Full Review

Big Boss Man, Das Freak Review

Big Boss Man’s latest single, “Das Freak,” shines as a fun number reflecting the band’s deep-rooted expertise in merging ’60s R&B, soul, Latin, funk, and bongo-Hammond-fuzz. Since their formation in 1998, Big Boss Man has swirled the flavors of multiple genres to create their musical fusion, distinguishing themselves within the music scene by successfully blending a wide array of sounds. Their significant contributions to live music, spanning concerts and festivals worldwide, and their music’s presence in films, television, and advertising have solidified their influence and reach.

“Das Freak,” extracted from the anticipated album Bossin’ Around, is a vibrant exemplar of Big Boss Man’s nuanced sound palette. Specially tailored for the 45rpm format, this track is an electrifying call to the dance floor, weaving together the essence of past and present dance music traditions. Recorded at Beat Mountain Studios with the band at the helm of production, and mastered with precision by Graham Semark, the track’s sonic quality and dynamism are ensured to captivate and engage listeners.

The band’s core lineup—Nasser Bouzida, Trevor Harding, Badger Burgess, and Desmond Rogers—is enriched by the exceptional talents of guest musicians Frank Grillo on the trumpet and Simon Curry on the saxophone and flute. From its inception, “Das Freak” envelops listeners in a rich atmosphere, with Grillo’s trumpet and Curry’s flute and saxophone crafting an entrancing riff over the dance floor-ready beat, setting a lush stage for the track’s progression.

What follows is a compelling transition into a vibrant disco-meets-EDM groove, powered by a robust bassline that injects a deep funk into the track’s core. The wah-wah guitar layers in an additional funk element, intertwining with the rhythmic foundation to produce a melody that resonates with disco and soul influences. The addition of flute and saxophone fills introduces a colorful jazz flair and brings an animated and energetic feel to the track, invigorating it with a sense of playfulness and vitality.

The instrumental solo showcases Big Boss Man’s musical skills. The keyboard solo dives into the disco groove, perfectly complemented by Grillo’s reverb-enhanced trumpet solo that adds texture and depth. Curry’s saxophone and flute contributions further invigorate the track, infusing it with a captivating, lively spirit while never losing the dance vibe.

“Das Freak” is a musical journey that honors the legacy of disco while embracing the contemporary pulse of house music. It embodies Big Boss Man’s commitment to producing ‘proper’ music that bridges genres and unites listeners in celebration. As a quintessential addition to any music collection, “Das Freak” is set to become a beloved favorite, heralding the arrival of warm weather and the collective rhythm of global festivities, all powered by Big Boss Man’s timeless and innovative sonic explorations. That’s the short of it!