The Vanrays have unleashed their latest EP, Hey! Alright Now, and it’s a soul-infused triumph. The tracks seamlessly melds the raw energy of garage rock with the smooth grooves of classic R&B, creating a sound that is timeless and refreshing. From the moment the title track kicks in, one is treated to a vibrant tapestry of punchy horns, deep rhythms, and soulful vocals that transport them straight to the heart of a Motown-inspired dance floor.
Serving as a haunting centrepiece with its poignant lyrics and ethereal melodies is “Ghost”. It captures the essence and emotional depth of the band as lead vocalist Spencer McKinnon delivers a stirring performance. Backed by the band’s tight instrumentation from Phil Addington (bass), Eric Lowe (drums) Gordon Rempel (keys) Brian Barr and Andrew Samuel (guitars) Jose Blanco (trumpet), and Melissa Lee (tenor saxophone), their sound is that of the golden era of soul music while firmly planting their feet in the modern day.
Produced by Scott Fletcher who is known for his exceptional work on their previous album, Hey! Alright Now seizes the gritty yet polished spirit of The Vanrays’ sound. The production brings out the best in each track and the band’s dedication to recreating the big energy of classic Stax and Motown recordings is evident in every note, from the upbeat grooves of “Lightning” to the introspective allure of “Ghosts.”
Whether you’re a fan of Otis Redding, the Spencer Davis Group, or simply in search of new music that moves both body and soul, The Vanrays’ Hey! Alright Now is an essential listen. It’s a soulful journey that not only invites one to dance, reflect, but to also feel deeply.
