published: 23 /
7 /
2011
Label:
Jalapeno Records
Format: CD
Superb politically conscious yet feel good soul on second album from Newcastle-based duo, Smoove and Turrell
Review
'Eccentric Audio' is the second album from soul-hip-hop-jazz-r'n'b masters Smoove and Turrell. The duo consists of John Turrell, who lays down his silky smooth soulful vocals through a barrage of slick production, and combines this with playing from Smoove. Together they create a fantastic vibe.
They follow their much loved second album , 2009’s ‘Antique Soul’ with this more politically and socially aware collection of songs which includes tracks such as ‘Wasted Man’, ‘I Need a Change’ and ‘Money’. The gorgeous vocals from Turrell shine through on these tracks. It is like being preached to in a really polite manner in which you feel, "Well, seeing as you were so darned lovely about it I shall go out right now and put it right. Would you like a cup of tea? Or a hug?
On the flip side to that ‘Eccentric Audio’ is littered with feel good numbers that are more reminiscent of their debut album. Lead single ‘Slow Down’ is a prime example of this with a nod to all classic 60’s soul, and for those younger people reading Ce-Lo Green. My heart, however, lies with ‘In Deep’, which is absolutely funkin' fantastic and has a definite hint of George Clinton in there.
Smoove and Turrell make the sort of music that goes down a storm in the sort of bars and clubs that are cool and nicely decorated but are just a bit too cool for rich uncultured people who go around in designer gear. For me a massive part of Smoove and Turrell’s appeal lies in the honesty and rootsy base of their song writing. Maybe I’m swayed by their hometown, as the pair come straight from that well known hub of soul and jazz music…eerrm Newcastle. The point is that they are the real deal, and easily the best soul to come out of the North East since Jimmy Nail’s ‘Ain’t No Doubt’.
Track Listing:-
1
Higher
2
Slow Down
3
In Deep
4
Wasted Man
5
I Need A Change
6
Money
7
Hard Work
8
Broke
9
It's The Falling In Love
10
Gabriel
11
Let Yourself Go
12
Don't Let It Go To Your Head