Hailing from Perth and firmly planted at the forefront of the Australian funk and soul scene, Randa & The Soul Kingdom are led by Jordanian born and Australian raised vocalist Randa Khamis. This Autumn the band get ready to unleash their 2nd album titled ‘What You Need’ on Freestyle Records, produced by regular cohort Lance Ferguson (The Bamboos/Lanu on Tru Thoughts). Whilst retaining a large helping of funk undercurrent, ‘What You Need’ also incorporates elements of 60’s and Northern soul, 70’s disco and some down tempo, reflective moments within what is a varied and mature collection of songs, ultimately driven by the high octane soul-sista power tool that is Randa’s voice! Kicking off with the happening groove of ‘Power In Me’, Randa’s vocals ride over a powerful, bold and brassy riff that crackles with positive energy that is pure dance floor gold. While ‘Love Sick’ still tinged with a gritty funk feel also delves into the 1960’s stomping soul arena and brings it to the forefront of a more modern accessible sound. Another highlight is the disco driven ‘The Things’ which sees Randa flex her disco diva muscles to quite stunning effect! Squelchy synths ride over an insistent disco beat, whilst Lance Ferguson’s scratchy guitar evokes the heady, hedonistic era of Chic, Studio 54 and Bianca Jagger riding a white horse across the dancefloor! The super cool ‘Slide’ offers a grand helping of ‘shake what your mama gave ya’ funk laced with a mean guitar solo and brass stabs, ‘Save Us’ is a shift dress shaking nod to the 60’s with a modern breaksy twist. ‘Be Yourself’ evokes up tempo, mid 60’s Motown with handclaps, tambourines and snappy, sharp drums, in contrast ‘Cold’ paints a picture of a troubled romance, love lost and hearts breaking, the fodder for soul music since it first began. With this follow up album, Randa & The Soul Kingdom cement their reputation as one of the most hard working and authentic purveyors of genuine 21st century soul.
3 out of 5
Reviewed By A.Rash
