I feel like a teenager again listening to a new album on a Tuesday evening. I am currently streaming the new Slow Knights release, “Cosmos.” The compilation is lead by Scissor Sisters guitarist Del Marquis. It features Bright Light Bright Light‘s Rod Thomas, Chrissie Poland, Bridget Barkan and one of my new favorite voices Xavier Smith. The line, “We use to sing about love, now we sing about money. It’s a shame,” packs a powerful punch in the opening tune as sung by the Brooklyn singer. The lyrics set the tone for the album which is an ode to classic rhythms and strong pop vocals. The following track, “Shame” left me speechless. I think we can all agree that passionate male vocals are hard to find in contemporary pop music. The magic truly transforms your speakers when a few Kraftwerk sounding synths fade in.
If you were feeling disappointed by pop’s failing comebacks, Slow Knights can fill your void (minus the million dollar baby photos and conspiracy theories). “Cosmos” is undeniably a smash from beginning to end hitting on every angle of music. It takes us on a musical ride featuring elements of pop, rock and soul. The r&b tune, “Sweet Harmony” takes you back to a time when Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell once played on radio stations everywhere. The album achieves such a classic sound that I left thinking, “If it’s not broke, repurpose it.” Thank you!