Sunday Afternoon
Color Red, 2021
8/10
The Seattle instrumental outfit True Loves are back with a sophomore album, and they’ve brought plenty of power to the collaborative effort where Jason Cressey, Greg Kramer, Gordon Brown, Skerik, Jimmy James, Bryant Moore, David McGraw and Iván Galvez work together synergistically to produce 10 timeless tunes.
“S.O.S.” starts the listen with a festive spirit as bright brass, frisky drumming and charming guitar meet somewhere between rock, jazz and funk at a block party, and “Objects In Mirror”, the fourth single from the album, follows with an infectious energy rooted in funk, where trombones and saxophones interact in playful, soulful ways.
Moving along, “Robin’s Revenge” displays James’ proficient guitar playing amid McGraw’s swift drumming as the strategic horns add much to the flowing climate, while “Yard Byrds” trims the pace back with much beauty as rhythm and groove are manipulated precisely. “Sunday Afternoon”, the best of the best, then illustrates dynamic chemistry among the band where each member brings their inimitable skill to the formula.
Close to the end, “That’s Good” enters a dreamy atmosphere amid much soul, and “Lavender” exits the listen with equal parts rock, jazz, funk and soul as the band mesh some of the best ideas from the last few decades.
A record that sounds like it could have been made in any decade since the ‘60s, True Loves know how to have a good time, and Sunday Afternoon could certainly soundtrack any party, or even just a lazy weekend when you want to absorb something nostalgic.
Travels well with: Polyrhythmics- Fondue Party; Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal- Natural Born Hustler