Album Review: Get back in the saddle with “Maoli Music Overload”
Photo courtesy of Ineffable Music.
Three years after their last album, Maoli is back with a family-sized helping of new music to binge on, bringing a fresh spin to their already impressive sound.
“Maoli Music Overload” is a massive, nineteen-song album that effortlessly touches many of your favorite genres, all fused up and reimagined with an island vibe.
Having only been out for a few months now, the tracks have already racked up over 15 million plays on Spotify, speaking volumes for the musical direction of Maoli.
I’ve enjoyed the music these guys make for a long time now, and I’ve also enjoyed listening to the musical progression they display with each new album release. Known for their silky harmonies and an undeniable ability to add a reggae infused pulse to anything they create, Maoli Music Overload showcases just that; a generous serving of the best music they know how to make, and how they want to make it.
This round you’ll notice more than a smidge of smooth, country/western twang mixed in with bouncy island reggae and polished R&B jams when you open this box. Maoli is embracing the genre with open arms, even covering a few country classics from the likes of The Bellamy Brothers, Larry Gatlin and Brad Paisley to be a part of this collection. If you need any more clarity on how this all came about, jump to track number twelve; “Country Reggae” will break down the whole concept and keep your head nodding. I feel like this wave is picking up steam, with Cas Haley also releasing a western/reggae fusion album titled “Boots, Rock Reggae” in late July 2023, adding momentum to the genre.
Don’t let the exploration of new sound styles put you off though, there is plenty of that fan-favorite goodness layered throughout the LP. “Shoot Down” will have you locked in after the first five seconds. Multiple voices layered into one exquisite delivery, followed up with horns and keys that immediately make you feel at home. Featuring Fiji and Jamey Ferguson, the track is timeless and a beautifully composed anthem suggesting to go with the flow and just play the cards right in front of you.
I have to say, I love this album! It’s a wonderful thing to be able to enjoy the new sounds created when artists play what truly makes them happy, swirling all kinds of different styles into their own unique flavor. There is so much to explore here!
“Lemon With My Tito” is a mixed drink of a little pop and R&B with country undertones and a chorus that sticks like glue. Casey808 and STRAIGHTUPJED make guest appearances contributing their artistic flair with flowy lyrics that integrate so well with the whole essence of the recording. The story line verse-to-verse is effortless and relatable if you’ve ever been in search of love at first sight to escape with.
Maoli has definitely forged some new paths, and I think they’re doing it right. More and more bands are bending and blurring the genres of music we have grown accustomed to, and I’m content to see one more band step up and make their own recipe for success. Stream the album on whichever platform you choose and get a taste of Maoli Music Overload for yourself!
