example of this surprising duality is her cover of T.L.C.’s “Waterfalls”.
The Pendletons – “Funk Forever”
If you are a fan of boogie, funk, and modern soul – this is the EP for you! E Da Boss (of Myron & E) and producer Trailer Limon, otherwise known as The Pendletons, have been releasing boogie and funk laced music for several years now. Their music is reminiscent of yesteryear while still maintaining a modern vibe. Funk Forever contains compositions lush with: drum programming that will make you bounce; jazz horns that remind you of James Brown; and bass heavy grooves suited for low riders. Check out the title track from Funk Forever EP, which is out today, and I dare you not to move.
(Leon Bridges carousel photo: Odek1974 Header photo c/o: Cal Quinn)