Album Review: ‘Back Into It’ by Disaster Relief

Detroit, MI based guitarist, songwriter, producer Darrin James and his team Disaster Relief are back with their second full length album ‘Back Into It’. Just like their self-titled debut album (‘Disaster Relief’) released in 2018, the present album ‘Back Into It’ too is funky, joyful and timeless. The band has expanded their horizon to include more influences and flavors from around the world.

Disaster Relief-Back Into It

The new album combines old school funk with wah-wah guitars to create an upbeat, horn-driven music. Inspired by the likes of Galactic, Antibalas, Budos Band and the Meters, ‘Back Into It’ spreads positive vibes and keeps the Greek wedding party going with danceable grooves.

‘Back Into It’ Tracklist

  1. Back into it
  2. Kalamatianós for Alexander
  3. Beach Song
  4. Weekend Čoček
  5. Ostinato Eleven
  6. What Day Is It?

The album opens with the title track “Back into it”. The soulful infusion of sax, trumpet, guitar, organ and drums makes it an impressive piece for parties. The second track “Kalamatianós for Alexander” is composed to the popular Greek wedding dance rhythm. It reflects James’ own Greek family heritage.

The third track “Beach Song” points towards Afro-Carribean influences, while Weekend Čoček turns the classic Balkan dance into a psychedelic, retro surf-rock jam. The eclecticism and funky charisma continues through the other two tracks “Ostinato Eleven” and “What Day Is It?”, making the entire album a delicious listen.

Artist Info

Darrin James - Disaster Relief Band

‘Back Into It’ is produced by Darrin James under the label of Ravine Records. The music can be categorized as jazz-funk, acid jazz, world and soul. The following artists have contributed to this album:

Brennan Andes: Bass

Rob Avsharian: Drums

Dan Bennett: Alto and Bari Sax

Josef Deas: Organ, Electric Piano, Moog Synth

Tim Haldeman: Tenor Sax

Ross Huff: Trumpet

Darrin James: Guitar, Organ

Randall Moore: Percussion

About Darrin James and Disaster Relief

Darrin James branched away from his blues and roots-rock band in 2018 to form a more improvisational, instrumental and funky project Disaster Relief. The new band draws inspiration from New Orleans funk, Memphis soul, Motown, Afrobeat and seeks to provide more flavors from around the globe.

Disaster Relief released their eponymous debut album in 2018, which earned them loads of praise for their stellar musicianship. The band has built a solid reputation for performing epic live shows that become energetic dance parties. They recently released a collaboration with Detroit’s iconic blues artist Thornetta Davis for a two song single.

More About Disaster Relief and ‘Back Into It’

Disaster Relief official website

Darrin James official website

Disaster Relief on Facebook

YouTube Channel

Stream ‘Back At It’ on Bandcamp

Stream ‘Back At It’ on Spotify