Texas based duo ‘Black Pumas’ released their self-titled debut album in 2019; an LP filled with swagger and a surprisingly fresh take on soul. Songs such as ‘Colors’ and ‘Know You Better’ paved the way for their immediate success, automatically bringing new life into what is a genre often too stuck in its own ways.
Their sophomore album, ‘Chronicles of a Diamond’ arrives quite a while after their debut’s release, and guitarist Quesada stated there was, “a lot of pressure and expectation they hadn’t felt before”.
That pressure isn’t felt in the final cut, however, as everyone involved seemed to be focused on purely enjoying themselves. There’s an abundance of glee and life seeping through the entire runtime, reaching from the musicians to the listener. It’s a joy from start to finish.
Lead single and opener, ‘More Than A Love Song’ was the first song to be recorded. It proves that lead singer Eric Burton truly has a voice suited to the genre, swelling amongst the incredible instrumentation that only demands you join in with the groove. The track has a bit of everything, fantastic fuzz guitars, a breakdown of organs and soulful clapping and uplifting backing vocals rejoicing in calls of flying together.
‘Mrs. Postman’ features classy piano lead and expert production. “Tomorrow brings sunshine/In my neighbourhood since you’ve been in it”, sings Burton, who’s church-inspired vocals are on full display. ‘Angel’ is a guitar ballad filled with melancholic melodies, burning a match until it finally comes alight in all of its magic. The performances are masterful — one of the LP’s highlights.
The award for best song perhaps belongs to ‘Hello’, however, with Black Puma’s dynamic coming into full effect. Its opening synth leads sound otherworldly and not something you would necessarily associate with the band. Each musician involved seems to collectively pull all of their tricks out of the bag for this track. Acapella sections and improvised guitar leads are plentiful, sounding like a live performance in the best way possible.
As a result, however, ‘Sauvignon’ can’t help but feel like a return to normality. While not an offensive in the slightest, it does feel like a safer option was taken compared to the previous effort.
Closer ‘Rock & Roll’ is a slow burner in nature but still allows you to enjoy the ride to the top. As it reaches its climax it comes down in fits of guitar riffs and screaming vocals, making it all worth the wait. It’s passionate in all aspects, matching what seems to be the driving force of the duo. Pure and powerful love for their craft.
‘Chronicles of a Diamond’ is a more than worthy followup to the self-titled debut, matching and in some parts outdoing its predecessor. The band’s strength lies in their universal appeal, but to say it’s easy listening would be doing the talent on display a disservice. Black Pumas are the real deal, and their sophomore album indicates they’re here to stay.
Written by Niall McGreevy