Tedeschi Trucks Band

Benny D, contributor

If you’ve been craving a record that captures the absolute magic of a 12-piece powerhouse firing on all cylinders, it's time to clear your schedule and turn up the volume.

 

The new Tedeschi Trucks Band album, Future Soul, just dropped. Considering I feature them constantly on my Ben Jammin’ radio show, and after the Soundwaves crew had our minds blown seeing them live twice in Boston and Gilford, NH, my expectations were sky-high. Thankfully, this record completely delivers.

The Vibe

True to form, Future Soul is exceptionally well-produced and flawlessly written. It radiates that signature, organic warmth the band is known for—honestly, it feels like an album that was specifically engineered to truly shine on vinyl. The musical landscape is a masterclass in genre-blending, serving up gritty blues rock, soft, head-bobbing funkiness, and gorgeous, soulful ballads.
 

Standout Moments

There isn't a weak spot on the tracklist, but here is what is currently hitting hardest:

• The Opener: "Crazy Cryin'" kicks the doors open right out of the gate with an amazing blend that feels like The Meters met The Allman Brothers in a bar and decided to write a song specifically for fans of both. It sets a fantastic groove for the rest of the record.

• The Highlights: "I Got You" is easily my absolute favorite track right now. The title track, "Future Soul," and the rocker "Under the Knife" are also massive standouts that you'll want to play on repeat.

• The Performances: The slower ballads on this album give Susan Tedeschi the perfect runway to let her vocals completely soar. And of course, the entire record is packed top-to-bottom with pure, brilliant moments of Derek Trucks's otherworldly guitar work.

• The Quiet Power: In addition to the gritty rock stuff, there are some really quiet moments that hit just as hard. Having spent some time playing in a band myself, I know how hard it is for a massive 12-piece ensemble to pull back and execute with that much restraint. The album closer, "Ride On," is the perfect example that a song doesn't have to be loud and in your face to be truly special.

The Verdict

Whether you've been following them for years or just appreciate impeccably crafted music, Future Soul is a must-listen. It is a brilliant addition to their catalog.

 

What the Critics are Saying

Don't just take my word for it. The music press has been absolutely raving about this release since it dropped last week:

• "Future Soul is sublime, and one of America's great bands just got a little bit greater." — Classic Rock Magazine

• "...an exercise in creating maximum accessibility without reducing the band's extraordinary musicianship." — The Arts Fuse

• "Arguably, this set of songs comprises their most fully rounded album to date... The production values are superb, not an easy accomplishment given the 12-piece ensemble." — Glide Magazine
   

Over to You: Have you had a chance to spin the new album yet? Drop your favorite tracks in the comments over on the Soundwaves Instagram!