Red Revel – 808 Airfreight (2021)
If Marvin Gaye were to have a lovechild with The Temptations, the chances are Red Revel would be it. Fusing elements of funk, jazz and a dash of rock and roll, the Australian quartet have a rather unique sound. While the band is already a well-known name in Sydney, they are reaching international audiences with their coverage on Less Than 1000 Followers, Edgar Allan Poets and Roadie Music (to name a few). The latest addition to their well-received discography is ‘808 Airfreight’.
Following their dynamic single ‘Funky Lemon’, Red Revel release the “…sleazy jazz-funk” single ‘808 Airfreight’. Rather inebriated from tequila shots, ‘808 Airfreight’ was penned during the early morning hours before departing on a flight from Sydney airport. The aim of this alcohol-influenced single was to “…describe an individual’s strange sense of anonymity whilst travelling through airports” – something many of us experience when flying from one place to another. That’s unless you’re on a private jet, there’s no anonymity with that or at least I don’t think there is.
Alright, back to the review.
Similar to ‘Funky Lemon’, Red Revel ooze groovy vibes with their infectious sounds. While the track might be considered guitar-driven, each of the instruments is offered prominence and come together in a united song. What adds the real “funkiness” to ‘808 Airfreight’ is possibly the incorporation of a saxophone in the single. Not only does it bring a toe-tapping charm to the track, but it makes you sway to the music with a silly smile on your face. Husky with a slight gruffness, the vocals are a perfect fit for the groovy melody.
Growing up with the sounds of George Benson, Chicago and The Temptations, I am a fan of any funk-influenced artist, so it makes sense that I adore Red Revel. A refreshing spark in a dull indie music industry, Red Revel might be the revolution of funk music in the 21st Century.
For more from Red Revel check out their official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
