Though they haven’t kept a particularly low profile in the time since their last studio, it’s actually been four years since Houston-based trio Khruangbin released 2020’s Mordechai. They’ve kept themselves busy, however, with a myriad of collaborations — including the Texas Sun and Texas Moon EPs they released with Leon Bridges and their turn as curators of the ongoing Late Night Tales compilation series. They’re back now to announce their upcoming album A LA SALA and they do so with the set’s lead single “A Love International.”
Instrumental is the name of the game when it comes to “A Love International.” Rather than clutter things up with words, they speak with their instruments in an astonishing way. A combination of lively bass, longing guitar and funky, driving drums create a hazy groove that sounds like the soundtrack to many a late-summer fling. It’s only made more inviting by the inclusion of echo-y vocals and strings near the track’s end, making it sound reminiscent of the symphonic soul instrumentals of the ’70s.
To capture the song’s languid, romantic vibes on film, Khruangbin turns to director Scott Dungate, who transports us to a beach setting filled with interesting characters. It’s the kids, however, who steal the show. In particular, two youngsters try to sneak a moment to revel in their budding romance. They’re interrupted by a group of kids eager to show off their dance moves and ruin the young couple’s good time. Despite all the distractions, the couple finds enough time to get swept up in the moment and experience a sweet, tender kiss as the setting sun provides an absolutely gorgeous backdrop.
If “A Love International” is any indication, then A LA SALA will most definitely be a vibe. Check out the song’s stream and video right here. Then head below to see the album’s cover art and tracklist before you head to the group’s Bandcamp page to pre-order the set before its April 5th release.
Khruangbin A LA SALA tracklist:
01. Fifteen Fifty-Three
02. May Ninth
03. Ada Jean
04. Farolim de Felgueiras
05. Pon Pón
06. Todavía Viva
07. Juegos y Nubes
08. Hold Me Up (Thank You)
09. Caja de la Sala
10. Three From Two
11. A Love International
12. Les Petits Gris
