BLACK PUMAS – ARTIST SPOTLIGHT & ALBUM REVIEW

A major component of contemporary music is our deep rooted love of both soul and r&b. So mush so that many current artists like Brooklyn’s Third Story try to capitalize on a resurgence of these two timeless genres. But few do it with as much panache and determination as the Austin, Texas based Black Pumas.

With their 2019 Grammy nominated debut release, Black Pumas, the creative duo have constructed a homage to the soul greats like Wilson Picket and Marvin Gaye. Their songs definitely pay respect to these quintessential backbones of the 60’s and 70’s. Yet Black Pumas have upgraded this cherished period of American music and in doing so have cultivated a new standard.

Black Pumas consists of guitarist/producer Adrian Quesada and singer/songwriter Eric Burton. Quesada was a member of latin-funk band Grupo Fantasma who had previously won a 2010 Grammy. Burton, a California transplant, had busked his way to Austin in 2015. They joined forces in 2018 after connecting through a mutual friend. The pair honed their craft in both the studio and on stage and eventually penned a deal with ATO records.

It’s Burton’s powerful vocals and Quesada’s primal production that creates the richness and earthiness of Black Pumas. According to Stephen Erlewine’s review in Pithchfork, ” Burton may command attention with his sweet plaintive voice, but Quesada’s densely woven tapestries are the key to Black Pumas“. Their songwriting and production mesh perfectly to create an amazing soundscape of aural beauty.

The album opens with “Black Moon Rising” and the wondrous ride begins. The song is full of passionate yearning but it’s Burton’s organically smooth voice that carries the day. Also Quesada’s production radiates a tantalizing romantic tone . The song’s touch easily brings back memories of the immortal soul crooners of yesteryear. Next up is their huge hit, “Colors”. Black Pumas accentuates Burton’s sultry voice with a beautiful laid back orchestration which elevates the tune. Due to Quesada”s wonderful use of texture, the song even though sounding familiar takes on a life of its own.

 

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“Know You Better”  is soul infused with a killer back beat. Again Burton’s urgent vocals soar. “Fire”, the foremost uptempo song on the L.P. has one seductively dancing to the impassioned beat.  The tune is retrospective of Sam and Dave with lusty horns straight out of Stax . The production is vintage and lively with Quesada’s shrill guitar riffs a strange plus. On “OCT 33” we experience the the true talent of Burton’s vocals. The ballad reminiscent of Otis Redding is silky with swirling strings and a rousing choral finish.  Quesada’s wistful guitar solidifies the heartfelt track.

“Stay Gold” flies with unbridled bravado. The pure intensity and fervor of Burton’s voice transforms this song. Quesada’s twangy psychedelic guitar fits perfectly with the tune’s ambiance. “Old Man” flies with an outstanding guitar track and a catchy drum beat. “Confines” with its snaking 60’s keyboards and seductive vocals delivers.

On the next two songs, Black Pumas attack with probably their two strongest songs. On the rock tinged “Touch The Sky” Burton’s plaintive voice easily conveys a tender swagger. Quesada’s guitar solo in junction with the fiery horns blasts through and the track finishes with a flourish. By far the strongest song is left for last. “Sweet Conversations” with it folkish quality and delicate guitar elevates the entire album. The song previously written by Burton as a demo, demonstrates the Black Pumas‘ desire to return to simpler times.

With their debut album, Black Pumas have simultaneously regenerated and honored our musical heritage. They have transfixed soul with a little funk and psychedelia meanwhile preserving the true essence of the genre. Black Pumas  are truly an undeniable treasure. In other words, Black Pumas is required listening.

BLACK PUMAS

• Eric Burton———————-Vocals/Guitar
• Adrian Quesada—————–Guitar/Production

Black Pumas is Black Pumas first album

• Black Pumas———————2019 ATO Records

NEXT POST————————–REIGNWOLF

 

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