LT & B OH MY defy any and all categorization on the eclectic journey of “Evolved Souls in Ancient Avatars”. A truly beguiling mix of sounds, they bring a wide array of styles into the mix forgoing trends for something a bit more classic. Funk, lo-fi, pop, hip-hop, R&B, and of course firmly rooted in a psychedelic sheen results in an absolute kaleidoscope of approaches with many layers intermingling in a way that has such a distinct, joyous spirit to it. Vocals too draw from a wide variety of sources for they have a nimbleness, reflecting the carefully crafted sea mix that they adorn.
Only a few groups are mining such sorts of sounds, specifically the laid-back never-ending grooves of Unknown Mortal Orchestra. Like that group, they too have a sort of warm, ancient sound that is infused with so much soul. Going further afield, some of their approach has a distinct psychedelic funk to it, with Parliament being a particular touchstone for their tact. However, despite their influences, the way that LT & B OH MY sculpt the sound results in a world that feels very much their own unique thing.
“Ancient Evolution (feat. Tracy Penokie)” starts the album off in grand style. Lyrics have a fractured poetry to them for the lines go for a surrealist bent. Infectious grooves take the lead on the tremendous swagger of “Espírito Ancestral (feat. Bianca Amante)” whose expansiveness is a thing of exquisite beauty. The nu jazz rhythms of “The Movement (feat. Casper Sanderson, Vynez, Dun-Dee William E)” gives it an overpowering emphasis, with the loose drum work adding to its lively presence. Chaotic, enormous riffs take hold on the intense razor-sharp vision of “Gorilla Warfare (feat. Prince Golden & Fega Michaels)”. Like an ancient 80s pop song as filtered through modern technology is the celebratory “Dance Betty Dance (feat. Odili Ifeanyi)”.
By far the highlight comes through with the wild energy of “We Came to Get Down (feat. Casper Sanderson)”. Within this piece they bring so much into the mix, all the while maintaining a tender melody that roots the sound. Such lush keys filter into the fray on the plush scope of “Jugador Jugador No Odias (feat. Sosa Glez & Manuel Trabucco)”. Swirling about in a delirious daze the churning basslines of “Swimming of Souls (feat. Isabela Nobrega)” lend the work a dreamy disposition. Neatly tying all that came before it together is the whirlwind of the funky “Quantum Entanglement (feat. Casper Sanderson)”.
“Evolved Souls in Ancient Avatars” shows off LT & B OH MY’s unique range and classic, golden sense of psychedelic pop.