SAULT RETURN AND IN FINE FORM WITH 'CHAPTER 1' - THEIR 13TH ALBUM. THE ELUSIVE COLLECTIVE LED BY PRODUCER INFLO UNLEASH ANOTHER MASTERPIECE THAT FEATURES CONTRIBUTIONS FROM R&B SINGER CLEO SOL, SINGER-SONGWRITER JACK PEÑATE, AND LEGENDARY HITMAKERS JIMMY JAM AND TERRY LEWIS.

IN A STATEMENT ACCOMPANYING 'CHAPTER 1', THE GROUP NOTED THAT THE ALBUM “MOVES WITH PATIENCE AND BELIEF. RHYTHM, BREATH, AND SILENCE SIT SIDE BY SIDE, CREATING A SPACE THAT IS REFLECTIVE YET CHARGED. THERE IS WARMTH AND EXPECTATION. A SENSE THAT SOMETHING IS GATHERING.”

TRACK LISTING

1. GOD, PROTECT ME FROM MY ENEMIES
2. CHAPTER 1
3. FULFIL YOUR SPIRIT
4. PROTECTOR
5. GOOD THINGS WILL COME AFTER THE PRESSURE
6. CREATE YOUR PROPHECY
7. LOVE DOES NOT EQUAL PAIN
8. LORD HAVE MERCY
9. DON’T WORRY ABOUT WHAT YOU CAN’T CONTROL
10. PUPPET

The enigmatic Sault return with album number 10. The collective, which includes bandleader and producer Inflo and singer Cleo Sol, has been dropping surprise albums since 2019. This latest release offers a thought-provoking perspective on the journey toward emotional well-being and self-discovery, built on tracks driven by locked-in basslines and infectious grooves.

STAFF COMMENTS

Barry says: Though they've become known for their mastery of rich, deep soul and classy downbeat funk numbers, Sault have been known to stray out of their lane here and there. Though those outliers were indeed skilled, I think Sault's expertise lies in their smooth grooves and soaring vocals, and '10' is exactly that. Lovely.

TRACK LISTING

T.H.
R.L
K.T.Y.W.S.
P
I.L.T.S.
L.I.
S.I.T.L.
H.T.T.R.
W.A.L.
S.O.T.H.

Sault's 11th (yes 11th) album 'Acts of Faith' sees the Inflo masterminded project once again showing us that they're the torchbearers in contemporary soul. Originally previewed back in 2023 when Sault performed their first and still only ever gig, 'Acts Of Faith' is an album that is fascinated with belief. Whilst some artists may see this as an opportunity to ruminate upon the subject with an intense and heady degree, Sault takes the subject matter and explores it as a means of celebration. A joyous and life-affirming listen, Sault never ever miss!  

STAFF COMMENTS

Barry says: If you've heard of Sault, then i'm just going to tell you that this is some more of the Sault that do flawless, soaring neo-soul and warmly evocative electronic gospel music, and if you've not then you really need to have a gander. 'Acts Of Faith' is another superb entry from one of the most beloved musical entities around.

TRACK LISTING

ACT 1: I LOOK FOR YOU
ACT 2: SET YOUR SPIRIT FREE
ACT 3: GOD WILL HELP YOU HEAL
ACT 4: HEAL
ACT 5: SOUL CLEAN
ACT 6: THE LESSON IS OVER
ACT 7: SOMEONE TO LOVE YOU
ACT 8: SIGNS
ACT 9: PRAY FOR ME

The mysteriously intriguing group, no; veiled cult-adored collective Sault return with album number six. Although we know now that the band are headed by Dean Cover aka Inflo, and count Cleo Sol, Michael Kiwanuka and Little Simz as collaborators / infrequent members; there's still very little info on the rest of the band.

We don't care though, and delving into "Air" we find the longer, double LP format as captivating as ever. Beginning with choral and orchestral interludes, it's a majestic introduction for a group that have already captured our hearts across the previous five excursions and are unhurried to deliver their latest message. Said pieces unravel into a sumptuous decadence, occupying much of side A before the first utterances of vocal slowly draw in. It's a luxurious and relaxed opening side which hints at the confidence possessed by all involved. There's no need to just jump right in with a opening radio single - we're of course gonna listen from start to finish!

But the mystery does, indeed, continue. The orchestral instrumental and choral work continues throughout - "Air" is a divine piece of enchanted garden ambience and ambrosial relaxation. There's no lyrics, no guitars, no drums. It's as if Inflo told the rest of the band to have a break whilst he enlists a full orchestra for the project.

I'm not complaining, and talk about keeping us on our toes. It's a heavenly piece of music, make no mistake; but if you were expecting them to continue their political musings, heart-worn love songs and incendiary punk-funk fun; then you'll have to resort to previous albums I'm afraid. Instead, we get strings aplenty (including some phenomenal harp work), female vocal choir and smatterings of romantic brass.

Will the public dig it? I hope so. It's adventurous, almost to the point of giving-no-fucks. But thankfully, as I keep reiterating; the music (I'd call it more of a score actually), is nothing short of breathtaking. Is Inflo looking to switch career and become a film score composer? Maybe he has been all along... Like I say, the mystery continues... 

TRACK LISTING

1 - Reality
2 - Air
3 - Heart
4 - Solar
5 - Time Is Precious
6 - June 55
7 - Luos Higher

2021’s “Sometimes I Might Be Introvert” catapulted Simz into the big leagues, crashing into the top 5 of the albums charts, collecting Mercury Music Prize, Mobo, Ivor Novello and Brit Award wins and earning her the biggest live audiences yet in the UK and Europe.

“NO THANK YOU” is yet another delicious left field turn for 29-year old Simbiatu Ajikawo. Sleek, succinct and utterly propulsive, it’s Simz’ defiantly punk rock, two fingered salute to conformity and fame, and all the expectations and restrictions that come with. Recorded with her regular collaborator Inflo, this is Simz at her most free, daring and spontaneous. In her own words: 'emotion is energy in motion. honour your truth and feelings. eradicate fear. boundaries are important.’

STAFF COMMENTS

Millie says: Returning strong with big orchestral interludes and quickfire rap from Little Simz in her new album ‘NO THANK YOU’. The album alludes to challenges faced releasing music with a tone of self-reflection but this album feels stronger than ever, with her talent shining through each track on the album despite the obstacles and healing that took place. “Gorilla” was a track that really grew on me, it reminds me of her incredible stage presence during her live performances; of being at ease like she’s always been destined to be there. It feels layered with polished production with that large Simz energy and intangible confidence. Another standout for me has to be “Heart on Fire”, you can feel the atmosphere building like a rising in your chest, it’s evident that this soulful music comes from the heart. Paired alongside the backing choir vocals, it only accentuates her unmissable dynamic sound that Simbi always nails.

TRACK LISTING

1. Angel
2. Gorilla
3. Silhouette
4. No Merci
5. X
6. Heart On Fire
7. Broken
8. Sideways
9. Who Even Cares
10. Control

Without pausing for breath and hot on the heels of their exhilarating debut album "5", the elusive and suarve, Sault return with their sophomore full length titled "7". Their signature hybrid of funk, dance, post-punk, soul and disco is front and centre once again, confidently delivered with their typical fearless nature. If "5" had you out of your seat, "7" will have you dancing in the streets with its celebratory and flamboyant nature. Spread the word, Sault are back at it! 

TRACK LISTING

Over 2:25
No Bullshit 3:47
Feel So Good 3:07
Living In America 3:21
Tip Toe 3:09
Smile And Go 2:44
Threats 4:20
Red Lights 3:03
Friends 3:57
Waterfalls 4:00