TheEEs, the innovative musical project led by André Neundorf (composer, producer, arranger, and keyboardist) and Claus Hartisch (composer, producer, and guitarist), brings a unique fusion of tropical grooves, Latin soul, reggae, psych, jazz, and spoken word. Their debut album Temptations of Sound is a mesmerizing collection of musical snapshots, marked by eclectic sounds and collaborations with five different voices. This album blends vintage and contemporary influences, offering listeners a fresh and captivating soundscape.
The journey began in 2020 when TheEEs debuted with a smooth reggae remix of Bahama Soul Club’s hit single “Mango,” setting the stage for a rich blend of genres and styles. Now, with Temptations of Sound, the duo explores even more complex musical territories while collaborating with a diverse range of talented artists.
Opening with “Mother Earth,” featuring the soulful voice of Juliet Ada (of German-Nigerian descent), the album captures a life-affirming energy. Ada’s contribution continues across several tracks, including “Temptation of the Sound” and “Stand Up,” where her vocals blend seamlessly with reggae, trip hop, and jazz influences. The track “If Only” draws inspiration from Rudyard Kipling’s poem If, showcasing Ada’s versatility as she brings a relaxed, soulful touch to the sound.
Temptations of Sound also features the voice of Cuban singer Arema Arega, whose distinctive style guides the hypnotic “Con Sentimiento.” Arema’s collaboration with Regis Molina on flute and congas brings a layer of Cuban authenticity to the mix, while her vocal performance on “Open Up” sends listeners on a journey from trip hop beats to desert guitar and wildlife sounds.
The album continues to captivate with its mix of introspective and evocative themes. The track “Slight & Small,” inspired by Emily Dickinson’s poetry, features Maike Jacobs’ emotive performance, while “Indian Summer,” also inspired by Dickinson, transports listeners with jazz harmonies and relaxed vocals.
One of the standout tracks is “I Mean Soul,” a smooth acid jazz duet between soul veteran Reggie Worthy and Jazzkantine’s Cappuccino. Their soulful collaboration sets the tone for “The Feel,” a laid-back reggae tune, and “True Love,” where Worthy shares a heartfelt love story wrapped in soulful rhythms.
With Temptations of Sound, TheEEs continue to carve their own path in the music industry, offering a sonic experience that transcends genres and eras. This debut LP is a must-listen for those who crave musical innovation and eclectic influences.
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Get ready for a sonic journey like no other with Temptations of Sound, the debut album that challenges musical boundaries and offers a fresh perspective on soul, jazz, and Latin-infused grooves.
