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The New Mastersounds: Out On the Faultline

One Note

On Out On the Faultline, The New Mastersounds strut toward a viable claim as the most progressive funk band out there. Hints of, and homage to, an old-school jazz-funk sound are prevalent throughout, but the development of an edgier, more imaginative direction is the overriding takeaway while listening to this well-paced and varied record. From the slinky mid-tempo Hammond-funk opener “You Mess Me Up” toward the frenetic and choppy, punk-paced “Ding A Ling” (a greased-down track that’s heavy on signature jazz guitar playing and has a markedly sepia-toned production quality), the variance from track to track keeps the listen compelling and engaging throughout. After the spoken word homage on “Welcome to NOLA” (featuring Papa Mali), a huge gearshift is apparent during the LP’s apex on “Summercamp.” This psychedelic and lustrous rave-up showcases Joe Tatton’s thrill-riding keyboard arrangements and each player’s solo abilities. By looking backward and moving pointedly forward, this funk force delivers a modern statement that is both exploratory and remarkably accessible.