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On Connie and the Deep Time, we strive to introduce our listeners to new songs, artists, and even genres. Unfortunately, two hours isn’t nearly long enough for me to go into detail on all of the music that I play on the show. To make up for this transgression, I would like to officially unveil the first volume of Connie’s Deep Cuts. Now, you might ask, “Connie, what are you talking about?”. Well, I’m talking about three albums that have been stuck in my head for the past few weeks. Let’s get into them.
Thundercat – Drunk Genre: Jazz Fusion/ R&B Moods: Funky / Drunk
If you haven’t heard of Thundercat yet, here’s an introduction. He’s a multi-instrumentalist, certified funky dude, and has done collaborations with as far-ranging artists as Kendrick Lamar, Flying Lotus, and even Eric Andre (with whom he made a very entertaining music video with). On Drunk, Thundercat lays down tracks with what seems like a lack of inhibition. Within the span of a few minutes, Thundercat goes from contemplating life on the track “Where I’m Going”, to singing chorus for Wiz Khalifa on “Drink Dat”. Earlier in the album, Thundercat boasts about leaving a girl in the “Friend Zone” before pining about his feelings of ineptitude on “Them Changes”. While the topics of his songs may seem all over the place, its the production that really ties the album together. Harkening back to 70’s funk, Thundercat’s basslines and beats could get even the oldies grooving. On top of that, the album features a plethora of outstanding features, such as Kendrick on “Walk On By” and music legends Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins on “Show You The Way”. While I can’t legally recommend the consumption of alcohol, I can definitely recommend listening to Drunk.
Shag – Me Again Genre: Beat Tape/ Hip-Hop Moods: Chill
I first found Shag through a youtube video featuring his song “Know the Feelin'” overlayed over scenes from the movie Lupin III: The Fuma Conspiracy – and I was immediately hooked. The song features a sample from A Tribe Called Quest‘s “Stressed Out” and a primo beat. Words can’t really do it justice, so here’s the link. After a few weeks of deliberation, I finally gave his debut album a listen. Undoubtedly, Shag shows real finesse in picking out samples. The titular track, “Me Again”, features a sample from The Pharcyde‘s “Passin’ Me By”, another hip-hop classic. Just from these samples alone, it is obvious that Shag has an appreciation for 90’s rap – which makes sense, as the guy is only 24 years old. The majority of the album is relatively relaxed, except for highlight “Ring Out”, which has a distinct chiptunes-inspired production. If you’re beat-hungry or just need something to study to, give Me Again a listen.
Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band – S/T Genre: Big Band/ Disco Moods: Uplifting / Spring
I cannot explain how happy I was to stumble upon this album. I was hooked through an off-chance listening to “Sunshower”, a song that I can easily see myself listening to decades from now. With a chorus that is as much of an ear worm as it is cheerful, its hard not to love. A quick round of research revealed that the song has been sampled by the likes of Ghostface Killah, De La Soul, and A Tribe Called Quest, among others. Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band was a disco band from the late 70’s, who are mostly known for their #1 Dance hit, “Cherchez La Femme/C’est Si Bon”. If you haven’t the faintest idea what I’m talking about, don’t sweat it too much. The point is, this is possibly one of the most feel-good albums of all time. Just listen to “Hard Times” once, with its booming bass drum and soulful hook, and I’m sure you’ll agree. The whole album features a plethora of instruments, utilized in a way that gives each one its own weight. The vocals are so interlaced with the beat that they are basically another instrument in the orchestra that is Dr. Savannah’s Original Savannah Band. If you ever find yourself on a Sunday afternoon with nothing to do, do something productive and give this album a listen – and then a few more.
I hope you liked the first edition of Connie’s Deep Cuts, dear readers. If you haven’t figured out exactly what this is yet, I guess I should explain (but honestly, I think you get the gist). Every few weeks I’ll be putting out these blogs to highlight some albums that I appreciate. Each new edition will feature completely different albums, with fresh moods and quirky tidbits. If you liked what you’ve seen so far, keep in touch and I’ll serve you up some more tasty recommendations. Come meet me in the Deep Time, Connie out.
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