Sequels have a bad reputation. They’re often released as a desperate attempt to cash in on the success of the first creative endeavour, yet they typically pale in comparison to the original. For every The Godfather Part II there’s a dozen disasters like Jaws: The Revenge or Speed 2: Cruise Control. So it’s only natural to approach Lab Experiments Vol. 2 with a healthy degree of scepticism. Thankfully Melbourne’s favourite funksters Cookin’ on 3 Burners deliver the goods.
It bursts out of the gates with a joyous explosion of Hammond organ chords with the instrumental single “The Jump Off.” The flip side of that double A-side, “Warning,” comes next, with guest vocalist Kait delivering plenty of sass. “Howler” surprises, a darkly dramatic instrumental which could serve as the soundtrack to your Halloween parties. It’s an unexpected detour, but I appreciate that Cookin’ on 3 Burners keeps us on our toes. “Force of Nature” has such a great Motown groove, with Fallon Williams’ gritty yet soulful lead vocals backed by a choir of gospel angels. Longtime collaborator Kylie Auldist is back with the Burners for the soulful “One of the Ones.” Magic always happens when these guys get together, and this track is no exception. Closing number “Garden of Freedom” is made so much sweeter with the addition of The Meltdown’s cooler than cool frontman Simon Burke.
Cookin’ on 3 Burners have such an incredible sound, which builds on soul and funk traditions and makes them feel so fresh. But it’s those collaborations that really make Lab Experiments Vol. 2 so special. Rubbing shoulders with the right people elevates their sound, ensuring Lab Experiments Vol. 2 is a sequel worth spending your money on.
Lab Experiments Vol. 2 is released today.
Image used with permission from This Much Talent