Sly Johnson "74"

I'd like to thank my good people at BamaLoveSoul for hipping me to this. Sly Johnson, not to be confused with Syl, is a soul singer & former mc/beatboxer in France most popular hiphop unit Saian Super Crew. The crew disbanded in 07 & Johnson began his new journey. Working with trumptere Erik Truffaz & good friend Nigerian singer Ayo, Sly discovered that it was the end of the road for him & hiphop. Embarking on this soulful affair was his rebirth, eventually naming the album 74 after the year he was born. It's filled with classic touches that take me back to the late 60's, early 70's soul of artist like Al Green to Jackie Wilson. In fact there's even a great cover of an Otis Redding tune. Although the record is drenched in nostalgia, it does have a modern & refreshing sound thanks to a killer roster of musicians & guest including members of Soulive, Cindy Blackman, Rachel Claudio, Ayo, Slum Village & arranger Larry Gold. Listen to one of my favs from the project below & get the full download here.