danny bastos - the DBC

Danny Bastos

The DBC
Bastos Music, LLC; 2014

3.6 out of 5

By Ethan Skelton

I like the hybrid aspect of Danny Bastos’ group and the group’s album The DBC. They blend horns with rock but don’t fall into any subgenre. They’re just a solid band with exciting brass and some keen knack for songwriting. It’s refreshing to hear a band with so much stylistic influence, chops and flow. I’ve always been a fan of eclectic bands because it deepens their musical worth. 

I can hear rock, Mexicana, funk, big band, pop alternative, Latin, Long Beach Island and the list goes on. But at no point, was there ska. Not what you might expect from a trendy band with horns. That says to me that they take their songs with pride and don’t need to cater to a sound that is so associated with their composition. Instead, they put their talent in the spotlight and string together a tangy mix of world music and modern alike.

“Ouroboros” has a good groove that starts breezy and ends with authority. The reggae pull is slight and just enough to sedate the verses with a carefree vibe. As the hi-hats begin to open we see the band take flight into a well-orchestrated and intensifying chorus. The horns show some skin and the drums sing out. That narrative plays out wonderfully culminating in a syncopated outro riff that you’ll have on repeat in no time. They lay it on thick with a half time feel so prepare to get your “stank face” on.

 “Kick Up My Feet” is a quality musician’s jam, meaning the players of the world will really get a kick out of it. Each instrument takes its turn to shine and the overall picture is vivid with relaxed groove, sharp pocket and good times.

“Underwater” leaves a little to be desired, but that’s only because it’s surrounded by great and individually unique soundscapes. It’s a little sublime wrapped up in the restrained hands of a powerhouse. Let’s move toward “ushm81419911 – Songo.” This track has great movement and a fantastic line-up of hits, cues, fills, rhythmic colors and respect for the pulse. If you don’t want to dance to this then we’re not friends.

Give these guys a listen.

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