"This Is Serious!" Huge grooves & beats (and quality interludes) melt together... as only they can blossom in New York City. Heavy bass lines prance majestically in an easy trotting rhythm -- then add a man on the mic, who talks more than he sings; minimalist, but still right in the pocket and extremely soulful. Turntable scratches with a distant trumpet added for color provide a great intro to "FOR YOU", the title track and lead single of the duo Michael Griot and Eric Brown -- who have created one of the most interesting discs of Black Music with the help of Teddy Crockett. With the knock-out power of the smash singles "Please U" and "For You", the dynamic duo prove that they also have magical lyrical instincts,
as well as knowing a little about modern dance grooves (swinging Drum&Bass/House feel of "Pleasure", and "No More", which includes great string and horn arrangements). They routinely quote soul, funk and jazz influences (e.g. "Better" -- a concrete reminder that Prince was and is the undefeated master of ultra-reduced, effective beats -- plus some Miles Davis or Curtis Mayfield influences for those who are into that). Additionally, there are fine contributions from some illustrious guests: Britain's Omar (singing an arrangement of Sly Stone's "Family Affair"), and the inspired trumpeter Russell Gunn. To sum it up: a great record at the top of the SonicSoul Playlist!

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