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Music Review: Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings

<em>Give the People What They Want</em> by Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings.
Buy Photos Give the People What They Want by Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings.

Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings
Give the People What They Want
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Soul

In its new album, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings Give the People What They Want. The record brings back classic funk and soul formulas — everything from the short, articulate rhythms of funk to the powerful vocals of soul. Yet the band is able to use the formula in a way that is new and exciting.

The album was originally going to be released in August, but the release was postponed when Jones was diagnosed with cancer. After recovering for the past year, she has returned to the music scene.

Give the People What They Want opens with a powerful timpani roll in “Retreat,” followed by a prominent low bass line with the brass and remaining rhythm section in the background. Jones’ voice blasts through the texture, making for an incredible opening song.

The tracks heavily draw on brass and backup singers, and Jones’ singing is powerful and expressive throughout. The album rings with a spirited and defiant tone, covering subject matter such as difficult relationships (“Making Up and Breaking Up”) and unfairness in the world (“People Don’t Get What They Deserve”).

The rest of the album is filled with funky flavor, with heavy brass and percussion supporting Jones’ strong voice. The guitar, which acts as an important part of the rhythm section, makes flawless transitions between different articulations to change the mood of each song.

Give the People What They Want is mostly upbeat, but concludes with a slower song, “Slow Down Love.” This song brings an intimate and calming close to an exciting and satisfying album.

Stephanie Zimmerman

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