Detroit heavy-soul duo Silent Lions have released a lo-fi-powered, six-track album titled The Compartments.
Rooted in Toledo, the “Hall and Oates stoner rock” group have made a home in the Motor City. Their combination of blues-rock, R&B and dark soul conjures a lo-fi sound, but seamlessly integrates the contemporary elements of heavy bass and synth driven melodies.
Silent Lions’ Dean Tartaglia demonstrates his lyrical soulfulness with the album’s first track – “Runnin’ Me Down,” during which vocal octaves change dramatically and harmonies complement a hard-hitting drum rhythm. The bass’ deep, fuzzy distortion creates a dark, almost electronic-inspired, hum which drives high-pitched synthesizers throughout the song.
“Stolen in the Heat of the Moment” is a toe-tapping, hard-hitting dance track of sorts. The delicate composition of Tartaglia’s chorus contrasts the song’s heavy-handed breakdown. Deep synths and cymbals conflict to create an awesome battle of rock and percussion-pop elements.
“I can’t let you leave, can’t get you off my mind. You know it does get better – you just have to give it time.”
The album’s sixth and final track, “Space in Time,” is a slowed-down, soulful theme of thrashing beats and deep fuzzed-out guitar riffs. The guitar lead is naturally faded into a bed of synths, hard bass-lines and loosely composed drums by Matt Klein. Ambient vocals echo distantly as strings and synths groan together.
The Compartments is filled with hard rhythms, crunching bass and fantastically-integrated electronic elements. Silent Lions have shown Detroit music listeners that a band can be soulful, hard-hitting, catchy and still remain loyal to their signature groove.
Purchase The Compartments here.