Put the Needle on the Groove – Brooklyn Soul Stew

Brooklyn Soul Stew‘s signature sound is old-school soul music with big band acoustics, and this time, Brooklyn Soul Stew delivers it on a 10″ LP. Vinyl adds weight to their authenticity and love for the past. This compact format is also quite charming.

Scandinavian soul music predominantly resides on the avant-garde edge of the genre, while Brooklyn Soul Stew burns at the core of soul music’s traditional roots. Brooklyn Soul Stew fights against modern trends they call ‘wear and tear‘ and believes that soul music’s true essence lies in its connection to the past. And I agree. They remind me of the Blues Brothers – also on a mission to honor the past and keep its spirit alive.

This album features four tracks with 1970s studio acoustics. It starts with ‘Bad Guys Always Win,‘ a groovy life lesson sung by the raspy vocals of Pär Grell. This long-playing track transitions to the EP title track ‘Put the Needle on the Groove.’ Led by a duo of voices, which is somewhat confusing, this catchy dancefloor single, injected with electric guitar flames, invites you to a party inspired by the love of vinyl records. It’s also an ode to the evocative power of music. ‘Deep in the Mud’ features lead vocals by Annsofi Wigert and takes you on a soul journey. The album ends with ‘Something Special about You‘, a track that perfectly encapsulates Brooklyn Soul Stew.

When listening to Brooklyn Soul Stew, you can tell they know how to write and perform soul music. Even if you stumble into a bar where they are playing live, I’m sure you’ll stay until the end. Every track feels like it was recorded on a special night, and I’m eager to see them perform live. Anyone can enjoy it, regardless of age or background, though I feel their music was born and is best experienced on stage. Having a vinyl version is a super cool bonus.

Available on vinyl only. Buy a copy here.