Khruangbin - Late Night Tales (2LP)

LateNightTales is the fourth studio album by the Texas-based psychedelic funk trio Khruangbin. Released on December 4, 2020, this album marks the band's contribution to the renowned LateNightTales series, which features artists curating a compilation of their favorite tracks. Known for their unique blend of global influences, Khruangbin takes listeners on a captivating sonic journey through their eclectic musical tastes.

With LateNightTales, Khruangbin showcases their impeccable taste and ability to seamlessly blend various genres and eras. The album opens with the band's own cover of Kool & The Gang's "Summer Madness," setting the tone for the laid-back and dreamy atmosphere that permeates the entire compilation. The track perfectly captures Khruangbin's signature sound, with its languid guitar riffs and hypnotic basslines.

Throughout the album, Khruangbin effortlessly transitions between different musical styles, showcasing their diverse influences. From the soulful funk of Carlos Santana's "Samba Pa Ti" to the ethereal beauty of Haruomi Hosono's "Sports Men," the band's selections create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Each track feels carefully chosen, contributing to the overall mood and flow of the album.

LateNightTales also features some unexpected gems, such as the hauntingly beautiful "With My Whole Heart" by Selda, a Turkish folk singer. This track adds a touch of mystique to the compilation, showcasing Khruangbin's willingness to explore lesser-known artists and genres. The inclusion of these hidden treasures further enhances the album's appeal and demonstrates the band's dedication to sharing their musical discoveries with their audience.

One of the standout tracks on the album is the band's collaboration with Leon Bridges on a cover of the classic soul song "Texas Sun." This collaboration perfectly encapsulates the essence of Khruangbin's sound, blending Bridges' soulful vocals with the band's signature grooves. The result is a mesmerizing and soul-stirring rendition that showcases the band's ability to breathe new life into familiar tunes.

LateNightTales also features a number of instrumental tracks, allowing Khruangbin's musicianship to shine. Tracks like "Deluxe" by Harmonia and "Summer Madness" by Kool & The Gang highlight the band's exceptional skills as instrumentalists, with their intricate guitar work and tight rhythm section. These tracks serve as a reminder of Khruangbin's ability to create captivating music without relying on vocals.

In terms of production, LateNightTales is a testament to Khruangbin's attention to detail. The album is expertly mixed, with each track seamlessly flowing into the next. The band's meticulous approach to production ensures that every instrument and sound is given its rightful place in the mix, resulting in a rich and immersive listening experience.

Overall, LateNightTales is a testament to Khruangbin's musical prowess and their ability to curate a captivating compilation. The album showcases the band's diverse influences and their unique ability to blend different genres and eras seamlessly. Whether you're a longtime fan of Khruangbin or new to their music, LateNightTales is a must-listen for anyone looking for a mesmerizing and immersive sonic experience.