The Brand New Heavies
Forward
(Shanachie)

Incorporating house, techno, soul, funk, jazz, hip hop, reggae and yet other genres of music has always been the Brand New Heavies’ recipe for success. Their delectable musicianship and featured vocalists have dazzled the world over and is a large reason why this British band is so adored and so widely respected. Their beautifully tight instrumentalism, big band sound and outstandingly amazing vocals and lyrical appeal still continues to mesmerize on the new album, Forward. Each track remains so rich and optimistic, it is hard not to be seduced and uplifted. Extremely ripe for a sweaty discotheque, “Sunlight” beams so vividly and feels so buoyant. As if that is not enough, it is ignited further by the brilliance of N’Dea Davenport’s vocals. After that, the music lands atop like a dance groove halo. Most songs on the album have an inspiring jam that operates within a dance format enhanced with pieces of highly infectious jazz and funk. “On the One,” begins with a bass grind and an ignitable dance floor calling. “A Little Funk in Your Pocket,” featuring heady vocals by Dawn Joseph has a nice soulful groove that slays within the confines of a sweeping funk rhythm. The Brand New Heavies’ first studio album was released in 1990. During that time and now into the present, each album institutes so many styles of music with such mastery, their success and adoration is rarely matched.