With the first silky chords of "Over & Over" pouring through the speakers, it's immediately evident Steve Hale isn't just dropping another single. He's beckoning you to ride shotgun in a time machine stuffed to the factory sunroof with soul and melody. The Oregon singer-songwriter, known for his inimitable sound that mixes old-school soul and modern gloss, does it again, striking a balance with aplomb while showing that groove and emotion still make for a match made in music heaven.
"Over & Over" is everything Hale's fans have grown to adore. It's a fine, emotion-drenched ride that drips with timeless references but refreshes them in a way that's just so 2020. With a deep reservoir of influences to draw from, from Kenny Loggins' smooth delivery to Daryl Hall's melody sense, from Sam Cooke's heartfelt phrasing to Hale's distinctive tone, he creates a jam that sounds like it always belonged in your favorite mix.
But this isn't a solo ride. The song comes with Steve Hale and the Super Soul Heroes providing the pulsating rhythm and features some of Portland's finest Funk and R&B players. This A-list roster injects tangible energy into the track, and their chemistry sizzles in each tight horn stab, laid-back groove, and bright harmony. This is the sort of band whose members might casually mention gigging with The Tonight Show, being inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame, recording with Diana Ross, and backing the Blind Boys of Alabama. Yet, they all play the song with humility and fire.