[TuneOTD] The Future Shape of Sound - TFSOS POEM

Artist: The Future Shape of Sound

Genre: Space Age Gangster Soul
Location: London, UK
Label Type: Indie
Record Label: Mostar Records
Website: http://www.mostarrecords.com/the-future-shape-of-sound/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheFutureShapeOfSound
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/thefutureshapeofsound

Yesterday we brought you the wonderful ‘Superhero’ by LickSpittle, and today we bring you the other half of the intra-label ‘song off’ within the realms of Mostar Records. This quirky number comes in the form of the ‘TFSOS Poem’ by The Future Shape of Sound, in what basically is an ode to their vision of the future direction of music. Just in case, you’re not quite switched on yet, TFSOS is an abbreviation of the band’s name. Whilst the single was only officially released yesterday, it’s actually the first-track off their 2004 debut album titled Mad DNA Mud.

Now that’s out the way, let’s get on to the actual song. Again, the main thing that really stands out with this band is the unique mix of opposing vocal styles, which ultimately serve as perfect complements to each other. On the one hand you have the raw energy of the hustling and bustling Big Daddy Kai, and then on the other hand you have the soulful aura of the funky Nomtai Mabo.

The opening to the song is introduced by the wonderful 60’s organ-style keyboards which continue splendidly throughout whilst incorporating the funky hip-hop vocals and various other instruments producing a real sassy and catchy tune. Furthermore, you can clearly identify influences from the field of psychedelic rhythm and blues as well as that old and gritty sound you get with northern soul. Aside from this, the theme that is continuous with all Future Shape songs is the influence of 60’s gangster films, and if you mix all these together into a melting pot of uncertainty, the end result is a wonderful exhibition of "Space Age Gangster Soul".

Now the only thing left to do is to kick back and relax to the wonderful ‘TFSOS Poem’:

Matthew Evans

[TuneOTD] The Future Shape of Sound - THINKING BAD THOUGHTS

Artist: The Future Shape of Sound
Genre: Space Age Gangster Soul
Location: London, UK 
Label Type: Indie
Record Label: Mostar Records
Website: http://www.mostarrecords.com/the-future-shape-of-sound/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheFutureShapeOfSound
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/thefutureshapeofsound

According to this band, The Future Shape of Sound is to be up-beat jazzy 12 bar blues…or as they self-proclaim “Space Age Gangster Soul”. Yeah, you read that right, can’t do anything else but give it a listen now!

This groovy number begins with a striking guitar riff, quickly introducing a lovely blend of organs and brass. Adding to this mix is the vocals of Big Daddy Kai combining positive influences from the genres of blues, soul and hip-hop. Then as if it couldn’t take on another dimension, the mellifluous female vocals of Nomtai Mabo enter the fray. The track remains funky throughout, with the organs leaving a lasting impression alongside the infectious bass provided by The Vaccines very own Arni Hjorvar. Arni isn’t the only special guest to appear on the record however as Jack Cowens of Dub Pistols also makes an appearance on drums. Perhaps an ending to the song could have been reached better, but hey, not every part of every song can be to everyone’s satisfaction right?

I presume the name of the band is meant ironically as their music is retro and heavily influenced by 60’s music, specifically blues. If not meant ironically, well then this is the way I believe they should market themselves. As for the single itself, it’s sexy, it’s got swagger and it will make you swing those hips!

‘Thinking Bad Thoughts’ will be on TFSOS’s EP titled ‘Eleven 59’ to be released on Mostar Records later this year. 

Matthew Evans