If I could transport myself back to any decade, the late 1950s into the 1960s is one time period that I would have loved to experience for the music, the style, and the call for peace and love. Toronto, ON based group and movement Amai Kuda et Les Bois capture a glimpse back in time with their latest single and video release of “Love Song.” Straight off their new album, “EmUrgency!” this single explores the true nature of untimely love and the internal battle of taking risks while impressing upon how love doesn’t fit under just one label.
From the first note you’ll hear the shift from past to present, as the sound quality changes from a record needle to stereo. “Love Song” immediately submerses you into a tune that combines tempo a la Frankie Valli with the smooth soul of Gladys Knight, and perhaps just a touch of subtle doo-wop for good measure. I just love how Amai takes “oldie-but-goodie” rhythms and brings them right into the present while tying together how struggles in love transcend the concept of time. She sings of the struggle we all have experienced at least once along the way: “So come on! And write me a love song / Or at least a little letter / ‘Cause I know you got feelings / More than you want to let on!” Possible heartache aside, the upbeat tempo of “Love Song” keeps the impression that we all want love to work out in the end.
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Quantum Vox Music with co-producer Jimmy Kiddo, the album promises a mix of alt-rock, hip hop, and downtempo, with a touch of Trinidadian heritage all into one. The perfectly paired video was filmed at the Sankofa Maroon Village site, and directed and produced by Alex McFarland of The Trenches Media, with PA, Rob Licandro. Uniquely, Amai Kuda et Les Bois released the album on vinyl only recently, with the full digital release being made available later in the fall.
Jess has always enjoyed a wide range of music genres and eras. Connecting deeply with classical music, she played cello from grade school through high school, and although no longer actively playing, her affinity for finding an emotional connection to music is still strong. Residing in central PA, she is new to the Canadian music scene and enjoys listening to new artists as a way to break away from “the usual.” Jess is an avid yogi who often finds a sliver of peace while on the yoga mat with good music playing in the background.
