Natural Born Hustler
Color Red, 2021
8/10
Listen to Natural Born Hustler
Although they’re from Lincoln, Nebraska, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal resided much further south, as their mature and adventurous brand of soul infused funk and blues tips it hat that direction on this vintage yet very modern album.
The 10 track album leads with the psychedelic backdrop of the bluesy “Hustler”, where Blake DeForest’s bright trumpet makes an impression alongside Hoyer’s soulful, rugged singing, and “Whisper” follows with a calmer approach as Benjie Kushner’s spirited guitar suits the expressive pipes. as subdued drumming from Harrison Eldorado anchors the intimacy.
At the halfway point, the funky “Sunday Lies” benefits greatly from Mike Keeling’s lively bass lines amid the busy, soul rocker, while “The Night” roars with a retro energy as thumping drums and Hoyer’s sturdy vocal acrobatics have you hanging on every second. “Take My Chances”, an especially strong tune, then finds plenty of grooves to cultivate as vintage soul meets R&B where Luke Annis makes an appearance with trombone.
The final 2 tracks are just as great as the rest of the album, and include the festive and dynamic “Gimme That Lovin’”, and “Ring The Bells”, where rhythm and gospel meet with much authenticity as Hoyer impresses us with his piano work, too.
Certainly indebted to the ‘60s and ‘70s, Hoyer and company are nothing if not diverse, and these carefully constructed and flawlessly executed tunes will make a fan out of anyone willing to give Natural Born Hustler a spin.
Travels well with: The Reverend Shawn Amos & The Brotherhood- Blue Sky; Monophonics- Mirrors