Quantic Soul Orchestra Pushin On CD - Import

The second full-length release by the Quantic Soul Orchestra, which organizer Will Holland uses for his live-band recordings (distinguished from his solo projects as Quantic), is another funk-fest that doesn't just consider James Brown's late-'60s unit a band to emulate, but apparently a body to have exhumed. There's no doubt that Quantic is successful -- very much so -- at re-creating the energy and flair, even the precise studio sound, of its intended target. When the author of the liner notes assures readers, however, that "this is strictly about live music all the way, no samples or studio tricknology allowed," how are they supposed to understand the credits stating that Will Holland played at least guitars and bass on all of these tracks, and often saxophone to boot? The question is strictly academic, because Pushin On is an excellent party record that would do the Godfather proud (to say nothing of Lyn Collins and Pretty Purdie). Alice Russell nails her shrieking soul vocal on the title track, and drummer Russell Knight again earns bucketfuls of praise for his unhinged drumming. (If it's true that the opener uses no "studio tricknology," he should rightly take his place alongside the best, and quickest, drummers of all time.) Russell's cover of the Anthony Newley/Leslie Bricusse film titles "Feelin Good" and "Hold On Tight" don't quite come together, and the second half of the album devolves into mere imitation, but Holland shows himself a master of the funk band. (As producer, he also deserves a mountain of credit for giving Pushin On exactly the upfront sound it needs to succeed.) ~ John Bush

Sales Points: Will Holland keeps on with his musical mission under his Quantic Soul Orchestra guise with the follow up to the huge selling 'Stampede' album. Musically, the album has an energetic and dance floor friendly funk style with a sound ripe for the 21st Century. The album features long time collaborator Alice Russell on 'Hold On Tight', 'Feelin' Good', 'End Of The Road' and 'Pushin' On' (which has already been described by many as one the best "new" funk records ever). Mr. Holland was the first Tru Thoughts artist to work with Alice, and they always produce classic tracks whenever they join forces. Alice's performances clearly show why the major labels are now beginning to take an interest in this UK Soul Sensation (but hands off for now as she records her next album for Tru Thoughts to be released in September!). This is the 25-year-old producer's sixth album release and the quality of music keeps improving. Also features the highly in-demand cover version of Mr. Scruff's classic 'Get A Move On. Comes packaged in a digi-pak.Tru Thoughts. 2005.