Label: Self-Released Rating: 4 Guns
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Written By: Hilary Hughes
It’s been a long time since I’ve come across a sound as refreshing, uplifting and intriguing as that of The Kindness Kind, and their latest release couldn’t have come into my possession at a better time: This winter has been a frigid, merciless bitch here in Boston, and I’m in desperate need of some good vibes in whatever form they happen to come in.
The Kindness Kind may very well be my salvation: Alessandra Rose’s vocal prowess is undeniable, and her singing, coupled with the solid, carefully constructed band behind her, makes for a vibrant package that brilliantly showcases the raw talent of this jazzy, bluesy three-person powerhouse.
Though all seven of the tracks on the band’s latest self-titled release are currently playing on a loop on my iTunes, favorite selections include “On and Off Again”, “The Lusk Letter” and “Lotus”.
“On and Off Again” is, without a doubt, my favorite song on the album: There isn’t anything remarkably revolutionary about the chords or lyrics, but the combination of equal parts of the lilting piano lines, the modest guitar riffs, the bass drum-heavy beat and Rose’s velvet voice make for a compelling composition that definitely deserves a listen (or few.)
Ever the sucker for percussion-heavy tracks, I’m also a big fan of “The Lusk Letter”, where Rose trips up and down scales to keep up with the minor chords and moving beats provided by Charles Nelson and Nicholas Danielson. I like the meditative melancholy of “Lotus”: It’s a lovely contrast to the rest of the danceable, upbeat album, and the darker, moody tones speak to the band’s experience as a jazz outfit hailing from Seattle.
I’ve got a few more icy, murky days in store before the winter in Boston dissipates, but listening to The Kindness Kind on repeat has lifted my spirits drastically. It’s not just the mood-enhancing melodies and clever compositional qualities on their recent self-titled release that has me singing their praises: It’s their ability to blend beautiful vocals and innovative instrumental talents into a cohesive, consistently inviting sound that keeps me coming back for more of this sound that really is the Kindest on the ears of its Kind.
Like The Kindness Kind? You may also like: Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Regina Spektor, Björk
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