Myron & E with The Soul Investigators/Broadway/Stones Throw Records

From Stones Throw Records, the native CA label that has been known to pump out instant classics on the underground scene (hip hop, funk, soul and turntablism), comes a release that does not disappoint. This project can best be categorized as a new brand of throwback soul music, but I like to describe it as “Boom Bap Doo Wop.” Yes…hard driving beats with thoughtful lyrics, poetically sung, in the tradition of classic soul balladeers. Here, old school sensibilities are skillfully set forth, with modern perspectives. The recording is engineered to perfection, pulling off that vintage studio sound that can be found on old 45's from the late 60's & early 70's.

Recommended: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10

1. Turn Back (4:45)
Slow tempo, with an R&B oldies feel. Socially conscious reflections on the world's miseries, and a desire to change things.


2. On Broadway (4:59)
Uptempo track that begins with a funky drum beat, followed by an array of strings (guitars and violins), along the lines of a Motown formula (tambourines and all). Romantic lyrics muse on the prospect of a life-changing love.

3. If I Gave You My Love (3:23)
This track (along with the next one) initially prompted me to coin the phrase "boom bap doo wop." Hard hitting, mid-tempo jam, with throwback horn arrangements. Classic soul vocals, which pose a very good question: "You say that you need my love. What are you gonna do, if you get it?" Play this!


4. Everyday Love (4:23)
Stellar drum beat opens up this mid-tempo cut, which carries an energetic, yet mellow bounce, reminiscent of the Jackson 5 (yet much more mature). Funky guitar licks throughout, with nice horn arrangements toward the end. Very easy on the ears.


5. I Can't Let You Get Away (4:24)
Another well-engineered track that captures that retro sound. Classic soul ballad, with a slow rolling groove and heartfelt crooning. Superb arrangements of the violins and horns contribute to the feel.

6. Cold Game (3:50)
Uptempo, with more Motownian flavor. Drum break at 1:25 leads into a very nice organ solo.


7. Do It Do It Disco (4:49)
Great uptempo cut, with an extraordinary breakdown at 3:48, where the percussion is simultaneously clean and gritty.


8. Back N Forth(4:29)
Another fantastic drum beat sets the tone for this steady groove, with psychadelic textures and well-placed reverbs. Track fades out with a hard drum groove, accompanied by funky guitar licks. Play this!

9. Going In Circles (6:50)
Rugged groove, smoothed out with violins. Vocal inflections are very Marvin-esque, with "What's Going On"-like lyrics. Long song, but pleasurable listening, from beginning to end. Well worth the time.

10. They Don't Know (4:15)
Gorgeous guitar chords provide the groove for the vocal statement here, with thoughtful lyrics, meant to encourage the underdogs of society. Percussion is provided by soulful finger snaps, until the drums come in at 2:35, followed by wonderful horns. Great conclusion to an excellent album.

Librae Jackson (brother brae)