Horace Greene is gaining attention with their new single, "Cream", a track that blends the warmth of a '60s soul melody with the emotional intensity of blues and alternative music. On this release, the three further solidify a reputation as a band that's not afraid to push the boundaries of musical genres, capturing a sound that feels both thoughtful and modern.
Leading the charge of Horace Greene's magnetic mojo is lead singer and guitarist Tony Oakley. His voice captivates with ease, and can instantly draw you in with "Cream," an interesting storytelling track from the start. Oakley's guitar playing effortlessly shifts between understated, soulful licks and more off-the-cuff, bluesy phrasing, providing a sense of dynamic contrast that keeps the listener on board throughout.
Slap-style bassist Sam Swetlik grounds the listener, his lines breezy and fat, somehow threading through the song's delicate melodic patterns from the roots up while running alongside. In the meantime, drummer Mitch Washebek lays down a groove that's both tight and spontaneous enough to let the rhythm section stretch out and expand in what certainly sounds to be an intentional yet pleasantly loose way. The trio collectively has a synergy that reflects their talent and many years of practice.
"Cream" not only nods to the past but flips it on its head. There's a feeling of exploration in every bar, a willingness to operate outside genre lines while still embracing an accessible and viscerally engaging sound. The fact that it's a forward-thinking song is a testament to the band's commitment to making music that is felt not just emotionally, but rhythmically and with a bit of intellect.