Australia's funk-soul-brothers, The Bamboos inject a hefty clout of swing into their third and finest album to date, Side Stepper. This seven-piece outfit, who look as cool as the tunes they produce, are rocking a genre that tends to get left behind in the current rat race of synth-inspired pop-pulp.

From the first listen, the Tru-Thoughts release Side Stepper has an infectious energy that will have you grooving like an old school soul sister. Tunes to put on repeat include: a collaboration with Kylie Auldist, 'Tears Cried', which is a beautifully melodic homage to a bygone era in soul history, and 'King of the Rodeo' featuring the lusty vocals of Megan Washington - a track that tantalises with its upbeat tempo and quirky horn section.

The mood is definitely sizzling hot on the collaborative tracks, with The Bamboos non-vocal tracks acting as cleverly concise interludes. All in all, Side Stepper is a funky fusion of raw, old school breaks and super-heavy soul that represents a refreshing, off kilter take on a vibe that has sadly been neglected in the mainstream musical climate of late. (Holly Wicks) 

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