Mayer Hawthorne via the Pacific Coast Highway. Every time Stones Throw releases something new that isn't Madlib, Doom, or Madlib AND Doom it tends to throw the legions of fans off. The divide is generally strong and it's a shame because the label is clearly one of the best to exist with their head honcho (sup Wolf!) always finding unique talent that is clearly on some next shit. Their latest act, Silk Rhodes, first made their appearance on the soundtrack to the Stones Throw documentary 'Our Vinyl Weighs A Ton' followed by a 7" and now their anticipated full length. The album is filled with lo-fi soulful numbers that recall the first Mayer Hawthorne single, only replace the Detroit nods with sunny melodies, occasional Disco freakouts, and church band garage session outtakes then you're getting close. Stand out cuts are 'Realtime' which sounds like Madlib brainstorming his YNQ alias, 'This Painted World' is if the Bee Gees wrote for The Sylvers, 'The System' is one of those rainy day cuts that makes you remember every sentimental moment in your life. Recommended.

• music label: Stones Throw Records 2014

reviewed by Stuck Like Chuck 12/2014