Tallest Man

While staying true to their contemporary funk roots, The New Mastersounds delve into fresh musical territory on Breaks from the Border, serving up a new-fangled blend of inspired and virtuosic soul-grooves. Drummer Simon Allen dials up the tempo to a near-sprint for “Run the Gauntlet,” the first of a handful of pulsating instrumental grooves. “On the Border” is carried by guitarist Eddie Roberts’ sparkling articulation, establishing a familiar and tenacious Meters-quality riff for Joe Tatton to build off of. The loose and kickin’ rockabilly stomp-clapper “Free Man” veers off the beaten funk path, while the highlight “Walk In These Shoes” is straight cookin’ – a tune that should translate brilliantly to the live stage and serve as a catalyst for further exploration. Oozing with style while keeping it real, The New Mastersounds deliver.