Prime Panda get experimental but stay true to the rhythm with ‘Love Departed’
The London-based neo-soul band share their latest single
Photo: Jom Jungwiwattanaporn
The newest offering from the London-based neo-soul collective presents us with a head-bopping tune that swerves and surprises. The start is strong: a progressive jazz riff which only builds and builds in intensity to something more layered, intercut with sparse breaks for Tess Williams’ soulful verses. Then, just as you can claim some familiarity with the sound, there comes a complete shift in style and tempo to a lighter, laidback melody. It’s different, and it keeps you on your toes.
What I find so endearing about Love Departed is the way its undeniably infectious lead rhythm grooves but also conveys a sense of impending doom, only to mellow out into a completely different sensibility as the track rebirths. The free-form jazzy flourishes sound off like a battle between the keys and guitar. The ending chimes especially puts one in mind of Hiatus Kaiyote, who are clearly an influence on the young band.
Ultimately, the dominant riff is what sticks in your mind long after the track ends, but its unique ending softens the intensity of the blow. In essence, Love Departed is a dazzling effort at merging Prime Panda’s soul basics with a confident new edge — and I’m here for it!
