Gainesville, Florida, is home to many famous musicians, including Tom Gabel, Stephen Stills and Tom Petty. It is also home to Travis Atria, one of the founders of the psychedelic rock band Morningbell, and Collin Whitlock. The two paired together to form The Slims, their homage to those who have influenced them in soul and Motown. Their latest, Slowpoke, begins with “Only A Part, Not The Whole.” As the bass lays high in the mix, the percussion helps set the rhythm. The musical elements on this track showcase their influences from genres like psychedelic rock, pop and soul. “Ain’t No Rush” reminds me of something that would have come off The Black Keys album, Brothers. The guitar work is best on this cut with a heavily melodic solo providing a strong finish.
“Oh My God, Yes I Do” is the catchiest song on the LP and displays the band’s ability to perform upbeat music along with their trademark slow jam fashion. “Hymnal” and “Ashes Under The Rug” best exemplify their ability to perform slow, emotional jams. Cymbal/snare beats provide a backbone to the tracks as the vocals highlight the soulfulness they create. Percussion kicks off “Don’t Let Me Up” and continues the same beat throughout. Multiple vocals can be heard on this number as well as on “Tastemaker.” “She’s Talking A Blue Streak Now, Jack” features the use of horns, keys and fantastic instrumentation. “Bliss” is an instrumental song that ends the album on a strong note.
Atria and Whitlock pour their heart and soul into their work to create nine songs that follow a simple format: to pay tribute. The Slims started with their shared love for Motown and soul, and will continue with their own unique take on those genres.
In A Word: Gripping
