As one of the longest serving new funk acts around The New Mastersounds are old hands at dropping contemporary funky soul with a vintage edge and ‘Shake It!’ continues in that classic NMS vibe. Lamar Williams shares centre stage and his versatile vocals work well. The mellow ballad ‘Too Late To Worry’ is a highlight, ‘Layin Low’ takes us back to that Meters groove they cook up so well while the chase theme style ‘Live Life Free’ is one of the tracks of the album. ‘Permission To Land’ proves that they can still rustle up a distinctive sounding hard funk instrumental while the drama filled ska rhythm of ‘On The Up’ offers another flavour. The sublime crossover ender ‘Lovely daze’ is worth the wait – an infectious slab of breezy soul that demands a repeat play. Top notch as ever from Eddie Roberts and Co.
Track listings:
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01 Shake It (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
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02 Let’s Go Back (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
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03 Love They Deserve (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
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04 Taking Me Down (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
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05 Too Late To Worry (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
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06 Layin’ Low (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
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07 Live Life Free (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
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08 Kings & Queens (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
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09 Permission To Land (feat Lamar Williams & Jeff Franca) by New mastersounds
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10 On The Up (SKA) (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
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11 Lovely Daze (feat Lamar Williams) by New mastersounds
Sharon Stevenson –
A masterful collection of musicians, new songs, and vocals featuring Lamar Williams, Jr. make this a real treat that is uplifting and full of meaning. The New Mastersounds, celebrating their 20 year, are fantastic and this is further evidence of it!