Bailey Judd – Precious Gold (2023)
With a reputation for honest, heartfelt and ridiculously groovy music flowing through an honest, heartfelt and ridiculously groovy artist, Bailey Judd is that goofball we all love. Using his jazz training to permeate the complexities of a jazz-pop style, he finds a balance between funky fun and intricate composition. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Precious Gold’.
At the forefront of the jazz-pop sound, iconic guitarist George Benson made his mark with obscure guitars, soothing vocals, and a bit of a sensual streak riding along the melodies. Step back Benson fans as Bailey Judd follows in those footsteps. Following his six-track EP Greetings From Coburg, Judd shifts from funkier tones and glimpses toward indie-pop with ‘Precious Gold’. Far jazzier, smoother, sexier and made for those smoky jazz clubs, this is an evolution from ‘I Might Be Crazy’, ‘Brand New Car’ and ‘Fuck You’. Interestingly, just as there is a nostalgic thwack to the melody, a modern-day edginess wafts through the soundscape.
While the steady drumbeats gracefully carry listeners along a river of sound, the well-textured melody is dominated by Judd’s guitar. I’m not saying it is utterly prominent; no, in fact, the guitar adds to the whimsical ambience. It is the obscurity of the guitar adds an off-kilter lilt to the tune. A gap breaks in the arrangement as Judd gracefully brings us a hard-hitting Benson-like guitar solo. The thing is, just as this solo is smooth and jazzy, it is forceful and powerful in its own right.
Raised on George Benson, I am a fan and while many try to imitate him it is rare to find someone that good. Bailey Judd is that good. Bringing the best of vintage jazz-pop to modern-day ears, Judd might be the George Benson of the 21st century. Warm and rich with a mellifluous flow beneath, Judd grabs you by the arm giving you a massive sonic hug with a cheeky wink.
For more from Bailey Judd, check out his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
For more fantastic funk, check out The Other Side Reviews’ Funk playlist:
