L.A.B. just keep going from strength to strength - this super band of sorts consists of members from Kora and Katchafire, and they really know how to write a tune and nothing personifies this more than this new single called Personify.
The track starts with an intro Elton John would love to have written, a cascade of sweet keys that rain down over a bed of spaced out bluesy organ with it then morphing into a funky guitar riff. I really dig how this track builds, it has great space in the intro and a very catchy chorus with a mean infectious groove.
For people who love the more organic side of Kora and the sweet funky vibes of Tahuna Breaks (RIP), this tune is going to tick all of the right boxes.
I prefer this organic flavour over the electronica vibe of L.A.B's previous releases, funky, gritty and ballsy... and if this is the direction these guys are headed in with their next album then sign me up, I’m in!
The pedigree and musicianship of L.A.B. is undeniable.
L.A.B. was founded by the legendary Kora brothers Brad (drums) and Stu (guitar, keys) and quickly engaged the extraordinary talent of Joel Shadbolt on lead vocals & guitar and Ara Adams-Tamatea from the mighty Katchafire on bass.
The L.A.B. sound is one which has seen them quickly become a fan favourite on the New Zealand live circuit – trademark Kora grooves combining with Adams-Tamatea’s reggae/dub experience, and Shadbolt’s blues roots to create a sound entirely their own. Each member brings their own individual styles to the table, and the result is an eclectic mix of reggae, electronic, blues, funk, and reggae, even heading into country at points.