This Brooklyn-based instrumental collective combines slow-burn rhythms with a '70s aesthetic, the latter sound well-known by those already familiar with the label's other releases. The retro, almost groove pushes the predominantly Afro style into American territory. They call it "Afro- ," which neatly sums up the style but doesn't entirely do it justice; only hearing it does. Horns and horn charts dominate, which, because these sessions were recorded live in the studio, exude a spark and swing that are somewhat ominous yet hypnotically contagious. The band cites both and as influences, and the resulting melange is the flash point between those two acts. Unlike much , 's songs are compact, with only two extended past four minutes. Titles such as emphasize the underlying danger inherent in the vibe. Most impressive, though, is the collaborative aspect at work here. None of the solos are extended and the concise track times keep the music sharp and taut, creating a mood and getting out. There's a strong undercurrent, especially in the bass on an innovative rewrite of ' practically begs to be the to a , and much of this would work as backing music to a typical '70s grindhouse flick, which is a high compliment. Its swirling sound crosses genres and eras with effortless precision, joining -roots- with the thumping urban groove of the Western . ~ Hal Horowitz