August 19th, 2011 1:00am
I See A Reflection Of Me
Thundercat “Walkin'”
While I don’t necessarily mind Thundercat in instrumental mode, there is just no question that he’s at his best when he’s working in vocal pop mode. “Walkin’,” my favorite track from The Golden Age of the Apocalypse, is an impeccable approximation of ultra-slick 70s mellow funk glamor, with elements that recall the Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, Stevie Wonder and several other greats of the era. It’s a spot-on replica of a distinct yet slippery vibe, but it’s not merely a genre exercise – there’s a genuine emotional spark here. The incredibly sweet and lovey-dovey lyrics may not be especially profound, but it comes out sounding so unguarded. A lot of people can sound direct or heart-on-sleeve, but to do so while seeming so chilled out can take a lot of confidence.
Buy it from Amazon.