G.Love & Special Source – Superhero Brother

• 19th Aug 2008

“Superhero Brother” is the latest offering by Philadelphia four-piece G.Love and Special Sauce.

Sometimes described as alternative hip-hop, the band is more accurately viewed with their rhythm and blues influences. Comparisons have and will be made with Jack Johnson, and recording on Johnson’s Brushfire Records this is no surprise.

There’s an overall feel good vibe to this album. It’s a combination of laid back summer songs, political commentary and a harmless nod to recreational drugs. Whereas comparisons with Jack Johnson, Donavon Frankenreiter and the like will be made, some of the musical arrangements are also comparable to the best of Fun Lovin’ Criminals.

Musically the song arrangements are great with the right mix of guitars, drums, bass, liberally sprinkled with a laid back vibe throughout. “Wontcha Come Home” is probably the most direct liking to anything by Jack Johnson, but is by no means typical of the album. “Peace, Love and Happiness” delivers a positive message stating ‘a lot of people are struggling, so if you’ve got, you better start giving’. The song is littered with underhand digs at the political powers of the world. Discreet, but to the point. Title track “Superhero Brother” is a stand out track for me, demonstrating Garrett Dutton’s great guitar playing in traditional blues style. Again, political commentary is the basis of this track, but it’s delivered in a laid back way, stating that ‘Britney Spears, Jesus and the whole cast of Friends met for brunch to solve the worlds problems’.

A great mix of thought provoking lyrics, feelgood songs, and tongue in cheek observations makes for an original album that is well worth a listen. If you like the album, go through the back catalogue too. There are some gems that are waiting for you.