Butcher Brown's Genre-Defying Journey in 'Letters From The Atlantic'

Experience the unique sound of Butcher Brown as they redefine genres with their latest album, 'Letters From The Atlantic'.

An Unforgettable Musical Voyage

Genres are once again effortlessly obliterated in the music of the impossible-to-classify Richmond, VA-based Butcher Brown. Their fifth album in as many years, Letters From the Atlantic (Concord), serves as a deeply felt sonic tour of influences spanning the Atlantic Ocean.

The journey begins at sunrise on Virginia Beach with seagulls chirping over a caffeinated drum-and-bass beat. The track "Unwind" transports listeners to a club in New York’s Alphabet City, enhanced by a superlative flute melody. Meanwhile, Victoria Victoria's vocals evoke the languid sweet nothings reminiscent of Sade on “Hold You.” It’s a delightful blend that keeps you hooked and wanting more.

A Fusion of Influences

“Something New About You” puts a futuristic spin on the yacht rock classic “Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree. With guest vocalist Neal Francis’ falsetto chorus sharp enough to crack open a tall, cool Budweiser in Michael McDonald’s honor, it proves that Butcher Brown knows how to pay homage while innovating.

The head-nodding R&B grooves come alive in the sitcom theme-adjacent “Dinorah Dinorah” and the Yaya Bey-featuring “I Remember.” In a sweeter nod to their loyal fans, the track “Backline” seems to be a musical sibling to “Frontline” from Butcher Brown’s 2020 LP #KingButch, sharing the latter’s fluid guitar figure but cleverly swapping out its deft horn solos for waves of smiley electric piano.

A Dance Music Escape

The synth-washed, downtempo house delight "Ibiza" is an undeniably bold attempt to get booked in the titular Spanish dance music mecca. Its infectious rhythm and beats make it an instant dance floor favorite. Adding to the allure, trumpeter Nicholas Payton’s righteous notes on “Montrose Forest” conjure the chillest of funk vibes. This track is where the band truly shines, showcasing their range and ability to create music that resonates deeply with listeners.

As the album reaches its end, it’s only during the last minute of the closer “Infant Eyes” that Butcher Brown finally tip their jazz hands. This time, they pay tribute to the late Wayne Shorter, incorporating a shot of silky sax, a spritz of upright bass, and a chaser of closing-time vibes with a piano noodle that leaves you wanting another round.

Conclusion: A Must-Listen for All Music Lovers

Butcher Brown's Letters From The Atlantic is not just an album; it’s a multi-genre expedition that captivates and enchants at every turn. Their ability to blend styles and influences is simply unmatched, making it a must-listen for any true music enthusiast.

FAQs

• What genres does Butcher Brown explore in their music? They seamlessly blend elements from jazz, R&B, funk, and electronic music, offering a unique sound that defies categorization.
• Who are the guest artists featured on *Letters From The Atlantic*? The album features guest artists like Victoria Victoria and Yaya Bey, adding diverse vocal textures to the sound.
• What is the standout track from the album? Many fans highlight "Unwind" as a standout, with its captivating melodies and vibrant rhythm.
• How does the album connect with Butcher Brown's previous work? Tracks like “Backline” echo themes and musical elements from their earlier work, particularly *#KingButch*, creating a sense of continuity in their discography.
• Where can I listen to *Letters From The Atlantic*? The album is available on all major streaming platforms, making it easy to enjoy at your convenience.

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