Chicago-based Sharpshooter Soundworks, the project of producer and multi-genre instrumental artist Andrew Shabazz, channels the exhilaration of new love into “Happy Flight (Slowed),” an instrumental groover inspired by the journey to reunite with his future wife. The track reflects Shabazz’s hands-on, genre-fluid approach to composition and production. The track specifically captures “the plane journey to meet his wife during their long-distance relationship, and the flight that brought her home to stay.”
Funky bass and shimmering keys meld with steady percussion for an inviting introduction, bolstered by further synth effervescence throughout the second half of that first minute. The initial 4/4 drums shift to a more free-flowing allure with clap-friendly playfulness, as the funky bass bounces and dynamic synths continue to push forward. The synths/keys dazzle in their variety between subdued dreaminess and chirpy vibrancy, combining with the memorable rhythm section for a catchy composition.
Especially memorable percussive work shows just past midpoint, embracing a jazzy ethos that is complemented additionally by balmy guitar work thereafter. Those breezy jangles infuse with the chiming keys and now-panting percussion, solidifying an inventive yet approachable soundscape. Shabazz shows evident musicianship throughout, from the meticulous combo of grooving bass and eclectic rhythms, to the add-on of guitars and synths, the latter unveiling a final spine-tingling presence as the track comes to a satiating close. A lovely instrumental from Sharpshooter Soundworks, “Happy Flight (Slowed)” is a stirring, stylish success.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
