Stephen Bruner (aka Thundercat) is a modern day bass virtuoso. In 2011 he released a solo album titled The Golden Age of Apocalypse , which received rave reviews from music media for it’s unique cosmic soul atmosphere and production from well known experimental producer and Brainfeeder label founder, Flying Lotus . Now Thundercat has just released his second solo album, Apocalypse (déjà vu anyone?). This twelve track album showcases his knack for combining traits of jazz, funk, soul, electronica, rock and pop styles. He creates a sound that isn’t confused, but explores the endless possibilities in the sounds of the past, now and beyond.
Bruner’s rhythmic vocals on ‘ Tenfold ‘, combined with synth hectic bass, sets this futuristic audio landscape in an appropriate introductory track to the album. The perviously released single ‘ Heartbreaks + Setbacks ‘ is a major standout, with the real charm hiding in the layering on this one. There’s the silky smooth keys against a prominent bass part, close male vocal harmonies, and the faint descending squeaky synth pattern over the body of the song, all adding to the groove put out by the bass. Just to top it all off, the tail end of the track is completely stripped to reveal a smooth jazz progression of the keys then guitar.
It’s an eclectic listen at times, but the contrast is a welcome attribute overall. There are moments of relaxation with ‘ Evangelon ‘, then you’re treated to the dark and ominous glitchy beats of outer space on the instrumental track ’ The Life Aquatic ‘. Before you know it you’re under the hypnotic spell of ‘ Lotus and the Jondy ‘. Thundercat’s vocal riff is super trancy and draws you into a state of awe for the appreciation of the extended drum break, which draws on jazz improvisation traditions.
‘ Oh Sheit It’s X ‘ goes along with this years big disco trend. The tune rolls along with a bubbling intricate funky bass. It’s impossible not to want to move to this one. Note his ‘in song fuck-up’ which still sounds amazing.
Finishing off the album is ‘ A Message for Austin/Praise the Lord/Enter the Void ‘, which has an almost Star Wars-like grand theatrical scored cadence, which surprisingly works. Finally sweet chimes and a cowbell ring above and below the fleeting guitars in a meditative epilogue that peters away to nothingness.
As a part of Melbourne International Jazz Festival , Thundercat and his band are coming to Melbourne’s Forum Theatre this Friday (7/6). It’s sure to be a swell evening of local and international talent with support from local future-soul dominators, Hiatus Kaiyote .
Apocalypse is avalible now on the Brainfeeder website . A vinyl edition is planned for release on June 24th.
WORDS BY Leah Phillips
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