Upbeat rhythms, catchy horn lines and dulcet vocals reminiscent of the girl groups of the '60s are just a few of the key factors that make Melbourne, Australia's latest export Saskwatch Bounce-Worthy. The nine-piece band, led by vocalist Nkechi Anele, have had a stellar year that has included supporting slots for Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, Maceo Parker and the legendary Earth, Wind and Fire and now they are set to release their debut album, Leave It All Behind. After a few listens of the album via the band's SoundCloud page it's a certainty that you won't want to leave this collective of cheerful soul messengers' musical offerings behind.
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Saskwatch bring soul music that warms the soul, with tracks that are made for lifting your spirit and will no doubt leave you dancing exuberantly with the kind of joy that only those genre-defining punchy horns and sweet guitar riffs can bring. The lead single from the album, "Your Love," is the perfect example of this. The track is akin to drinking an ice cold fizzy drink on a summer's day while playing out on the lawn under the sprinklers. OK, so I'm stretching my mind way back to childhood, but surely you remember how absolutely wonderful that felt? Well, that is exactly how this track will make you feel. While the music video accompanying it doesn't enhance those sentiments, it certainly portrays the same carefree feelings with samba dancers, Bollywood performers and b-boys among the many dancers simply letting loose in a feel-good dance-a-thon of sorts. And what could be better than a dance-a-thon?
Leave It All Behind is simply an extension of the track "Your Love." It's exploding with the same sticky sweet soul that leaves you feeling elated and with a goofy smile plastered on your face. Even when Saskwatch are talking about how bad love can be, as on title track "Leave It All Behind" or "Second Best," it all still sounds optimistic and cheerful. Throw in some instrumentals, including a cover of the pure pop that is Kylie Minogue and Robbie Williams' "Kids" and you discover an album, and a band, that isn't afraid to revel in the uplifting joy of soul music. Listen to Leave It All Behind in its entirety and watch "Your Love" to hear and see for yourself.
