GAYNGS- Relayted

GAYNGS is a collective of some today’s major indie names.
“Another ‘supergroup’?” I hear you cry. Yes, another supergroup but this one has much more to offer and is much more experimental than the others formed of late. It all started with the combination of trio Ryan Olson with Solid Gold’s Zack Coulter and Adam Hurlburt. The musical family then grew to include over 25 other indie heavy-weights, including Justin Vernon (Bon Iver), P.O.S (emcee of Rhymesayer) Jack Luke (Leisurebirds) and Ivan Howard (The Rosebuds). Relayted is the debut album from the collective and was released in Australia just last week through Jagjaguwar.

Opening track ‘Gaudy side of town’ draws you in with slick beats and smooth vocals, but maybe a bit too smooth as reminded me of George Michael for a split second. Once I could get passed that brief resemblance, it is really cool and enjoyable listening; would suit a Sunday morning chill out and/or rolling around in bed naked with that special someone.
Following that is ‘The Walker’ featuring the hot, deep, gooey honey-like voice of Ivan Howard on lead vocals. Accompanying the talented Howard is wiry, winding guitar, and sweet, eerie backing vocals that make this a stand-out track. Although it must be noted that the ending of it (the last minute or so) is a little weird, with the deep voice rapping all of a sudden then a rather eighties melody leading us into the next track. Strange indeed, but not at all unpleasant, and somewhat to be expected with so many different musical minds involved on the album. It is refreshing. Another highlight of this album is ‘Faded High’ featuring lovely vocals of M. Vincent Vaughner Noyce, Katy Morley, and Maggie Wander. Also the cruisey ‘Crystal Rope’ and ‘Ride’, again perfect for a chilled and/or hung-over state.

Expect rap, beautiful vocals, jazz saxophone, some slide guitar, impressive drummers at times producing almost tribal beats; you name it this album has it all collected and collaborating! It could’ve been messy, but they have pulled it off. With their musical powers combined they have succeed in creating something genuinely exciting and some crazy, unique sounds. Listen out for P.O.S, leaving behind his hip-hop rapping antics for a moment and switching to a striking soul-inspired tenor.

Relayted is a varied, at times strange, positive experience for listeners. Ones that are indie, soft rock, R&B, and/or hip-hop fans, or those that just need a quality chilled out record to kick back to.

See www.JAGJAGUWAR.com