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White Denim, a band from Texas, has an impressive collection of albums that go beyond their individual components. Led by James Petralli, the band’s sound can be described as a punk and rock-infused take on Steely Dan with a psychedelic twist. Their music is precise and skillful but never overly indulgent, and they expertly incorporate time-signature changes into their grooves. This is further enhanced by the addition of Raze Regal, formerly of the Oakland-based psych-pop group, the Once and Future Band, who has toured with White Denim in the past.
This collaborative project between Regal and Petralli was created during the lockdown period when Regal relocated to Austin, TX to regroup after his band’s breakup and the end of his long-term relationship. Surprisingly, the end result is a collection of funky and warm tracks filled with energy, despite the downbeat titles like Dislocation (“no reason to celebrate victory”) and Blood (“smoking myself to sleep”). Through 10 songs, Regal and Petralli combine jazz fusion elements with soulful pop to create catchy and well-crafted tunes, reminiscent of a cross between Tame Impala and Thundercat, but with a unique and edgier sound. Tivoli’s verses are smooth and contemplative, exploring themes of betrayal, while the chorus serves as a powerful guitar-driven moment on the record, complete with anthemic “oh, oh, ohs”.
Source: theguardian.com
