Established over a decade ago, Orgōne is a dynamic West Coast 8-piece soul band that draws from diverse influences such as Afrobeat, Southern soul, psych-rock, and raw funk. Their newest release, Chimera, offers a unique and immersive groovy musical experience that transcends conventional soul records’ boundaries. This record is also one of the longest players the group has released in recent years hitting the 49 minute mark as it features several tracks that pass the 6-minute mark.
Chimera embodies a true fusion of genres, featuring elements of Afro-funk, soulful vocal performances, psychedelic rock, and infectious dance rhythms. Orgōne’s sound thrives with its hypnotic grooves, smooth vocal deliveries, entrancing instrumentals, and richly textured arrangements that captivate listeners from start to finish.
Orgōne’s sound in Chimera reflects a mature evolution of their musical identity. While maintaining their signature intensity and tight instrumentation, the album explores new sonic territories, delving into darker, rawer textures while retaining a sense of hope and vitality throughout.
Fans of Altın Gün, The Budos Band, Khruangbin, Witch, Goat, Monophonics, and early Orgōne releases will find resonance in the eclectic blend of sounds and influences present in Chimera. The album pulls from elements of all the above while its diverse musical styles offers a fresh yet familiar listening experience for aficionados of psychedelic soul and funk.
Key tracks in Chimera include “Hallowed Dreams,” which sets the tone with its heady instrumental atmosphere, and “Zum Zum,” a hooky Afro-funk dance floor anthem that pulsates with infectious energy. Mermans “Mofaya” Mosengo sings in his native Lingala and the song just moves! “Parasols” stands out as a bouncy, cut of Southern New Orleans funk, paying homage to the band’s musical roots and influences. It is an upbeat instrumental that gives all the band members a place to shine.
The album’s lyrical content explores themes of unity, redemption, and the transformative power of music. Tracks like “Tula Muisi (Dance Like Them)” and “Lies & Games” deliver poignant messages layered over gritty rhythms and soulful melodies, inviting listeners to engage with the deeper narratives woven throughout Chimera.
Christopher Anthony
For more of Christopher Anthony’s music reviews, check out The Fire Note
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