This month we’ve got our hands on the 21st edition of one of Bongo Boy Records‘ longest running album series. Volume XXI is part of a compilation album series that first began in 2014 and shows no signs of slowing down. This edition features a compelling selection of tracks primarily in the hip-hop, pop, and rock genres, brought to listeners by some of indie music’s most promising up and coming artists.
A ten track album, Volume XXI starts on a high note with TOUCH by R.O.M.A.N. An extremely modern hip-hop track, this high-energy number is danceable and intense, with a reverberating beat and intricate lead vocal. This is followed by familiar track Mr. Crazy by ARTIC BABA which we raved about on its appearance alongside its music video on the latest Bongo Boy TV Episode.
I’ll Never Stop by AED Projek is a textured pop number with a driving beat. The strong female vocal bears resemblance to Shakira at times, bringing a slight Latin flair in the rhythm that serves to amplify the effect. It’s always a pleasure to find the work of Studeo on any of Bongo Boy’s compilation albums – their warm and rounded timbre always adds a depth and richness to the collection, and their work on In The Nick of Time is no exception.
We also find the familiar work of songwriter Clark Ford on this project, and we’re excited to find one of our favorite’s of his titled Celebrate The Sun shining in the center of the album (you can read our in depth review of this single here). Following this is another pair of artists we’ve found by way of Bongo Boy Records – the electric and intoxicating Gigantesco by Combine-Music and Thiunife is a true pleasure to revisit.
A Love Like Ours is no doubt a stand out on this album. David Scott Kocher’s classic voice is warm, rich and has inviting effect, bringing listeners fully into his gentle romantic ballad full of strings and heartfelt songwriting. And finally, rounding out this dynamic collection is an expert display of guitar work from Grit’s Guitar on Cry Me a River, which is a bluesy, almost psychadelic dive into technical and textural instrumentals.
If you’ve been a long time reader of The Ark, you know that Bongo Boy Records simply never disappoints. Every curated collection is full of top-tier indie music, where each track feels like discovering buried treasure, and Volume XXI stands as yet another testament to that fact. For fans of modern pop, rock, hip-hop, and so much more, get yourself a copy of this dazzling collection on the official website, or stream it for yourself below!
Bongo Boy Records is always looking for quality independent artists. Sound like you? Email submit@bongoboyrecords.com
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BELOW: Listen to Vol. XXI and connect with their website and social media platforms. Please support Bongo Boy Records by visiting them online, and by playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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