Review
As I immerse myself in Khruangbin's "A LA SALA", I'm transported to a vibrant realm where music knows no borders. The Houston trio's latest creation is a masterful blend of laid-back grooves and atmospheric psychedelia, with each instrument entwining effortlessly to create a sensory experience that's both expansive and intimate. The flavors of "A LA SALA" are as rich as a warm, spiced tea on a lazy afternoon, with hints of folk-inspired textures and West African funk that dance on the palate. Tracks like "Pon Pón" burst with a joyful, buoyant energy, while "May Ninth" wraps the listener in a soothing, intimate embrace.
Khruangbin's signature minimalist approach is the key to "A LA SALA"'s timeless charm, where every note and beat is a deliberate, considered brushstroke on the canvas of sound. "Ada Jean" conjures the dusty, sun-scorched expanses of a spaghetti western, its twangy guitars and laconic rhythms evoking a bygone era. As the album unfolds, a kaleidoscope of colors and textures emerges – burnt oranges, turquoise, and golden honey – each one reflecting the band's eclectic influences and their desire to bring people together. With "A LA SALA", Khruangbin invites us to join them in a sonic celebration that's both a return to their roots and a bold step forward into the unknown. - Calista
Artist Bio
Khruangbin is a trio from Houston, Texas, made up of Laura Lee Ochoa, Mark Speer, and Donald Ray "DJ" Johnson Jr., known for blending global sounds like 1960s Thai funk, Middle Eastern grooves, and dub with funk, soul, and alternative rock. They started releasing music in the mid-2010s, with their first album, The Universe Smiles Upon You, coming out in 2015 and gaining attention for its distinctive international vibe. The band has expanded their sound through collaborations with Leon Bridges and by incorporating more vocals in their 2020 album, Mordechai. They’re recognized for eclectic live shows, festival appearances, and curated DJ mixes celebrating world music, and have maintained a steady rise in popularity with albums like Con Todo El Mundo and A LA SALA. Fans of Menahan Street Band, BADBADNOTGOOD, and Vulfpeck might find Khruangbin’s laid-back yet adventurous style appealing.
