Sunday, August 21, 2022

Brandon Delmont: Soul of a Delmont

 


       Brandon Delmont may be best known as the talented drummer for girlpope, but the composer and multi-instrumentalist has been more than busy since that band ended its career. He has and/or still performs and writes for bands including the Lindbergh Babies, A House Safe for Tigers, Odiorne and the underrated A Son of the Sun.

     This year, he released a new 7-song recording, “Soul of a Delmont,” for NocturnalSol, and it is simply wonderful. Melding jazz, pop, soul, funk and rock. the all-instrumental recording allows Delmont to stretch out and work with some fine musicians, while apparently playing much of the music, from drums to other instruments. “It’s McLemore” starts things with horns, guitar and organ leading a smooth but soulful song with some swing and 1970s feel, and adds a real cool organ solo from Janes “Jamie” Burgess, who supplies most of the trumpet and trombone here. “”Way of War” is a bit more mellow, with the horns swelling to a stronger trumpet lead and more funky rhythm guitar.


     My two favorite songs come in the middle of the recording: “926” is basic, majestic jazz and soul with some bluesy heat and slower tempo, while “Sort of Blue” sounds a bit like a tribute to Miles Davis’ classic “Kind of Blue,” with moody lead trumpet and a smokey backing band. Elsewhere, “Now and Ben” blends 60s pop, rock and soul while swinging organ and trumpet both take leads and Joey Tosto plays a sweet guitar solo; “Ready, Set, Go!” Is another slice of pop and soul, and “Casi En Casa” is regal jazz, soul and pop well mixed.


     Brandon Delmont and NocturnalSun can be found on Bandcamp, Delmont also on Apple Music and both he and several of his bands can be found on Facebook and other social media.

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