NEW MUSIC ALERT: Elegant Animals

I've always had this impression of male R&B singers as the smooth guy(s) that know what to say to get what they want, get out of sticky situations, or evoke an emotion from a unassuming woman who has bent up sexual and emotional frustration.

The R&B sound has dwindled over the years and has been replaced by singers that want to rap, rappers that want to sing, and electro/techno hits (see Usher and Chris Brown's most recent hit singles).

Elegant Animal's inaugural EP, Spectrum Nocturnal, feels like a time machine. You get the impression that lead singer & producer, Jules Kazys, channeled his inner Prince while Brandon Shockley on the guitar envisioned himself on the " Chitlin Circuit" performing with a piece of hay in his mouth during a 40's or 50's southern tour. The hardest thing for a singer/group to acquire is a sound. These two gentlemen definitely have that: smooth grooves, provocative vocals, and eloquent guitar playing high light this inaugural EP. Not bad for a couple of friends that hang out and compose songs in their spare time.

Recorded in an unassuming studio in Northern Liberties, this EP's sound is truly elegant.
If love was an animal, these two upstarts found a way to tame her. Take a look at the track listing below, & enjoy the free download as you are reminded that you really can find love when you least expect it.

Link: http://elegantanimals.bandcamp.com/

1. Intro/Soft Secrets: A perfect introduction. The listener gets the impression that Jules is literally talking the panties (boy shorts are my personal favorite) off his female counterpart as he soothes her over a simple beat that is aided by the guitar riffs of Shockley. This song gives the listener an idea of what they are getting themselves into: a chill time with honest lyrics.

2. Syndicate: Are you still waiting around for the love of your life? The lyrics of this song will give you the answer. The 30 second loop at the end will give you plenty of time to decide if you like your answer.

3. Feed: The darkest song on the album sonically has a drum kick that any rapper would die for. This track gives listeners a glimpse of the potential this band has. The sudden change of tempo sets this track apart. The only question I have is, “Where is the visual for this masterpiece?"

4. January 66: The intro to this song sounds like a piano student lesson: in a good way. Less is more on this song and the subtle beat allows Jules' voice to stand out. Just like a tense moment in your favorite movie, this song tugs at your heart just as Shockley toys with the guitar.

5. By My Recollection: This song showcases the skills of the bands guitar player. This will be much appreciated when it is performed live. It will serve as background music to concertgoers as they try to find someone to go home with or as they drunk text their late night companion.

6. Spectrum Nocturnal: The EP's title track finds lead singer Jules' pleading for affection. He starts off perfectly asking for his mate to "act like you care." The way the song is delivered you get the impression that he already knows that she doesn't.

7. Outro/My Sleep Soul: The perfect ending: an instrumental that leaves you asking why is this peaceful journey already over.