Who Hit Willie - Even the Desert Will Bloom

​Who Hit Willie

Even the Desert Will Bloom
​self-released; 2023

4.1 out of 5 - TOP ALBUM

By My Nguyen
​

Who Hit Willie is a band based in Central Florida. The band consists of Robin Lewis (vocals, guitar, programming), Steve Bailey (bass, vocals), and Mr. Bill Windbourne (sax). Their sound is an eclectic mix of reggae, indie, jazz, pop, and rock. On their latest release, "Even the Desert Will Bloom," their first new album in seven years, the band definitely shows their stuff with funky bass and guitars, and some wild tunes from the sax. In the mix are both Lewis's and Bailey's vocals, which add another dynamic dimension to the overall sound. The band shows that they still have it with jazzy, funky tunes that sound like nothing I've ever heard before.

"Even the Desert Will Bloom" opens with the title track, which starts off with a very lounge and sauntering groove. I immediately got some funk along with the lounge vibe. Next, the funky beats transition into reggae. I found the band's sound really interesting here. The male lead vocals sound dreamy with tons of attached reverb. I love this atmospheric and ambient approach. The saxophone definitely offers something unique to the table. More sauntering vibes come from the guitars on "Fly Away." Then the sax enters, adding an energetic feel. The male lead vocals bring a searing sound. The keys sound very cool here and offer a nice touch. I enjoy this pop-driven song that reminds me of a lot of music from the '70s. The retro sound is really great. Off to a jaunty beat, the sax and other instrumentals join in for a happening vibe on "Resurrection." Once the vocals enter, I immediately get some '70s vibes. The acoustic guitar joins in, creating a moving vibe. The sax offers something truly original here for a captivating sound.

More sax arrives, and the cool, smooth instrumentals in the background create a jazzy/lounge feel on "Gone, Gone, Gone." I detect a dash of funk in the mix, which I think is really cool. The vocals sizzle with a compelling vibe, which I enjoy. Organs light up the sounds on "Lighter Than Air," and the saxophone joins in for a compelling vibe. The vocals reel you in with their dynamic vibe. Once again, the band compels you to listen. More sax and simmering instrumentals join the melee on "Forever Monday." I love the funk-driven vibes from the keys here. This proves to be an eccentric and wacky sounding rock track. It truly makes for a unique listen.

On "Missing You," electrifying guitar riffs sound out alongside some organ. The funky tunes make for a great sound. It certainly helps that the sax riffs aren't far behind, building into a great sound. The vocals sound smooth and alluring, and I can't get enough of it. Towards "Somewhere," synths come in for an atmospheric sound. Next, the sax accompanies the vibes for a moving display of sounds. This proves to be another flavorful track filled with smooth vibes. The male lead vocals really belt out the lyrics on "Livin' In A Ghost Town (Unplugged)" with feeling. His vocals are alone at first, being supported by sparse acoustic guitar. Then the drum machine enters along with the sax. There's a fiery Latin vibe to this track that I like. I'm reminded of Sublime and Santana all at once. It's an exciting way to end the album.

Right from the start, I love the revved energy coming from the band. The band throws their all into the music, and you can tell that there's no holding back. The fun-loving tunes on this album are a blast from beginning to end. All in all, I couldn't get enough of it, and I'm sure you'll feel the same way too!

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