Flexing the same slow-burning groove employed by everyone from Marvin Gaye to D’Angelo and Erykah Badu, the debut from Blk Odyssy simmers with a diffused yet nervy energy. Led by Austin’s Sam Houston, the band’s bedrock funk is sure-footed. Framing a mid-album lull are the two hook-laden tracks, the steamy “Hang Low”, and on the other end, “Murda”, with a sprightly pulse that belies its dark message. When Houston was only 13, his older brother was killed by the police. It’s on the album’s chilling closer, “Drinking Good”, when he comes to see his family’s tragedy as far from unique. “Another nigga shot and killed it’s just another day.” – Jeff McCord
BLK ODYSSY – “Blk Vintage”
Record Label: Self-released
Release Date: August 27, 2021
