I had originally found out about the Montreal-based band in 2017 around the release of their debut album Uncommon Good. Listening to “Closer” for the first time on my Spotify Discover Weekly was an experience that I wish I could relive again. In the three years since I have been casually following their work, listening to their discography, and waiting in anticipation for their sophomore album. Eddie, released last Friday, was even better than expected. With a more mature sound in comparison to their debut, Busty and the Bass have created a name for themselves as the genre-defying band everyone should have an eye on.
“Out Of Love” featuring Macy Gray is bewitching. The opening track completely took my by surprise, I remember audibly saying “ooooh” from the first note. Like the beginning half of the album, this song is soft with a sensual feel. It isn’t until we get to “Little Later” where the songs become more upbeat with a big-band sound. This song is the perfect transition to the second half as it mixes the energy of the latter songs and the relaxing nature of the former.
“Figure It Out” should be in a movie soundtrack. It would be the perfect addition to the last scene of a coming-of-age movie where the main character overcomes their struggle and is optimistic of the future. The freestyle at the bridge will invigorate you. It has quickly become one of my favorites on the album.
“Summer” is on another level. It’s a slow burn to the “bigger than life” conclusion. The tracks composition, and the passion felt in the singer’s raspy voice are ethereal. I didn’t believe that “Summer” could get more perfect than this until I listened to the choir version that they posted late March of this year.
The final track, “Cold Night” is the perfect ending to the album. This song showcases their talents in a more subtle way. It gives the listener the ability to soak in the soulful vocals, hip hop influence, signature brass, and neo-soul sound their audience has come to know and love. It’s hard for artists to follow-up their first albums. With expectations so high, it’s easy for them to crumble under the pressure. Busty and the Bass have not only withstood the odds, but they’ve also outdone themselves. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for this group. And I hope more of their songs show up in other’s discover weekly.
Busty and the Bass
