(February 24, 2019) Since being formed almost two decades ago, Reel People has mastered a fluid movin’ and groovin’ sound that blends disco, funk and all points in between into an indescribable musical science. Under the auspices of founder Oil Lazarus, this U.K. collective surrounded by a top-line list of producers and featured vocalists still accomplishes to keep the soulfully injected beats and voices as fresh as ever. From its debut in 2003, Second Guess to the more diverse Seven Ways to Wonder and occasional remix compilations, Reel People remains devoted to handling dance floor business and raising the game of urban electro genius.
(February 24, 2019) Since being formed almost two decades ago, Reel People has mastered a fluid movin’ and groovin’ sound that blends disco, funk and all points in between into an indescribable musical science. Under the auspices of founder Oil Lazarus, this U.K. collective surrounded by a top-line list of producers and featured vocalists still accomplishes to keep the soulfully injected beats and voices as fresh as ever. From its debut in 2003, Second Guess to the more diverse Seven Ways to Wonder and occasional remix compilations, Reel People remains devoted to handling dance floor business and raising the game of urban electro genius.
To reflect its musical purpose, Reel People’s recently released and long-awaited CD, Retroflection, celebrates R&B dance blasts from the pasts with a few minimal twists. The latest First Listen focus turns to Yarbrough and Peoples’ signature deep funk jam, “Don’t Stop the Music,” this time with Angie Stone on the lead microphone. While the melody is recognizable, Stone breathes a different vocal texture to the steady electro and live rhythms, yet never losing the soulful punch of Alisa Peoples’ original performance. In retrospect, “Don’t Stop the Music” has been revisited on several occasions, but under the Reel People’s spot-on balancing act of integrity and musical savvy along with Stone’s vocal presence, this stands out as more than just another cover rendition. Check it out.
By Peggy Oliver