Orgone - Lost Knights [Indie Exclusive]

Orgone have been playing funk in Los Angeles since the nineties, mostly as the band other people call when they need a rhythm section that can actually swing. Lost Knights is their own record, and it puts a rotating cast of vocalists over the tightest playing the group have committed to tape.

The template is deep funk with the edges left rough. "Working For Love" brings in Terin Ector and sets the tone, horns punching against a bassline that refuses to simplify. "Samson" is the instrumental showcase and the best argument for the band's reputation. Jesse Wagner of The Aggrolites turns up on "Lay Your Life Down" and drags it toward reggae without breaking the groove, while Phil Diamond's two appearances, "Burn" and "Stand By Your Brother," are the most soulful singing on the album. "Wicked Karma" and "Hazel" close things out in a heavier, almost psychedelic register.

There is a lot of retro-funk revivalism about, most of it more concerned with costume than with playing. Orgone are the real thing, and this is the record to hand people who doubt it.

Indie exclusive pressing on red vinyl, from 3 Palm Records.