Arrested Development has reunited and recently released a set of 12 new songs. The album is called, "Since The Last Time". Referring to the amount of time since fans had a chance to get new music. This marks the first Vagabond Records & Tapes release; the project is produced by: S*A*M (Gym Class Heroes, Method Man, We the Kings, and Boys Like Girls) and Speech (producer of AD's first album, "3 Years, 5 Months & 2 Days in the life of..." 1992 EMI). There are also four newer members on board with the group: Tasha (Lead vocalist), Za' (Bass guitar), JJ Boogie (electric guitar) & 1 Love (vocals and playback 360). (pics below)
        They join originals: Speech (lead vocalist), Rasa Don (drums), Montsho Eshe (dancer/vocalist) & Baba Oje' (Elder). As a powerful group of 8 members, AD has become a tighter, more cohesive collective. Omar Phillips (OutKast, Mary J. Blige, Dungeon Family, S.O.S. Band) also joins the touring entourage on drums and percussion when the band plays overseas shows.
"Since The Last Time" has a very nostalgic feel, light harmonies with warm Rhoades piano and screaming B-3 organs. Then it takes a turn by "side B" to a more raw and gritty feel with songs like "Inner City" and "I Know I'm Bad". The few sample selections are rare gems from the 60's and 70's - always a delight from this collective. It has been called a "Starbuck's Hip Hop record". We think that's an alright description, because the themes and musicality are a bit more adult. It's refreshing! |
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