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Hoofing through the better part of a decade, Gainesville’s 9-piece retro-soul and blues amalgam The Savants of Soul have been threading the needle, pinpointing the evolution of their sound to the city of Muscle Shoals, where they recorded their forthcoming record at Rick Hall’s legendary FAME Studios. Over the course of ten days, the band recorded 14 songs with acclaimed producer Vince Chiarito (Charles Bradley, Black Pumas) and engineer John Gifford III, Studio A manager, tenant and student of Rick Hall (Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, Etta James), aka “the father of Muscle Shoals music.”
The Savants of Soul embody an idea that comes from literary master William Faulkner – “the past is never dead.” It’s an approach that’s brought the band recognition on the national festival scene. The group relies heavily on their live sound and energy, with an airtight rhythm section that summons the warmth, vibrance and nitty-gritty confluence of The Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section (aka The Swampers). The nine members imbue their music with a swagger, verve and exuberance that feels distinctly Southern.
The Savants of Soul’s forthcoming self-titled record (out 9/18), sees the evolution of their sound with a very different group of people from those who recorded on Downtown Sound and Sunday Best. “We’ve grown in many different ways: emotionally, spiritually, and quite literally with this newest iteration of the band,” says bassist and founding member, John Gray Shermyen. “And Religiously,” quips powerhouse vocalist and self-proclaimed “Reverend of Rhythm,” Justin McKenzie. The other members include principle guitarist Will Campbell, Zack Emerson (keyboards), Mandy Ferwerda (trumpet, vocals), Jacob Armstrong (trombone), Jordan Jones (tenor saxophone), Ray Vigil (baritone sax) and Benny Cannon (drums).
Today we’re thrilled to premiere the new track “Swell” – streaming below. The song immediately puts you in a good mood, and once the horns and vocals kick in, you’ll be cranking up the volume and nodding along. “Swell” is super fun, endearing, and uplifting. It’s the perfect way to start the day.
In their own words:
“‘Swell’ was inspired by a former student that had confided in me about a crush they had on a classmate, saying that she was ‘swell.’ I remember finding that to be so darling, and ran with the idea of having a sincere appreciation for another person, and the blossoming of that relationship over time. A twist in the story from some of our bitter ending love songs—this is the sweet side of love.” – Mandy Ferwerda
Stream the track below and be sure to connect on socials for more!
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