Waves is the 2024 album from the 7-piece ensemble, TOI (Tunes Of I), produced by Wellington based artist and producer Neil MacLeod. Throughout the 10 tracks, you are treated to the true talent of each of these musicians; layers of guitar, trombone, saxophone, synths and keys create a tasteful blend of funk, dub and soul.
The album opens with Te Mara; a garden where you are immersed in native bird song and chimes. Very softly the sounds of the band creeps in – a perfect lead in to one of my favourite songs on the album; Get To Know You. “You, sitting over there with your smiling eyes…”, Who, me?! You wanna get to know me?! I’m blushing! The of bursts of brass throughout the chorus gives the song a cheeky feel. It’s a perfect summer-loving groove that will have you dancing whether you like it or not, (but trust me, you will).
I even enjoyed the interludes on this album (not that I was looking for a break from the main track list by any means), but I felt I was peeking behind the curtain to the inner workings of the band and some of their experimental sounds. Found (Interlude) starts as a quiet smoke break, and then descends into a psychedelic brass whirlwind. Sunday (Interlude) has a dazed and hazy vibe with a trombone solo that captures the feeling of a languid weekend morning.
Another stand-out for me was the final track. Opening with keys and a delectable guitar riff; ‘Slow Down’ is particularly soulful and ties into the album title perfectly: “We face the storm together, and the change in tides is what we must weather”. Themes of nature are prevalent in this album; the cover artwork and title, gardens, water, sunshine, and bird song. Conway Jeune’s velvety lead vocals are a perfect match for thoughtful and introspective lyrics. The brass, drums and guitar on this song create a melodic and harmonious atmosphere, which carries through into a 2 minute long outro. TOI’s reputation as a dynamic and skilled entity holds true; everything from the backing vocals down to the tinkling of a triangle has been skilfully layered. Impressively, the 7 members come together on Waves as one flawless instrument of roots and modern soul.
TOI will be performing in their hometown of Wellington at Meow on September 20th, 2024 for a one-off Waves album release show. The FOMO is real for this Kirikiriroa fan! Never fear, I’m very excited that I will see their renowned stage presence as one of the opening acts at the Fat Freddy’s Drop shows in February.
