They understand that it means that the music you make has soul, that it sounds like it's been recorded by people, and you perform and sing it as if your life depended on getting the groove just right. This isn't the smooth as silk vocals or over produced music that seeps out of the radio these days, it's rough, raw, and pulsing with energy. Even better is the fact that they change things up constantly so that from one song to another the music is different. Everything from driving hard funk to old British music hall style songs shows up, and each are played with same amount of sparkle and élan. Not only do they do they play the music well but they play it with style, and that makes it all the more entertaining and exciting.
I've never been very keen for what's called white soul as it's usually insipid crap. The Bureau, like some other bands and musicians from the British Isles, prove to be the exception to that rule. Instead of trying to imitate the way people like James Brown or Sly Stone used to play funk and soul, they take the music and infuse it with the same energy that used to drive punk. By doing this they have created a sound unique to themselves, that not only makes for great listening, but is bound to get your feet moving and your hips swaying. If you take only one risk on an unknown quality this year when it comes to music make it The Bureau's new album ...and another thing - you won't be disappointed. Remember for now you can only pick up a copy via their web-site, so scoot on over there and put your order in now - you won't regret it.
Article comments
1 - Sam Patterson
Thanks for your insightful review of the Bureau's forthcoming album. It sounds spectacular. Can't wait to hear it. I'll be ordering my copy from the band's official site later this week. The Bureau are back on track! Dexys euphoria! I'm in heaven.