Birthday
Self-Released, 2023
9/10
A fusion outfit that embraces pop, funk, Latin and jazz ideas, Florencia & The Feeling have turned plenty of ears their way since their inception in 2021, thanks to no lack of grooves and harmonies present.
After the warm keys and crisp drums of the elegant “Intro”, “Meant To Be” follows with warm guitars and expressive singing in the melodic and crunchy climate that’s immediately memorable.
The title track arrives in the middle and benefits from much rhythm, soulful backing vocals and lush bouts of animated pop-rock, while “You” finds an intimate place to ride with strings thanks to Diego Nuñez in the dreamy delivery.
Approaching the end, “What Can I Do?” brings plenty of breezy, cultured ideas to the percussively strong and dance floor ready landscape, and “Outro” exits with precise bass plucking, as quick drums and glowing keys make for a hazy closer.
The band are spearheaded by Florencia Rusiñol’s diverse and flowing voice, and Austin Herron (drums, background vocals), Isaac Ratliff (keys, background vocals), Nick Castro (bass, background vocals) and Noah Wise’s (lead guitar, background vocals) proficient contributions.
A truly original and worldly listen, there’s much to admire and enjoy across Birthday.
Travels well with: Lake Street Dive- Free Yourself Up; Andrew Scotchie & The River Rats- Everyone Everywhere