Souljazz Orchestra, The

***"'One Life to Live' is a HOT HOT HOT Afro-beat dancefloor banger which opens right away with a blazing horn section line that leads in to a tight groove, then a flute solo which takes the flute in a direction that I’d never even thought that instrument was capable of. The lyrics are both a celebration of enjoyment as a form of self-care, and making the most of what we have. Words that speak a truth that is so easy to lose sight of. As the track continues with the entire band keeping the irresistible groove just as hot as it came in, we’re treated to a sax solo that begins so low and snakey that it almost sounds like a baritone clarinet before rising to blazing heights.

'Kingdom Come' is… Unlike just about anything I’ve ever heard before. It’s triumphant and regal but not boastful. It’s somehow both clean and a bit dusty, but in the best way. Maybe more like in fantastic shape with a gorgeous patina and shimmery in all the right places. It’s sturdy, driving, slow, steady, and hard. It’s laid back and commanding. And it’s FUNKY. Just peep it, for crying out loud. It’s ILL.

Both of these tracks have been songs that I’ve listened to for days at a time with a tireless desire for another play. The album it comes from, Inner Fire, came out in 2014, and honestly, that’s still the case. These tracks are absolutely timeless."