José James releases his twelfth Album ‘1978’ (his birth year) and it is one of his most soulful to date. It has a very mellow soul sound reminiscent of the year and period it is named after. ‘Let’s Get It’ has very hypnotic groove with nice percussion and a four piece string section. ‘Saturday Night (Need You Know) ‘ subtly has a little more tempo without being an out and out dancer. Xenia Franca co-wrote and sings on the folky soul ‘Place Of Worship’ . ’38th & Chicago’ is possibly the albums highlight with a lilting groove and superb percussion from Pedrito Martinez and social conscious lyrics referring to the George Floyd incident at this crossroads in his home town Minneapolis. Jose’s unique voice is highlighted to good effect throughout the album.
