We are more than honoured to call dibs on The Soul Jazz Orchestra's brand new track off the Canadian ensemble's forthcoming album "Under Burning Skies", to be released via Strut Records in all its pink glory (the record will also be released on pink vinyl) on October 6th, later this year. Having gained international acclaim with their scorching blend of Afro, Latin and tropical grooves during the past 15 years, the groundbreaking collective prepares to release what promises to be "one of their finest albums to date" /Strut Records.
"Turbulent times call for strong voices and The Souljazz Orchestra’s new set packs a suitably heavy lyrical punch, with wry observations and an urge for progressive change. Musically, the band continue to push the limits, dusting off ‘80s vintage synthesizers and early drum machines for the first time, bringing lo fi disco, boogie and electro touches to their trademark horn arrangements and earthy analogue sound. The fruits are a-plenty and the group sound at their confident and versatile best from start to finish." /Strut Records
This is definitely one to look forward to. And if the premiere of "Lufunki" is any indicator of what to expect from their newest 10-track effort, then oh are we in for a wild ride: "Lufunki" is a sultry B-Boy banger that Bronx-legend Crazy Legs would tear apart on the tarmac. It's full steam ahead as an Ethio-flavoured chorus pushes the tempo on a bouncing funk-filled beat that would make ol' Nucleus proud. And quite frankly, we have had this on repeat for the past days. "Lufunki" is a surefire floorfiller if we've ever heard one...
The Souljazz Orchestra continue to take the planet by storm, after all, as saxophonist Ray Murray puts it: “Souljazz is more than just a band for us, it’s a way of life.”
Catch them this fall, when they embark on a full European tour, accompanying their album release. You can find a detailed list of dates over here.